Dr Kamana Neupane is a 30-year-old dentist currently practicing at Kantipur Dental College Teaching Hospital and Research Centre. She serves as a consultant periodontist at the teaching hospital, where she shares her expertise with aspiring dental professionals. She obtained her Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree from Chitwan Medical College. She followed that up with a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) degree from Kantipur Dental College, affiliated to Kathmandu University. 

In addition to her clinical practice, Dr Neupane is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Nepalese Society of Periodontology and Oral Implantology, Nepal Association of Dental Research, and the Nepal Medical Association. She strives to provide the highest quality dental care to her patients while actively contributing to the advancement of dental research and education in Nepal. Rastrika Shakya from ApEx spoke to Dr Neupane about her experience and roles in the field of dentistry.

What do you think about the current state of dental care in Nepal? 

In our region, particularly in the southeastern area, there’s a noticeable lack of awareness about oral health. Many people believe that as we age, our teeth naturally become weaker and see it as normal, which is a misconception. This leads to a general unawareness and lack of motivation regarding oral health. Regular checkups for oral health aren’t common. Most people only visit a dentist when they have severe issues. If people understood the importance of good oral hygiene and made regular visits to the dentist, oral health problems would decrease. Just like we prioritize taking care of other parts of our body, it’s crucial to prioritize our oral health too.

In urban areas, there’s some regard for oral health but in remote areas, there’s very little awareness. For many, oral health care and treatment seem like luxuries rather than necessities. It’s unrealistic to expect people in remote areas to prioritize dental health when they’re struggling to meet their basic needs. However, we can make a positive impact with proper education, awareness, and motivation. 

What are some practices for maintaining good oral hygiene? Are there any habits or behaviors that negatively impact oral health?

Brush your teeth every morning and night, right after meals, using a soft-bristled toothbrush and toothpaste with fluoride. Don’t forget about dental floss as it’s crucial for cleaning the spaces between your teeth and removing any leftover food. Also, make sure to rinse your mouth, teeth, and tongue thoroughly. It’s all about keeping your entire mouth clean and healthy. However, maintaining good dental hygiene isn’t the only factor in oral health. Some bad habits can negatively impact our oral health. Smoking, drinking alcohol, and using substances like cocaine, heroin, and tobacco can directly weaken our gums and teeth. Habits such as teeth grinding and breathing through the mouth can also cause problems. Studies have shown that individuals who smoke or abuse substances are four times more likely to experience gum problems than non-smokers. 

What are the key steps you take when a patient comes to your clinic for treatment?

We conduct a comprehensive assessment of their physical and mental well-being. We carefully evaluate their orientation and overall fitness to ensure they are in a condition conducive to receiving treatment. We delve into their medical history to gain insight into the reasons behind their visit and the specific issues they are facing. We take into account their overall health status, recognizing that certain medical conditions can significantly impact oral health. For instance, we are mindful that conditions like diabetes can manifest in oral symptoms such as loose teeth, despite diligent oral hygiene practices.

Then we conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s mouth, often using X-rays, CT scans, and sometimes blood tests for more complex cases. This helps us diagnose any problems. We prioritize treatment based on the patient’s immediate needs, such as relieving pain or addressing swelling. Then we address any underlying issues that the patient might not have been aware of. We take the time to thoroughly explain the patient’s condition, discussing the contributing factors and potential treatment options. By empowering patients with knowledge about their oral health, we enable them to make informed decisions and actively participate in their treatment journey.

Are there any community outreach programs or public health initiatives you’re involved in to promote dental health awareness and education in Nepal?

We actively engage in oral health campaigns within local schools, recognizing the receptivity of young minds to educational initiatives. Through these campaigns, we want to impart fundamental knowledge about maintaining oral hygiene to children. We emphasize the importance of regular brushing and demonstrate proper brushing techniques tailored to their age and understanding. Our commitment to promoting oral health extends beyond the classroom. We also conduct checkups and treatment camps in rural areas. These camps serve as crucial outreach initiatives, providing much-needed dental services to underserved communities. We also take the opportunity to educate attendees about the significance of oral hygiene practices. We aim to instill good oral hygiene habits from a young age and ensure that everyone has access to essential dental services and knowledge.

How do you stay updated on the latest advancements and techniques in dentistry? 

In our field, we rely on international journals to stay updated with the latest advancements. These have articles containing new research, processes, and advancements in dentistry. Researchers share their findings, fill gaps in knowledge, and present results while comparing their work with previous techniques. As a periodontist, I’m part of the periodontal society in Nepal which comprises all Nepali periodontists. We organize three conferences annually. During these conferences, we host national speakers who present on various topics, including postgraduate students sharing their cases and outcomes. We invite international speakers to share insights into developments in their respective countries. These conferences serve as platforms for exchanging information and updating ourselves on the latest trends and practices in periodontology. We also actively participate in international conferences where we can engage with the global dental community, exchange knowledge, and learn about advancements from around the world.

What are your views on the future of dentistry?

When comparing Nepali dentistry with international standards, we find ourselves lagging significantly. Our technologies and practices are outdated, primarily due to affordability constraints. Many Nepali patients struggle to afford advanced dental treatments available in more developed countries. Additionally, the availability of advanced dental equipment and materials in the market is limited in Nepal.

Despite these challenges, there is hope for improvement in the future. With ongoing advancements in technology and increasing awareness, we aspire to bridge the gap and reach the same level as international standards soon. It will require concerted efforts from both the government and the dental community to enhance infrastructure, increase affordability, and improve access to modern dental technologies and practices.