By Dr. Mahnoor Mohsin
Access to dental care in Pakistan remains an important yet often overlooked issue. While cities may have modern clinics and skilled practitioners, countless rural communities face significant challenges and are unable to receive basic oral healthcare. Through a combination of volunteer dental camps and public health initiatives there are hopes that these disparities will be overcome.
One of the most constructive ways to provide immediate dental care in these areas has been through volunteer dental camps. These clinics have dentists volunteering their skills to bring services to those who would otherwise not get treated. In remote villages, where the nearest dental hospital may be hours away, these camps offer checkups and even complex procedures like extractions and fillings. These camps not only provide immediate relief, but also educate patients about the importance of dental hygiene, allowing individuals to attain knowledge with which they are able to maintain better oral health.
While volunteer efforts are advantageous, they are often not enough to get to the root causes of dental care disparity. For dentists working in low-income areas, offering affordable services while maintaining a profitable practice is a constant challenge. Dental supplies and equipment are expensive, and patients from rural communities may struggle to pay the fees. Many dentists are torn between the desire to help and the finances needed to run a practice.
Public health initiatives, particularly those focused on preventative care, play an important role in reducing the burden of dental diseases in under served areas. In Pakistan, where preventive dental care is often overlooked, campaigns emphasizing oral hygiene practices like brushing, flossing, and regular check-ups can have a transformative impact.
Looking to the future, creating a sustainable model for dental care accessibility in Pakistan will require innovative solutions, such as tele-dentistry, where patients can consult with a dentist via video calls. This could bridge some of the gaps in rural areas. Private sector involvement, in the form of sponsorships, could also relieve the financial burden on both patients and providers.
The issue of dental care accessibility in Pakistan is complex, but not impossible to overcome. Through volunteer efforts and public health programs, the gap in dental care can be narrowed and can ensure that everyone, regardless of where they live or how much they earn, can access the dental care they deserve.
