Exploring dental regulation in India

In May 2024 the ADC’s Interim CEO and Director of Accreditation, Policy and Research visited several dental schools in India to better understand the context of dental education in India and to explore the possibility of international accreditation. During the visit, the ADC met key stakeholders including the Dental Council of India and the Australian High Commission and visited a selection of private and government dental colleges.

The ADC observed that the scope of practice that is taught extends beyond dentistry, particularly with regards to prosthetics and can include eyes, ears, digits and hair implants. This is to meet patient needs, particularly in circumstances where patients are unlikely to be able to attend multiple appointments and it is within the practitioner’s skill set to perform the extended procedures.

Of interest, the ADC also observed a strong focus on collaboration between health professionals and, in some circumstances, with professions outside of health. For example, research collaborations were being undertaken with the engineering department on digital dentistry projects.

Some institutions expressed interest in exploring avenues to set up exchange and/or observership programs for students and staff. If established, these could provide excellent opportunities to learn about the delivery of care in a different setting and also to gain clinical exposure to a greater breadth and range of patient conditions.