Indian Dental Practice; the Road Ahead
Nikhil Srivastava*
MDS, FDS-RCS (Edin), FDS-RCPS (Glasg), FICD, Principal & Dean, Subharti Dental College & Hospital, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University UP India
*Corresponding Author: Nikhil Srivastava, MDS, FDS-RCS (Edin), FDS-RCPS (Glasg), FICD, Principal & Dean, Subharti Dental College & Hospital, Swami Vivekanand Subharti University UP India.
Published: May 06, 2025
Abstract
The future of dental practice in India is poised to undergo a significant transformation driven by technological advancements and evolving patient expectations. One prominent trend is the integration of digital dentistry, including the use of intraoral scanners, CAD/CAM technology, 3D printing, CBCT and advanced softwares for orthodontic and Implant planning. These innovations enable the practitioners for accurate diagnosis, time efficient treatment planning, and the fabrication of inlays, onlays crowns and bridges, stents and aligners etc. with accuracy. Once these technologies become more affordable and widespread, dental practitioners will be able to deliver a high-quality and cost-effective treatment with reduced chair-side time and better prognosis.
Another key trend is the emphasis on cosmetic dentistry which has seen rapid growth in recent years, driven by increasing awareness of aesthetic dental health and advancements in dental technology. Patients often demand procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, and smile designing to enhance their appearance and boost confidence. Offering a wide range of high-quality, affordable cosmetic dental services mainly in metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai, likely to attract ‘dento-tourism’ from around the world. More clinics are expected to be equipped with modern facilities and employ skilled dental professionals trained in the latest techniques. This expanding sector will not only improve smiles but also contribute to overall oral health, making cosmetic dentistry a popular choice among individuals looking to achieve a more attractive and confident smile.
Tele-dentistry is also expected to become an integral component of dental practice in India, especially in rural and underserved areas. Leveraging telecommunication technologies, dentists will be able to provide consultations, follow-up care, and even preliminary assessments remotely. This will bridge the gap between urban and rural healthcare infrastructure, improve access to specialist opinions, and facilitate early detection of oral health issues.
Last but not the least, the future of dental practice in India will increasingly focus on holistic and interdisciplinary care, integrating oral health with overall health. With already established links between oral health and systemic conditions such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and obesity, dental professionals will work more closely with medical practitioners. This collaborative approach will promote comprehensive health strategies, personalized treatment plans, and the adoption of a patient-centric model that emphasizes not only the oral health but overall well-being. As a result, dental practices will evolve into centre of wellness that address the broader health needs of patients.