KARACHI: Strengthening preventive dentistry requires dental students to understand not only how oral diseases are treated, but also how evidence-based interventions can help prevent them. A Fluoride Gel Application Workshop at Baqai Dental College provided students with academic instruction and practical exposure to topical fluoride therapy, highlighting the role of fluoride in dental caries prevention and community oral healthcare.
Organised by the Department of Community Dentistry, Baqai Dental College, the workshop focused on the scientific basis, indications and clinical application of fluoride gel as a professional preventive measure.
Connecting dental education with preventive care
The workshop was conducted under the guidance and supervision of Prof Dr Asghar Ali Shigri, Head of the Department of Community Dentistry, Baqai Dental College, with Dr Nauman, Dr Raza, Dr Mehwish and Dr Samreen serving as facilitators.
The academic session examined the importance of fluoride in maintaining oral health and its role in the prevention and control of dental caries, one of the most common oral health problems affecting communities worldwide.
The training placed preventive care alongside conventional clinical treatment, reinforcing the role of dentists in preventing oral disease, promoting healthy behaviours and educating individuals and communities about measures that can support long-term oral health.
Understanding fluoride's role in protecting teeth
During the workshop, Prof Dr Asghar Ali Shigri delivered an informative and interactive session explaining the mechanism of action of fluoride and its contribution to improving the resistance of tooth enamel against acid attacks.
Students were introduced to the indications and benefits of topical fluoride therapy, with particular attention to fluoride gel application.
The discussion connected the scientific principles of fluoride with its practical application, helping students understand the rationale behind professional topical fluoride use as part of a broader preventive dentistry approach.
From classroom learning to clinical application
A detailed demonstration gave students practical insight into the steps involved in fluoride gel application.
The procedure covered patient preparation, selection and placement of appropriate trays, proper isolation and moisture control, application of fluoride gel, and precautions before, during and after the procedure.
The facilitators emphasised the importance of following appropriate techniques and safety measures to support effective and suitable fluoride delivery.
The practical component allowed students to observe the clinical application of concepts discussed during the workshop, strengthening the connection between theoretical knowledge and preventive dental practice.
Preventive dentistry extends beyond disease treatment
The facilitators also highlighted the importance of preventive dentistry in reducing the burden of oral diseases within the community.
Students were encouraged to recognise that the role of dental professionals extends beyond treating established disease. Patient education, oral health promotion and appropriate preventive interventions are also important components of dental practice.
This perspective is particularly relevant to dental caries, where prevention and risk reduction can complement treatment and help individuals maintain better oral health over time.
Building skills for prevention-focused dental practice
The interactive format encouraged students to actively participate in discussions and ask questions about fluoride therapy and its clinical application.
The workshop further emphasised the importance of incorporating preventive strategies into routine dental practice. Fluoride gel application was discussed as a professional preventive measure when appropriately indicated, including for individuals who may have an increased risk of developing dental caries.
The combination of academic discussion and practical demonstration gave students an opportunity to better understand how preventive concepts translate into clinical practice.
Strengthening community dentistry education
The workshop reflected the Department of Community Dentistry at Baqai Dental College's commitment to combining theoretical instruction with practical exposure and community-oriented preventive healthcare.
Under the supervision of Prof Dr Asghar Ali Shigri and with the facilitation of Dr Nauman, Dr Raza, Dr Mehwish and Dr Samreen, the session brought together fluoride science, clinical technique and the broader principles of oral health promotion.
By familiarising students with topical fluoride therapy and its preventive rationale, the workshop contributed to their academic and professional preparation for dentistry that places greater emphasis on disease prevention, patient education and community oral health.
Ultimately, the training reinforced an important principle of preventive dentistry: effective oral healthcare is not limited to treating disease after it develops; prevention and education are fundamental to protecting long-term oral health.
Stay connected with Dental News Pakistan
CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW the official Dental News Pakistan WhatsApp Channel for the latest PMDC updates, dental education news, student achievements, professional developments, research breakthroughs and important regulatory developments affecting Pakistan's dental community.