Reforms in Dental Education ? Are We Shying Away

The enactment of Dentist Act in 1948 and consequent formation of Dental Council of India in 1949 paved the way for professional dental education in India. Still the approach to dental education in the country needs the much needed reforms as there is a failure to incorporate current methods of evidence-based education. Inclusion in the curriculum of newer specialities such as implantology, laser dentistry and forensic odontology would be expected by the young graduates as a means to advance their professional and practicing skills, and open up a lot of opportunities to them. Currently the contribution to the research field is abysmally low in comparison to the other counterparts. This is one area which needs to be given the right thrust by way of incentives, scholarships and avenues for career advancements. Major reforms are the need of the hour in our dental educational system which will generate interest and enthusiasm for practice of dentistry in general, and particularly in rural settings. If this is not achieved, then we will simply not be keeping pace with, or be responsive enough, to changing patient demographics, patient desires and expectations.