The Department of Public Health Dentistry conducts approximately 110 dental camps annually, reaching a diverse range of communities in need of dental care. Our outreach efforts extend to old age homes, schools, orphanages, and public service groups such as police station staff, fire brigade personnel, and rickshaw drivers. These camps not only provide essential treatments but also focus on educating these groups about the importance of oral hygiene and preventive care. Our goal is to make quality dental services accessible to everyone, particularly those who might face barriers to receiving regular dental care.
Mobile Dental Van Services
To further extend our reach, the department operates a fully equipped mobile dental van, allowing us to bring dental care directly to the community. This van is designed to offer basic dental treatments such as scaling, extractions, and fillings. It also handles emergency cases, ensuring immediate care for urgent dental issues. In addition to treatment, patients are provided with prescriptions, and those requiring further care are referred to our hospital for advanced treatments. As a part of our commitment to accessible healthcare, camp patients are offered special discounts at the hospital to ensure they receive continued care at an affordable cost.
Intern Involvement and Practical Training
Our interns are actively involved in these outreach programs, gaining invaluable hands-on experience as they assist with treatments and interact with patients from all walks of life. This practical training not only hones their clinical skills but also deepens their understanding of the role that dentistry plays in public health. By participating in these camps, students are exposed to real-world challenges and learn the significance of community service in their professional development.
Satellite Clinic at Airoli
In addition to the mobile dental van and community camps, the department also manages a satellite dental clinic in Airoli. This clinic serves as a continuous care facility for the local population, offering a range of dental services, including preventive and restorative treatments. The satellite clinic also acts as an extended training ground for our students, where they can apply their skills in a real-world setting while contributing to community health.
Research and Education Focus
Our department emphasizes the importance of research in dental public health. We integrate research into every facet of our outreach and educational programs, studying trends in oral disease prevention, healthcare delivery, and public health policy. Our faculty is deeply involved in teaching research methodology and statistics, preparing students to become future leaders in dental public health.
Our Mission
At the heart of the Department of Public Health Dentistry is the mission to extend oral health education and services to all segments of society. Through our mobile dental van, community camps, and satellite clinics, we aim to reduce oral health disparities, raise awareness about the importance of preventive care, and provide comprehensive dental services to underserved populations. Our work goes beyond treatment—we strive to educate and empower communities to maintain their oral health, ensuring a long-term positive impact on public well-being.