DT Pakistan No. 5, 2023

Alvi sees AI pivotal role in healthcare sector / London Dentistry Show promises exciting events for professionals / News

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Published in Pakistan

pk.dental-tribune.com

September-October 2023 - Issue No. 05 Vol.10

2,555 GRADUATES, 610
POSTGRADS AWARDED
DEGREES AT LUMHS
CONVOCATION

COLGATE PAKISTAN’S
ORAL HEALTH WEEKS –
A NATIONWIDE DRIVE
FOR BRIGHTER SMILES

Recently, Liaquat University of
Medical and Health Sciences
celebrated its 19th convocation.

Maintaining good oral health is
a fundamental aspect of overall
well-being and quality of life.

Page 02

INTERVIEW
Dentists need to have
patient-centred approach:
Dr Qurat ul Ain Malik.

Page 04

Page 09

Alvi sees AI pivotal role in healthcare sector
DT Pakistan Report
LAHORE: President Dr Arif Alvi
highlighted the signiﬁcance of
artiﬁcial intelligence (AI) within
the healthcare sector, aiming to
enhance the provision of better
medical services to the public.
During his address at the
Instacare Future Health Forum
2023 held at a local hotel, he
said AI holds immense promise
for advancements in health and
medicine, envisaging a future
where medical graduates could
leverage AI for patient treatments.
The president pointed out
that doctors no longer need
to rely solely on their memory,
as extensive information can
now be stored and accessed
through mobile phones and
computers. He cited the example
of Pakistan’s eﬀective utilisation
of available data during the
COVID-19 pandemic, which

President of Islamic Republic of pakistan, Dr Arif Alvi addressing brfore the audince at the “Instacare Future Health Forum 2023”.
–Photo: DT Pakistan

resulted in saving numerous lives.
Notably, the country experienced
a lower COVID-19 mortality
rate compared to neighboring
nations.
Emphasising the availability
of abundant data in Pakistan, he
stressed the pivotal role of AI in
formulating precise questions to
extract accurate answers.
He
also
underlined
the
democratisation of knowledge,
asserting that anyone can access

information freely, making control
over it nearly impossible.
The president also highlighted
the Islamic principle of promoting
community welfare and betterment
through state actions. He drew
parallels
between
scientiﬁc
advancements and the ease they
bring to people’s lives, suggesting
that AI should similarly serve to
facilitate human well-being.
In a preceding segment, the
president conferred awards upon

individuals and institutions that
have contributed technological
and
AI-driven
innovations
to the healthcare domain.
Dr Javed Akram, Punjab’s Minister
for Health and Social Welfare, also
addressed the attendees.
The forum saw the attendance
of First Lady Begum Samina Alvi
and a substantial gathering of
healthcare professionals, reﬂecting
its signiﬁcance for the medical
community.

London Dentistry Show promises exciting events for professionals
DT Web Desk
The Digital Dentistry Theatre, conducted by
the International Digital Dental Academy
(IDDA) President, Prof. Adam Nulty will
be the hallmark of the two-day Dentistry
Show 2023, to be held in London on 6
and 7 October, showcasing cutting-edge
technologies that are transforming patient
care and revolutionizing the ﬁeld of digital
dentistry.
The objective of the Digital Dentistry
Theatre is to provide high-quality education,

Photo: Organiser’s oﬃcial release

explore current and future trends, oﬀer
practical implementations, and foster
engagement among attendees.
The lineup of speakers includes esteemed

ﬁgures in digital dentistry who will share their
expertise in various sessions of the show.
Highlighted sessions include ‘A Dental
Lab Perspective Regarding Bases on Implant
Abutments’ by Magdalena Frackiewicz,
‘Digital Smile Design Innovations &
Workﬂows’ by Quintus Van Tonder, ‘Facially
Driven Smile Concepts in Implantology’
by Chris Lefkaditis, ‘Restoratively Driven
Implantology’ by Patrik Zachrisson, and
‘Occlusion Evolution’ by Riaz Yar.
Prof. Nulty will also speak on the inﬂuence
Continued on Page 11

[2] => DTI September-October 2023 Corrected.indd

NEWS
DENTAL TRIBUNE | PAKISTAN EDITION | SEP-OCT 2023

2,555 graduates, 610 postgrads awarded
degrees at LUMHS 19th convocation
DT Pakistan Report
JAMSHORO: Recently, Liaquat
University of Medical and Health
Sciences (LUMHS) celebrated its
19th convocation, recognising the
exceptional
accomplishments
of 2,555 graduates and 610
postgraduates on the university
campus in Jamshoro.
Sindh Minister for Universities
and Boards, Ismail Rahu, the chief
guest, in his address congratulated
all the degree recipients and
emphasised the crucial role of
literature and education in society.
During the welcome address,
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Ikram Din
Ujjan expressed immense pride
in the accomplishments of the
graduates and postgraduates, as
they embark on a new journey to
serve humanity.
The
convocation
awarded
degrees and diplomas to a total
of 3,165 Liaquatians, including
1,381 MBBS graduates, 383
BDS graduates, 220 Doctors
of Physiotherapy, 184 Doctors
of Pharmacy, 154 Biomedical
Engineers, 233 Bachelor’s in
Nursing graduates, and 610
postgraduates in various medical
ﬁelds, including Dentistry, Public
Health, and Basic Medical Sciences.
Prof. Ujjan expressed hope that
the graduates and specialists
would follow in the footsteps
of their predecessors, tirelessly
working to improve the health
status of people in the region and
the country, thereby upholding the
reputation of their alma mater and
the medical profession. He lauded
the university’s commitment to
providing exceptional healthcare

Publisher and Chief Executive Oﬃcer
Torsten R. Oemus
Chief Content Oﬃcer
Claudia Duschek

Sindh Minister for Universities and Boards, Ismail Rahu, and Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr Ikram
Din Ujjan, presenting degrees to accomplished students. –Photo: DT Pakistan

facilities and the dedication of the
faculty members, especially during
the challenging period of the
COVID-19 pandemic.
Liaquat University Hospital in
Hyderabad and Jamshoro, along
with the Diagnostic and Research
Laboratory, were acknowledged
for their eﬀorts in caring for critical
patients and oﬀering standardised
services to Covid-19 patients
across the province.
The VC also shared the
university’s ongoing projects
sponsored by the Higher Education
Commission (HEC), including the
establishment of the Research
Institute of Endocrinology and
Diabetes, Examination Center,
and extensions of the Institute
of Ophthalmology and Medical
Research Center. These initiatives
aim to beneﬁt students, patients,
and the community at large.
To address the need for skilled
technical staﬀ in government
hospitals, Prof. Ujjan highlighted
the establishment of a College of
Technology, providing training
in MRI, CT scan, and ultrasound
operations.
Moreover,
the
transformation of Civil Hospital
Kotri into Bilawal Medical College

Hospital represents a signiﬁcant
milestone in delivering highquality healthcare services to the
community.
The
VC
announced
the
establishment of LUMHS Trauma
Center in Hyderabad, a facility
that will greatly beneﬁt patients
requiring specialised care. An
Advanced Dental Care Center has
also been set up in Hyderabad to
oﬀer dental treatment at subsidised
rates, while also providing training
to postgraduate students in
dentistry.
Prof. Ujjan concluded by
stressing the importance of
literacy,
dedicated
citizens,
good governance, and highquality graduates in fostering
socioeconomic
growth.
He
encouraged the graduates and
postgraduates to demonstrate
their skills, contribute to the
competitive job market, and work
towards improving the prevailing
socioeconomic conditions. The 19th
convocation ceremony exempliﬁed
LUMHS’s unwavering commitment
to excellence in education and
healthcare, producing highly
skilled professionals in the medical
and health sciences ﬁelds.

President Alvi offers condolences to late Dr Talha’s family
DT Pakistan Report

IMPRINT
INTERNATIONAL
HEADQUARTERS

Siddiqui over his sudden and
untimely death and oﬀered
KARACHI: President Dr Arif
Fateha for the departed soul.
Alvi and his son Dr Awab Alvi
Dr Alvi paid rich tribute
paid a visit to the residence
to late Dr Siddiqui for his
of late Dr Talha M Siddiqui,
contribution to the ﬁeld of
Principal of Baqai Dental
dental education and services
President Dr. Arif Alvi and his son Dr. Awab Alvi
College, who suddenly passed oﬀering heartfelt condolences and reciting Fateha for the dental fraternity, and
away recently, to condole his in memory of the late Dr. Talha M. Siddiqui, with the prayed that the departed soul
grieving family. –Photo: DT Pakistan`
sad demise.
may rest in eternal peace and
Dr Arif Alvi expressed his profound grief in Allah Almighty grant courage and patience to the
his meeting with the bereaved family of late Dr bereaved family to bear this irreparable loss.

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hashim@dental-tribune.com.pk
Editor Clinical Research
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Editor - Online
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[3] => DTI September-October 2023 Corrected.indd

[4] => DTI September-October 2023 Corrected.indd

4

IDA holds second
session of oral
surgery workshop
KARACHI: Irfans Dental Academy (IDA)
successfully hosted the second session
of a one-day hands-on workshop titled
“Advanced Oral Surgery Techniques
(Level-II),” building upon the initial session
held in June 2023.
The workshop, with a primary objective
of providing the participants with
comprehensive insights into crucial
oral surgery procedures, was led by Dr
Daud Sultan, a distinguished oral and
maxillofacial surgeon and implantologist,
who currently serves as an assistant
professor at DIKIOHS.

Attendees engrossed in the lecture during the
‘Advanced Oral Surgery Techniques (Level-II)’
workshop. –Photo: DT Pakistan

The event was an engaging combination
of informative lectures and interactive
hands-on sessions. A diverse group of
participants representing various dental
institutions and private clinics from the
city, who took part in the workshop,
commended Dr Daud’s expertise and
unwavering commitment to education.
The workshop focused on topics such as
delicate soft tissue manipulation, strategic
ﬂap designs, proﬁcient suturing methods,
socket preservation, precise surgical
extractions, and both labial and lingual
frenectomies. The practical exercises
provided participants with hands-on
experience, as they individually performed
procedures on goat mandibles.
Upon conclusion, the participants
were presented with certiﬁcates of
attendance as a testament to their active
engagement. Dr Daud was honoured
with an appreciation shield, presented by
Dr Umer Bin Irfan, CEO of IDA, and Dr Adil
Bin Irfan, MD of the academy, in recognition
of his exceptional contribution.
Looking ahead, IDA has exciting
plans for its upcoming workshop titled
“Biomimetic Posterior Restoration and
Anterior Layering Technique,” scheduled
for 3 September, 2023. Renowned expert
Dr Jazib Memon, a restorative specialist
who holds an FCPS in operative and
endodontics and serves on the faculty at
LUMHS Hyderabad, will be leading this
insightful session. –PR

NEWS
DENTAL TRIBUNE | PAKISTAN EDITION | SEP-OCT 2023

Colgate Pakistan’s Oral
Health Weeks – A nationwide
drive for brighter smiles
DT Pakistan Report
KARACHI: Maintaining good
oral health is a fundamental
aspect of overall well-being
and quality of life. Dr. Ayyaz
Ali Khan, the esteemed
founding President of the
International Association of
Dental Sciences & Research
(IADSR) and Editor in Chief
of the Journal of Pakistan
Dental Association (JPDA),
highlighted the importance
of comprehensive oral care
during a press conference
for the “Keeping Pakistan
Smiling” Oral Health Weeks
2023, being marked by
Colgate Pakistan. With a
distinguished
career
in
dentistry, Dr Ayyaz Ali Khan
is a prominent advocate for
comprehensive oral care and
awareness.
Dr Khan emphasised the
urgent need to address global
oral health issues. He noted
that historically, oral health
has been overlooked in the
context of global health.
However, the substantial
increase in oral diseases
can be addressed through
cost-eﬀective measures, as
outlined in a recent report.
He referenced a World
Health Organization (WHO)
report from the previous
year, revealing a staggering
1 billion rise in global oral
disease cases over the past
three decades. This rise
underscores a signiﬁcant gap
in access to prevention and
treatment of oral ailments.
Drawing parallels with
noncommunicable diseases
like cancer, cardiovascular
diseases,
diabetes,
and
mental disorders, Dr Khan
pointed out that oral health
inequalities mirror those of
these conditions. Common
risk factors such as excessive
sugar consumption, various
forms of tobacco use, and
harmful alcohol consumption
contribute to the ongoing

in Pakistan use 85g of
toothpaste per person, which
is lower compared to the
global average. She provided
details
about
Colgate’s
execution plan, explaining
how the upcoming campaign
will unfold.
Prof. Dr. Ayyaz Ali Khan being
Central to the initiative
honored with a prestigious shield by
is the collection of visitor
Omer Qadri, Director of Marketing at
Colgate-Palmolive Pakistan. –Photos: data by volunteers at dental
DT Pakistan
health camps. This data will
contribute to research and
global oral health crisis, he help spread awareness about
added.
oral hygiene. The “Keeping
Omer
Qadri,
director Pakistan
Smiling”
Oral
marketing Colgate-Palmolive Health Weeks 2023, hosted
Pakistan, highlighted the by Colgate Pakistan. This
organisation’s achievements campaign spans 21 cities and
in the realm of oral health. He towns in Pakistan, covering
explained that the “Keeping over 750 locations, including
Pakistan Smiling” Oral Health institutions,
hospitals,
Weeks 2023 is an initiative by clinics, and schools. It serves
Colgate Pakistan to promote as evidence of Colgate’s
oral health awareness and unwavering
commitment
provide free dental check-ups to promoting better oral
across 21 cities and towns in hygiene.
Pakistan. Taking place from 28
With a rich legacy of 35 years
August to 21 September 2023, in Pakistan, Colgate Pakistan
this campaign underscores remains dedicated to the
Colgate’s commitment to mission of “Keeping Pakistan
enhancing
oral
hygiene Smiling.”
By
providing
across all segments of society. essential knowledge about
“Colgate’s dedication to maintaining oral health,
oﬀering free oral care to Colgate envisions a future
millions of individuals has where the nation’s smiles
resulted in positive outcomes are not only brighter and
from their previous mass- healthier but also free from
oriented initiatives,” stated cavities, radiating conﬁdence
Mr Qadri.
and well-being.
Anum Sadik, Senior Brand
The Oral Health Weeks go
Manager
Marketing
at beyond celebrating vibrant
Colgate-Palmolive, sharing smiles; they symbolise the
important insights during vital role that oral hygiene
the press event revealed plays in the overall well-being
that on average, individuals of every individual.

[5] => DTI September-October 2023 Corrected.indd

[6] => DTI September-October 2023 Corrected.indd

NEWS

DENTAL TRIBUNE | PAKISTAN EDITION | SEP-OCT 2023

PIMA Faisalabad holds moot on
mandibular molar surgery
DT Pakistan Report
FAISALABAD: A seminar focusing on
the Surgical Management of Impacted
Mandibular Molars was held by Pakistan
Islamic
Medical
Association
(PIMA)
Faisalabad, in collaboration with Prof. Arshad
Malik from HBS Dental College Islamabad,
drawing a diverse audience including faculty
members, postgraduate students, and private
practitioners.
The primary objective of the seminar was
to oﬀer a comprehensive understanding of
the intricacies involved in surgical procedures
related to impacted mandibular molars.
The seminar was led by Prof. Arshad Malik,
Dean of HBS Dental College Islamabad.
It provided the attendees with an
opportunity to witness a comprehensive
presentation of practical aspects of these
A gathering of dedicated dental professionals at a seminar, delving into the art of Surgical Management of Impacted
surgical techniques. The seminar also featured Mandibular Molars by PIMA. –Photos: DT Pakistan
a live demonstration of patient procedures,
meticulously captured in video presentations
Dr. Arshad highlighted PIMA Faisalabad’s dental professionals and students continuous
to provide an immersive learning experience dedication to advancing dental education learning and professional development
to attendees.
and fostering excellence in oral healthcare. opportunities.
The seminar was well-attended by dental Through collaborative initiatives and
Seminar’s success was attributed to the
professionals from various institutions, seminars, PIMA Faisalabad strives to oﬀer organizing committee, particularly Dr Iqbal
including representatives from
and Dr Saad, who displayed
Punjab Medical College and
exceptional dedication and eﬀort
Medina Dental Colleges.
in ensuring the seamless execution
The session, which spanned
of the event.
three hours, facilitated an inThe seminar not only enhanced
depth exploration of the subject
participants’
knowledge
and
matter. Prof. Malik’s engaging
expertise
but
also
forged
presentations,
covering
both
stronger bonds within the dental
theoretical foundations and practical
community in Faisalabad and
applications of surgical procedures
beyond.
for impacted mandibular molars,
Prof. Malik was lauded for his
held the attendees’ attention. The
expertise and contributions to oral
incorporation of patient procedure
healthcare education and research,
videos ensured a thorough grasp Prof. Dr Arshad Malik being awarded a shield by Dr Iqbal, with Dr Saad adding to promoting dental education and
the moment's signiﬁcance.
of the discussed techniques.
practices in Pakistan.

Biostatistics workshop held at AIDM
Photo: DT Pakistan
KARACHI: The Altamash Institute
of Dental Medicine (AIDM) hosted
an enlightening workshop on
fundamentals of biostatistics, led by
Dr Sohail Lakhani, a distinguished
senior teacher in Community
Health Sciences at the Aga Khan
University Hospital Karachi, for
doctors interested in research.
This workshop explored practical
application of STATA, a statistical
software known for its role in
shaping descriptive and inferential
statistics in the ﬁeld of medicine A group photograph of lecturers, along with principal Prof. Dr Hasnain Sarkani and
Dr Beenish Fatima. –Photo: DT Pakistan
and dentistry.

The event was organised by
the
Research
Development
and Review Cell, under the
supervision of Prof. Naseer
Ahmed,
from
AIDM
and
attended by the Dean and CPSP
Counsellor, Prof. Ambreen Afzal
and Principal Prof. Hasnain
Sarkani.
Senior faculty members and
postgraduate trainees of FCPS
part II also actively participated in
the workshop managed by AIDM
Administrator Dr Resham Nadeem
and Dr Beenish Fatima. –PR

[7] => DTI September-October 2023 Corrected.indd

[8] => DTI September-October 2023 Corrected.indd

NEWS

8

DENTAL TRIBUNE | PAKISTAN EDITION | SEP-OCT 2023

BLOG

Oral health
advantages of
invisible braces
By Dr Raminay Farooqi
Misaligned teeth can have a negative impact
on our oral health if left untreated, hindering
their ability to perform essential functions.
Seeking the expertise of an orthodontist is
crucial for addressing crooked or misaligned
teeth, not only for aesthetic reasons but also
to ensure optimal oral health.
Invisible braces present a transparent
alternative to conventional metal braces,
providing a discreet and comfortable
solution for straightening teeth. Similar to
traditional metal braces, clear braces exert
controlled pressure on the teeth, gradually
guiding them into their correct alignment
while maintaining a subtle appearance.
Most instances of crooked teeth can be
eﬀectively corrected using invisible braces.
Only an orthodontist can evaluate the case
and determine the suitability of invisible
braces for the patient. These clear braces
are an excellent choice for individuals
who are conscious of their appearance, as
they function like traditional braces while
remaining inconspicuous.
Various types of discreet braces are
available, including ceramic braces, lingual
braces, and clear aligners. Ceramic braces
resemble traditional braces in function, but
the brackets are tooth-coloured instead of
metal, making them less noticeable and
appealing to those who prioritise aesthetics.
Lingual braces are the most specialised and
uncommon option, necessitating speciﬁc
orthodontic expertise. Positioned discreetly
behind the teeth, they create the illusion of
invisibility.
Clear aligners consist of a series of
transparent, removable trays that are
custom-ﬁtted to the teeth. The quantity of
aligners required depends on the speciﬁc
orthodontic issues. Like traditional braces,
clear aligners apply gradual force to guide
tooth movement, without the use of wires
and brackets.
The selection of invisible braces hinges
on factors such as patient preference,
aﬀordability, the complexity of the case,
and the practitioner’s proﬁciency. It also
relies on the personalised treatment plan
devised by the orthodontist, which takes
into account individual conditions, needs,
goals, and preferences.
Costs of the braces vary among patients;
for mild cases, clear aligners might prove
more cost-eﬀective than conventional
visible braces. Lingual braces often carry a
higher cost due to increased laboratory fees
and adjustment appointments.

Study explores link between
tooth brushing, heart diseases
DT Web Desk
In a recent publication in the Scientific
Reports journal, researchers conducted a
study to explore the connection between
tooth-brushing habits and the risk of
cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in individuals
aged 20 years or older.
This study, carried out at Osaka University
Hospital in Japan, provides valuable insights
into the signiﬁcance of consistent dental
hygiene practices in preventing CVDs.

events such as heart failure, arrhythmia,
myocardial infarction, angina pectoris, and
valvular and aortic diseases requiring surgery.
The study ﬁndings demonstrated that the
individuals in the ‘MN’ and ‘Night’ groups
exhibited signiﬁcantly higher survival rates
compared to those in the ‘None Group’.
Additionally, dental indicators varied among
the groups, with the MN group having the
highest number of participants with deep
dental pocket depths and increased tooth
mobility.
Create by DT Pakistan

While previous research has emphasised the
importance of oral care in managing various
health conditions, including respiratory,
gastrointestinal, and cardiovascular diseases,
these studies have mainly focused on tooth
brushing in relation to dental health without
delving into its impact on systemic diseases
such as CVDs.
The study involved 1,675 participants, who
either visited the hospital’s Unit of Dentistry
for dental treatment, perioperative oral care,
and infection screening or were hospitalised
for examination, surgery, or treatment.
Based on their tooth-brushing habits,
the participants were categorised into four
groups: ‘Group MN’ members brushed their
teeth twice daily (morning and night), those
in ‘Group Night’ brushed their teeth only at
night, ‘Group M’ brushed their teeth only in
the morning, and ‘Group’ None’ participants
did not brush their teeth at all.
The researchers analysed various factors,
including age, gender, smoking history, followup results, as well as reviewed the dental
and medical records of all participants. They
evaluated the occurrence of cardiovascular

Interestingly, the researchers noted
that many individuals who neglected
tooth brushing at night cited alcohol
consumption as a reason for their omission.
Furthermore, factors such as learned habits
from childhood, lifestyle choices, regional
variations, and a general lack of interest in
dental hygiene contributed to the neglect of
nighttime tooth brushing.
The study emphasised the importance of
tooth brushing both in the morning and at
night. While breakfast and lunch increase
the risk of oral deposits, brushing only in the
morning is insuﬃcient for maintaining good
oral hygiene. Brushing before bed is crucial in
reducing the buildup of oral bacteria during
sleep, which is associated with reduced
salivary ﬂow.
Overall, the ﬁndings of this study
underscore the critical role of regular tooth
brushing in preventing cardiovascular
diseases. While brushing teeth before
breakfast is necessary, the habit of
brushing before bed is even more vital in
maintaining oral health and reducing the
risk of CVDs.

[9] => DTI September-October 2023 Corrected.indd

INTERVIEW

DENTAL TRIBUNE | PAKISTAN EDITION | SEP-OCT 2023

Dentists need to have patient-centred approach
Dr Qurat ul Ain Malik

n the world of dental care and oral well-being, certain
individuals radiate eminence and expertise.
Dr Qurat ul Ain Malik, a distinguished board-certified
((by the American Board of Periodontology) periodontist and implant
s
specialist,
stands as a shining example of dedication in dentistry.
Graduating from Fatima Jinnah Dental College in Karachi and
h
holding
a DDS degree from New York University, her journey to
su
success
is marked by unrelenting commitment.
Dr Malik’s pursuit of excellence led her to specialise in periodontology
im
and implant
dentistry, besides getting certificates from UCLA. Her extensive
experience and insights are now shared in an exclusive interview with Dental
Tribune Pakistan, highlighting her transformative contributions to the field. We hope her story will
inspire aspiring dentists, showcasing the outcomes of one’s passion for one’s craft.
By Dr Raminay
Can you provide an overview of
the expertise in implantology and
periodontics?
Periodontist is a specialist in dentistry who
specialises in diagnosis, treatment and
prevention of any disease pertaining to
the gums or bone around teeth and also
the placement and maintenance of dental
implant; placement means lack of bones and
insuﬃcient thickness of the gums needed
for the implant. This is where a periodontist
is needed to protect and regenerate bone
and the lost tissue and make sure there is
ample space for the placement of implants.
What is your advice to an individual on
how they can maintain good oral hygiene?
Make sure you are brushing your teeth twice
a day, ﬂossing after every meal, using a soft
bristle toothbrush and not going vigorous
on your gums as it will cause recession. And
consistency is key to maintain good oral
hygiene.
What causes gum diseases such as
gingivitis periodontitis, and what are the
warning signs one should look out for?
There are many factors involved in gingivitis
and periodontitis, but most common is
plaque and how our body responds to it.
Formation of plaque is normal, but if we
don’t clean it manually or by an ultrasonic
scaler it can form tartar which is a collection
of bacteria. Once formed, it starts to break
down tissues by releasing toxins. Pink and
ﬁrm gums are healthy, but if they are not
and if they are showing symptoms of gum
disease like redness, swelling, having pus or
mobility, then you should get a checkup

Can the consequences aﬀect a person’s
well-being?
Gum diseases can cause increased risk of
diabetes, stroke and other cardiovascular
conditions. The toxins released from tartar
can enter blood streams and clog your
arteries and cause stroke. If we talk about
diabetes, increased sugar level makes a
conducive environment for bacterial growth,
and cause periodontal diseases. We need to
take care of our mouth, so our entire body
is taken care of.
How important is patient education when
it comes to managing gum diseases?
First appointment matters the most. Invest
your time in informing the patient about the
problems he/she has and how to prevent
them, besides how the treatment will
beneﬁt the patient. Give them brochures,
show videos, and demonstrate them oral
hygiene techniques, for example brushing
and ﬂossing techniques.
What are the similarities and diﬀerences if
we compare dental education in USA and
Pakistan?
Both USA and Pakistan have four-year
dental programmes and one-year house
job or GPR training after that. There are
major diﬀerence in time management, risk
management, patient management and
clinical hours. All of this can help us to be
a better dentist by having a patient-centred
approach; the more you stay in clinic and
practice, the more experience you get.
What are the beneﬁts?
It helps you to treat patients regarding
every
aspect.
Give
evidence-based
treatment to the patients and other than

dental history, ask about nutrition, lifestyle,
habits etc., as our concern is not only the
oral cavity.
Are there any ﬁnancial aids or scholarships
that can help students in studying abroad?
There are ﬁnancial aids options, which allow
the students to pay in increments. But the
cost in the brochure of the programme
does not include the cost of transportation
and accommodation. Though there
are no scholarships available in dental
programmes, there is an option to get loan.
There are many two-week observership
programmes which a dental student or
graduate can apply for.
What is the typical procedure when you
are applying abroad?
TOEFL exam is mandatory and you have to
score 92 and above, and 22 in each section
of the exam. Next step is to give National
Licensing Board exam and then apply for
transcripts in Pakistan, evaluate and get
them converted to the GPA format. After
this, you can apply for DDS or any residency
programme.
Does studying abroad contribute to
personal and professional growth?
Yes, you learn intercultural communication,
get independent and learn the value of time
management. And most importantly, you
learn that the patient is always right and
have a patient-centred approach.
How do you stay updated with
developments in implant dentistry and
periodontology?
We should manage our time wisely
Continued on Page 11

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NEWS

11

DENTAL TRIBUNE | PAKISTAN EDITION | SEP-OCT 2023

BDC holds screening camp
for kids with special needs
KARACHI: Recognising the importance
of oral health for maintaining overall
health, especially for children with special
healthcare needs, Baqai Dental College’s
(BDC) community dentistry department
recently held a screening camp at the
Quaid-e-Azam Rangers School (Special
children), Super Highway, Karachi.
Head of Department Prof. Asghar Ali
Shigri, along with assistant professors
Dr Samreen Mazher, Dr Mahwish Bano,
Dr Wajiha Anzar, and house oﬃcers
conducted the screening camp aimed at
identifying oral health needs of children
with disabilities.
The school’s principal and vice principal
welcomed the BDC faculty
members
and
house
oﬃcers for setting up the
camp for children.
Around
80
children
enrolled at the school have
conditions including autism,
ADHD, learning problems,
intellectual
issues,
blindness and deafness. At
the camp children’s trainers
and
caregivers
were

A faculty group photograph featuring Prof. Dr Asghar Ali
Shigri, head of the community dentistry department at
Baqai Dental College. –Photos: DT Pakistan

provided awareness about oral health,
oral hygiene measures and eﬀective tooth
brushing techniques. The instructors were
also guided with regard
to special needs of the
children regarding oral
hygiene.
During the individual
oral examination by house
oﬃcers, the children were
found having conditions
like dental caries, bruxism,
dental trauma, other oral
anomalies,
malocclusion
and delayed eruption. –PR

London Dentistry Show promises ....

SSCMS holds seminar
on partial dentures,
challenges
KARACHI: Sir Syed College of Medical
Sciences organized a highly informative
seminar on the intricacies of partial dentures
and the challenges they pose by prominent
prosthodontist Dr Beenish Mehtab, sharing
her valuable insights on the subject.
The seminar held under the Continuing Dental
Education (CDE) programme held at college’s
dental section attracted a good number of
audience including faculty members and students.
In her lecture, Dr Mehtab underscored the
signiﬁcance of meticulously choosing the
appropriate partial denture solutions as per
need of individual patients.

A group photograph featuring participants alongside
esteemed lecturers, Dr. Beenish Mehtab and Dr.
Mehtab, as well as Prof. Dr. H.R. Sukhia, the Principal
of the Dental Section at Sir Syed College of Medical
Sciences. –Photo: DT Pakistan

Emphasising precision and patient-centered
care, she pointed out the complexities involved
in this area of prosthodontics. The lecture
especially focused on signiﬁcance of oral hygiene
for the patients grappling with partial dentures,
highlighting the need for both practitioners and
patients to remain vigilant in maintaining oral
health to avoid potential complications.
The college Principal Prof. H R Sukhia and
the administration lauded the eﬀorts of the
CDE committee in advancing oral healthcare
in Karachi and raising awareness about oral
health among the populace. They hoped
that through such collaborative endeavours,
Karachi continues to take signiﬁcant strides
in the ﬁeld of dental healthcare. –PR

Interview: Dr Qurat ul Ain Malik

Continued from front page

Continued from page 9

of digital dentistry on daily practice, discussing key trends shaping
the ﬁeld and their impact on patient care and clinical outcomes.
Attendees can anticipate gaining the latest knowledge and tools
to embrace digital dentistry and enhance their practices.
Moreover, Artiﬁcial Intelligence (AI) will take centre stage at the
event, with discussions on its role in the future of dentistry.
Prof. Nulty emphasises that AI will not replace dental professionals
but rather support and enhance clinical decision-making and
patient care. Beyond the educational sessions, the show promises
an engaging experience with ample opportunities for networking,
exploring cutting-edge advancements, and connecting with
colleagues and peers.
The dentistry show is set to be a landmark event for the digital
dentistry revolution, inspiring dental professionals to embrace the
latest technologies, elevate patient care, and stay at the forefront
of their profession.

and spend time by reading dental articles and take dental courses.
We should also invest in evidence-based new technology for better
treatment, diagnosis and planning, for example 3D printers help
with better treatment planning.
Did residency at New York University aﬀect your patient care?
Becoming an analyzer helps in developing customised treatment
plan for every patient which is evidence-based and also develops
good dentist-patient relationship. We should use patient-directed
approach and should not oversell. We should also give importance
to patient education.
Any advice for aspiring dentists?
Like-minded people will propel you forward instead of
discouraging, so surround yourself with good and like-minded
mentors.

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NEWS

DENTAL TRIBUNE | PAKISTAN EDITION | SEP-OCT 2023

Latest innovations a giant
leap for dentistry

By M Irfan Ali

As we continue to progress in the era
of technology, various ﬁelds experience
remarkable advancements, and dentistry is
no exception. Thanks to the development of
innovative tools and techniques, the ﬁeld of
dentistry is rapidly evolving, oﬀering more
precise, eﬃcient, and personalised care.
Some of the latest innovations that are
revolutionising dental care are:
Artiﬁcial intelligence (AI): AI has become
an integral part of dentistry, enhancing
diagnostics and providing personalised
treatment plans. AI-powered applications aid
dentists in early detection of potential dental
issues, improving diagnostic accuracy and
reducing human error. In the future, we may
even witness AI-assisted robots performing
surgical procedures.
Intra-oral scanner: A remarkable boon to
modern dentistry, the intra-oral scanner
accurately captures real-time 3D models of
the mouth, facilitating accurate diagnoses
and eﬀective treatment plans. This tool oﬀers
patients a swift and painless experience.
CRISPR: A groundbreaking gene-editing
tool, CRISPR is transforming the treatment
of genetic dental disorders like enamel
hypoplasia,
dentinogenesis
imperfecta,
and amelogenesis imperfecta. By precisely
modifying the human genome, it provides
a permanent solution to a range of dental
issues, promising a bright future for dental
treatments.
3D printing: This technology is revolutionising
denture production by creating a perfect
ﬁt through digital scans. It not only reduces
time and costs but also allows for easy

Create by DT Pakistan

customisation, enhancing comfort and
functionality.
Robotic surgery: While not widely available
yet, robotic technology shows immense
potential in enabling greater precision and
accuracy in complex dental surgeries, which
could lead to reduced recovery time and
improved patient outcomes.
Regenerative dentistry: A groundbreaking
ﬁeld that utilises biologically active molecules
and biomaterials to stimulate natural healing
and tissue regeneration in the oral cavity. This
holds the promise of stronger, more naturallooking teeth, and reduced decay.
Smart toothbrush: Keeping up with the age
of smart devices, toothbrushes now come
equipped with sensors and apps to track
brushing habits and provide personalised oral
hygiene tips, promoting preventative care.
Augmented reality (AR): AR enhances the
patient experience by simulating treatment
outcomes and guiding dentists during
procedures, making dentistry more eﬃcient.

Virtual reality (VR): By oﬀering immersive
simulations, VR is changing the perception
of dentistry being associated with pain and
discomfort. It plays a crucial role in distraction
techniques and pain management, making
the dental experience more comfortable.
Teledentistry: This innovative approach
oﬀers remote consultations and problemsolving, making dental care more
accessible, especially during the COVID-19
pandemic. It has revolutionised the
dental industry by providing eﬃcient and
convenient dental care.
These latest innovations in dentistry
are signiﬁcantly enhancing the patient
experience and accessibility of dental care.
At Smilebliss, we stay updated with these
advancements to provide our patients with
the best possible care. Contact us today to
learn more about our services and book an
appointment. Let us help you maintain a
healthy, beautiful smile with the latest dental
innovations.

ITI Karachi Study Club holds workshop on dental implants
KARACHI: ITI Karachi Study Club directors
goat heads as practical models to have a
Dr Ali Sadiq and Dr Fahad Umer, recently
realistic simulation of surgical procedures,
organised a workshop titled ‘Advancements
eﬀectively bridging the gap between
in Surgical Dentistry: Mastering Implants’
theoretical learning and practical application.
aimed at improving surgical proﬁciency of
Under the expert guidance of Dr Haseeb, the
dental professional of Karachi, facilitated by
participants gained conﬁdence and honed
Dr Muhammad Haseeb.
their techniques. Dr Taimur Khalid skillfully
The event featured a series of lectures
moderated the event, ensuring a seamless
and hands-on experiences to empower the
exchange of knowledge and interaction
participants to reﬁne their skills and expand
among the participants.
Participants
engaged
in
hands-on
activities
at
a
dental
implants
their expertise.
The event’s success underscored the
workshop. –Photo: DT Pakistan
Dr Haseeb, an expert in the ﬁeld,
commitment of the ITI Karachi Study Club to
delivered lectures on hard and soft tissue grafting, along with an in- advancing medical education and nurturing a culture of continuous
depth exploration of potential complications that practitioners may learning.
encounter.
The event not only imparted knowledge, but also fostered a sense
A highlight of the event was the immersive hands-on session, of camaraderie and collaboration among the participants who had a
allowing attendees to put theoretical knowledge into practice using deeper comprehension of intricate procedures. –PR

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[cover] => DT Pakistan No. 5, 2023

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Table of contents

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Alvi sees AI pivotal role in healthcare sector / London Dentistry Show promises exciting events for professionals / News

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