Awareness, training and financing can help drive digital adoption in Pakistan The dental profession has undergone a transformative evolution over the last few decades, driven largely by advancements in digital technology. From diagnosis to treatment planning and execution, the integration of digital devices has revolutionized the way dental care is delivered, improving accuracy, efficiency, and patient outcomes. Digital imaging Traditional X-rays, which were once the gold standard in dental imaging, are being increasingly replaced or supplemented by digital imaging technologies including Digital X-rays offer higher image quality, reduced radiation exposure, and instant image viewing. Dentists can zoom in for more…
Author: Prof. Dr. Asaad Javaid
Saudi Arabia’s healthcare reforms and advancement under Vision 2030 create opportunities for Pakistan’s dental industry Every year, on September 23, Saudi Arabia celebrates its National Day, marking the unification of the Kingdom by King Abdulaziz in 1932. This day not only serves as a symbol of national pride and unity, but it also provides an opportunity to reflect on the Kingdom progress across various fields. Vision 2030, the King’s comprehensive plan for economic and social reform, highlights the importance of healthcare development as a fundamental component of national progress. Dentistry, as an integral part of healthcare, is emblematic of this…
Integrated approaches in agriculture and nutrition drive societal well-being and economic growth Food is a fundamental human necessity for health, and serves as an important driver of economic activity across the globe. The intricate relationship between food, health, and economics is essential for societal well-being. Adequate nutrition is mandatory for maintaining good health, boosting immune function, and preventing diseases. Healthy individuals are more productive, contributing effectively to the economic productivity including in agriculture. Malnutrition and poor health, on the other hand, lead to reduced work capacity, increased healthcare costs, and economic strain. The agricultural sector plays a vital role by…
Role of businessmen in promoting modern dental technology in Pakistan In present day dentistry, technology stands as a formidable ally, revolutionising traditional practices and enhancing patient care. From diagnostic tools to treatment methods, technological advancements have reshaped every facet of dental care, ushering in an era of precision, efficiency, and patient comfort. Digital radiography Cutting-edge imaging technologies such as digital radiography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) provide unparalleled insights into oral health, enabling dentists to diagnose conditions with pinpoint accuracy and plan treatments effectively. Intraoral scanner The intraoral scanner stands as a game-changer in modern dentistry, reforming the traditional…
Oral and Dental Health refers to the condition of the teeth, gums, tongue, and other oral structures that allow individuals to eat, speak, and interact with others comfortably and effectively. Good oral health not only benefits individuals by reducing the cost of general healthcare and improving quality of life but also contributes to a healthier and more productive society, thus holding significant economic value for individuals, communities, and health delivery systems for several reasons. Better performance & productivity Good oral health enhances productivity at the workplace. Oral health issues, such as toothaches or gum disease, cause pain and discomfort, leading…
Pakistan is one of the most populated countries nurturing more than 24 crores of people with inadequate economic resources. 30% population lives below the poverty line and the healthcare system offers extremely unequal services throughout the country. There is a desperate need to increase the health budget to improve its health delivery infrastructure. The government should prioritise constructing and upgrading healthcare facilities, particularly in rural and underserved urban areas to facilitate people to conveniently access the facility. Oral health is an integral part of general health and the existence of inequalities in oral health care can well be anticipated in…
Poverty is universally recognised as a scourge because of its detrimental impact on societies. As per the World Bank, the poverty rate in Pakistan is reported at 39.3%, with 22% falling below the poverty line. Pakistan’s global ranking stands at 161 out of 192 countries. This indicates that a significant portion of the population struggles to fulfill basic necessities of food, clothing, shelter, healthcare, and education. All individuals who are unable to fulfill their basic needs due to poverty are eligible to receive charity. Those with resources should contribute generously through monetary donations, volunteering and demonstrating empathy towards those in…
Oral health in Pakistan faces several challenges and these challenges are often entangled with several economic factors. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including increased investment in oral healthcare infrastructure, educational initiatives, and public health awareness campaigns. Efforts to alleviate poverty and improve general economic conditions can indirectly contribute to better oral health outcomes by enabling individuals to prioritize their general healthcare as oral health is its integral part. Pakistan is one of the highest populated countries and according to Bureau of Statistics’ report of year 2023, it caters more than 242 million individuals. Its population faces a high…
Oral health in Pakistan faces several challenges and these challenges are often entangled with several economic factors. Addressing these challenges requires a multifaceted approach, including increased investment in oral healthcare infrastructure, educational initiatives, and public health awareness campaigns. Efforts to alleviate poverty and improve general economic conditions can indirectly contribute to better oral health outcomes by enabling individuals to prioritize their general healthcare as oral health is its integral part. Pakistan is one of the highest populated countries and according to Bureau of Statistics’ report of year 2023, it caters more than 242 million individuals. Its population faces a high…
Investment is customarily defined as the “commitment of money to receive more money later” but its literary meaning gives a little broader intuition. It means “commitment of resources to achieve later benefits”. In oral health sector, investing in Oral Health Care and Oral Health Industry give two distinct perceptions as stakeholders for the two are unalike. Investors in the oral health care are individuals and the families who aim to improve their oral health whereas investors interested in oral health industry can be private equity firms, venture capitalists or institutional investors who contribute capital to businesses operating within the oral…
Good oral health is mandatory for maintaining decent general health. Oral diseases like gum ailments and tooth decay not only cause agonizing pain but adversely affect one’s ability to chew. They also pose difficulty in pronouncing various words and thus speech is compromised. Bad breath is another big challenge faced by sufferers. It has been well-documented that the bacteria in gum disease can increase the risk of heart disease, clogged arteries, or stroke. Gum infections have also been linked to premature births and low-birth-weight babies in ladies undergoing pregnancy. Diabetes Mullites is a bidirectional endocrine disorder that enhances the likelihood…