GDCH becomes FIRST IN INDIAlaunch Sports Dentistry Fellowship

 Staff Reporter

 

sportsperson needs to remain fit physically and mentally both. There is a team physician and physio in every team who looks after the general health of the team members. But sports dentistry, as a whole, is a neglected branch. It can play an important role in not only helping players improve their diet but also cure their dental injuries, if any. Considering that aspect, the Department of Sports Dentistry, an initiative of Paediatric and Preventive Dentistry at Government Dental College and Hospital (GDCH), Nagpur, marked a historic milestone with the launch of India’s first Fellowship in Sports Dentistry. Expressing happiness over the development, Dean Dr Abhay Datarkar told ‘The Hitavada’, “Maharashtra University of Health Sciences has given approval to this fellowship. It will bring a change in sports as well as in dental science.We, at GDCH, are trying to give something new so that we can improve the treatment modalities.”

 

The event, held in the college auditorium, witnessed enthusiastic participation from faculty members, students, and esteemed dignitaries from the fields of dentistry and sports sciences. During the launch, the growing need for sports dentistry was emphasised in ensuring the oral health and safety of athletes. Explaining the concept, Dr Datarkar said, “Oral hygiene is a very significant component in dental science. It supports any person in improving one’s diet. In fact, it guides everyone who follows as to which food should be chosen. A sportsman should have proper diet so that he or she can maintain good health. Oral hygiene will guide such sportsperson as to what should be consumed. Sports dentistry is a branch of sports medicine that focuses on the prevention and treatment of oral injuries, diseases related to sports and exercise.”

 

A player can suffer from dental injury during a game. Sports dentistry can prevent oral injurieslike tooth intrusion, dental contusions, and jaw fractures. Dr Datarkar pointed out, “Treating oral diseases like toothdecay, dry mouth, and erosivelesions is an integral part of SportsDentistry as well as advising athletes on how to prevent injuriesby wearing protective gear likemouth guards, helmets, and facemasks. It will educate athletes onhow to maintain good oral health. To become a sports dentist, oneneeds to earn a degree in dentistry, complete a residency program or take continuing education courses in sports dentistry. Sports dentistry is important because it helps athletes prevent and treat injuries that can impact their performance. It can also help athletes avoid dental conditions like tooth decay and dry mouth.” Dr Prashant Khote, Principal, Dhanwate National College; Dr Mangesh Phadnaik, Vice Dean and Professor (Administration); Dr Manjusha Warhadpande, Vice Dean and Professor (Academics); Dr Ritesh Kalaskar, Head, Department and Professor; and Dr Surendrakumar Bahetwar, Assistant Professor; Dr Ashita Kalaskar, Dr Darshan Dakshindas, along with MSDC (Maharashtra State Dental Council) observer, Dr Devendra Nagpal graced the launching ceremony.