Hybrid Symposium on World Disability Day – Structured Discussion Forum on Silver Diamine Fluoride

In commemoration of the International Day of Persons with Disabilities (IDPD), Manav Rachna Dental College and Hospital (MRDC), in collaboration with the Federation of Special Care Dentistry (FSCD), hosted a pioneering symposium on December 4, 2023. Titled “SDF: Structured Discussion Forum on Silver Diamine Fluoride – The Bottom Line,” the event aimed to address the unique dental healthcare needs of individuals with disabilities. The significance of aligning with the IDPD mission to raise awareness and understanding of the challenges faced by this community was evident throughout the symposium.

The hybrid symposium witnessed approximately 400 participants, including students and faculty from 25 colleges across India, as well as international delegates from Dubai, Nepal, Bangladesh, Kuwait, and Abu Dhabi. The esteemed Guest of Honour, Dr. Vivek Kumar Singh, President of Jharkhand Dental Council, acknowledged MRDC’s commitment to academic and social causes. He lauded the initiation of a program specifically designed for the preventive and oral rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities, recognizing the college’s role as a pioneer in the field.

The symposium unfolded with a series of engaging sessions, including guest lectures by Dr. Meenakshi Kher and Dr. Mukul Jain, emphasizing the transformative role of Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF) in managing dental caries in special children and adults. These lectures, chaired by Dr. Manu Rathee and Dr. Namita Kalra, showcased clinical cases and provided a profound understanding of the subject matter. A panel discussion, featuring experts such as Dr. Srinivas Namineni, Dr. Meenakshi Kher, and Dr. Mukul Jain, facilitated an interactive platform where participants from around the world posed questions and sought insights on special care dentistry. The inclusion of an online expert panelist, Dr. Sivakumar Nuvvula, added a global perspective to the discussion.

A hands-on workshop conducted by Dr. Mukul Jain allowed participants to learn and practice SDF applications in dental care, bridging the gap between theory and practical knowledge. The symposium also marked the inauguration of the Conscious Sedation Clinic in the Department of Pediatric & Preventive Dentistry, symbolizing a commitment to advancing sedation dentistry.

The success of this symposium not only substantiates MRDC’s steadfast commitment to comprehensive dental care but also represents a pivotal stride in the dissemination of knowledge and the cultivation of collaborative efforts within the field of special care dentistry. We believe that initiatives like these are crucial in advancing oral healthcare for individuals with disabilities and contribute significantly to the broader mission of the IDPD.