3 Day IADR Mahakumbh in Delhi showcased ‘Virat Oral Cavity’ of Innovations & Translational Researches
New Delhi: Dentistry and oral health in India is rapidly entering into cutting edge age of quick fixes and low cost. Rapid technological 
advancements and translational researches are all set to unleash new era of oral embellishments. On such promising note did 3 day Asia Pacific Regional Conference of International Association for Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Research (IADR) and 35th Annual Conference of Indian Society for Dental Research (ISDR) start in Delhi. The Mahakumbh of dentistry proved a veritable ‘Virat Oral Cavity’ showcasing the pace of innovations going on towards renewing, refurbishing and adorning the large orifice that houses teeth, tongue, jaw lines and gums.
One very positive takeaway of this mega conference is that Indian government has finally assumed a pro active approach to oral health and has liberally loosened its purse strings for funding innovations and translational researches. The dentistry leaders said the new found impetus from the union government will completely transform the oral health scenario in India. Oral health in India thus far has been on backburner.
The inaugural Session of the IADR Asia Pacific Regional Conference & 35th Annual Conference of the Indian Society for Dental Research (ISDR) heralded the beginning of a landmark scientific gathering in New Delhi. The three-day conclave has drawn more than 600 delegates, including 150 international participants from 20 countries. Over 30 national and international keynote speakers addressed the participants at lectures, workshops and hands on sessions. The conference emphasizes research-driven collaboration across oral and craniofacial sciences. The inaugural session was graced by Prof. Abhijat Sheth, Chairman, National Medical Commission and Dr V Narayanan, Chairman Space Commission and Secretary Department of Space who stressed the need of clinical research in oral health.
In a Press Conference preceding inaugural dignitaries highlighted the urgency of tackling oral diseases, which affect billions worldwide, and shared insights on how research and innovation can transform oral health and overall well-being. Dr. Christopher Fox, CEO, IADR (Washington, USA), emphasized the global scale of the problem saying “Oral diseases affect more than 3.7 billion people worldwide, making them the most common health conditions on the planet. Yet, they remain overshadowed by other diseases in public health discussions. The strength of IADR lies in its network of 10,500 active researchers across the globe. Oral health must be recognized as a vital component of overall health and well-being.”
Dr. Pamela Yelick, President, IADR, said, “As someone who has been part of IADR for over 30 years, I know the power of collaboration. This conference brings mentors, collaborators and young innovators under one roof. My own work in genetic abnormalities and regenerative therapies has shown me how basic science can translate into products that repair teeth and prevent replacements, something unthinkable few years ago. ”
Prof. (Dr.) Mahesh Verma, Organising Chairman of the Conference and Vice Chancellor, GGSIPU acquiesced in a sober fact that cost in dentistry is a bit painful but assured that the technological advancements , innovations and translational researches going on in the domain will certainly lessen the rough edges of cost over time. Dr Verma said, “Oral diseases may not always be life-threatening, but they silently erode the quality of life. Nearly 85% of oral problems are preventable if addressed through awareness, preventive research and the use of affordable technologies. Dr Verma added, ‘ Our challenge is big. Millions across rural and urban India either cannot access or cannot afford dental care. Technology and innovation must bridge this gap. Today, as lifestyles changes and the standard of living rises but wellness cannot be achieved without oral health. It is time oral health is given the attention it deserves in our national health agenda.”
Dr. Saranjit Singh Bhasin, Organising Secretary, focused on nurturing the next generation saying, ‘If we want to change the future of oral health, we must start by shaping young minds today. Research should be introduced at the undergraduate BDS level so that curiosity and innovation become part of dental education. This conference is unique because it gives young scientists a platform through paper presentations, poster symposiums, and competitions. With over 100 participants from Japan alone, the conference is a true celebration of young talent, and we are confident that these budding researchers will be the driving force of change in the years to come.”
Dr. S.M. Balaji, Secretary General, ISDR, highlighted India’s growing role in global research saying“The Indian dental research community has grown significantly, with our work now published in some of the highest impact factor journals.” Dr. Vijay Mathur, Interim President, IADR, drew attention to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Dentists account for nearly 10% of all antibiotic prescriptions, and studies show many are avoidable. If we do not act now, antimicrobial resistance will become one of the greatest threats to global health.” Experts also urged policymakers to strengthen oral health under national missions and expand dental coverage under Ayushman Bharat to include outpatient services.
