Department of Public Health Dentistry

The Department of Periodontia & Community Dentistry, established in 2000, is a pioneering institution dedicated to advancing periodontal care and public health dentistry. Comprising two sections, Periodontics and Community Dentistry (Public Health Dentistry)

The Department of Public Health Dentistry, formally established in 2026 following the bifurcation from the  Department of Periodontology and Community Dentistry at Dr. Z. A. Dental College, Aligarh Muslim University. The Department of Public Health Dentistry is dedicated to advancing oral health at the community and population level. With a strong foundation rooted in academic excellence, preventive dentistry, and public health principles, the department plays a pivotal role in improving oral health outcomes through education, research, and outreach.

Educational Endeavours:

The department is actively involved in teaching Public Health Dentistry to undergraduate (BDS) students, emphasizing preventive, promotive, and community-based oral healthcare approaches. In 2023, postgraduate training (MDS in Public Health Dentistry – 1 seat/year) was initiated, further strengthening the academic framework and research capacity of the department.

Community Outreach and Services:

Public Health Dentistry is inherently community-oriented, and the department actively extends its services beyond institutional boundaries. Regular dental camps, school oral health programs, tobacco cessation initiatives, and awareness drives are conducted to address the oral health needs of diverse populations.

The department operates through established outreach centers including:

• Rural Health Centre at Jawan Village
• Urban Health Centre at Qila Road, Aligarh
• MAS University Health Centre satellite clinic

These platforms facilitate preventive, promotive, and basic curative dental services, particularly targeting underserved and vulnerable populations.

Clinical and Preventive Services:

The department provides comprehensive preventive and basic dental care, including:

• Oral health screening and risk assessment
• Preventive procedures such as fluoride application and sealants
• Tobacco cessation counseling
• Oral health education and behaviour change communication

A strong emphasis is placed on early diagnosis, prevention, and minimal intervention strategies to reduce the burden of oral diseases at the population level.

Research and Public Health Impact:

The department is actively engaged in research focusing on epidemiology of oral diseases, quality of life assessment, tobacco control, and community-based interventions. Faculty and postgraduate students contribute to national and international scientific literature, supporting evidence-based public health policies and practices.

Vision:

• To be a leading center of excellence in dental education, research, and patient care.

• Strive to produce competent, compassionate, and ethical dental professionals who contribute positively to society.

• Embrace innovation and advancements in dentistry to provide stateof-the-art education and patient care.

• Foster a collaborative and supportive environment that encourages lifelong learning and professional growth.

• Lead in community engagement and outreach programs to promote oral health awareness and accessibility.

Motto:

• Excellence in Education: Committed to delivering high-quality dental education through innovative teaching methods and comprehensive curriculum.

• Compassionate Care: Dedicated to providing patient-centered care with empathy, respect, and integrity