IDA recently launched some initiatives such as the National Dental Accreditation Program and the National Oral Health Observatory. Dr Ashok Dhoble, Secretary General, Indian Dental Association (IDA) in an interaction with Kalyani Sharma talks about these initiatives and more
Dr Ashok Dhoble, Secretary General, IDA
How has the IDA evolved over the years in terms of addressing preventive dental care and standardisation in dentistry?
IDA is a national body, and for the last 78 years, we have been working tirelessly toward enhancing public oral health and the dental profession at large. Most of our initiatives have focused on prevention. Dental diseases are entirely preventable through simple steps—brushing twice daily, flossing, eating healthy, and regular visits to a dentist.
We have also launched landmark initiatives such as the National Dental Accreditation Program and the National Oral Health Observatory. These programs aim to bring standardisation into both education and practice in dentistry. From sterilisation protocols to the use of standard equipment, we want patients to feel assured of quality care when they visit any dental clinic.
Could you elaborate on how these new programs will improve the quality of dental care in India?
Standardisation is key—whether in education or in clinical practice. We’ve designed these programs to implement uniform protocols and monitoring systems across clinics and dental institutions. Patients often wonder whether instruments are sterilised properly or whether procedures follow standard norms. Through these initiatives, we are setting a benchmark for quality and safety in dental care, accessible and understandable to both practitioners and patients.
What role do you see technology and digital dentistry playing in enhancing preventive care, especially in underserved regions?
Digital dentistry is a game changer, especially for rural India where access to dentists is limited. Approximately 65 per cent of our population lives in rural areas, but only 25 per cent of dentists serve them. To bridge this gap, IDA has developed digital platforms and tools like oral scanning devices that provide instant analysis and can connect patients with nearby IDA-affiliated dentists. We are also enabling teleconsultations, which allow diagnosis and advice without physical travel—saving time and resources.
What is your view on public-private partnerships (PPPs) in improving oral healthcare delivery across India?
Given the vast rural population and infrastructural limitations, PPPs are critical. IDA has a strong network of over one lakh dentists nationwide, enabling us to efficiently conduct rural dental camps, school-based oral health programs, tobacco cessation drives, and oral cancer screening initiatives. We must remember that India has one of the highest burdens of oral cancer globally, and prevention is the only viable long-term strategy. Our focus is firmly on prevention, and collaborations with the government and private sector enhance our reach and impact.
Do you believe the current dental curriculum in India prepares students adequately for real-world practice, especially in rural settings?
There has been significant progress. The curriculum is evolving to match international standards, which is essential if we want Indian dentists to be globally competitive. From the IDA’s side, we are conducting more than 3,000 skill-enhancement programs across the country every year. These programs are designed to ensure that practitioners are equipped to face challenges in both urban and rural contexts.