Training for dental surgeons underway in Kohima

DIMAPUR — A two-day state review meeting and training of dental surgeons, organised by the National Oral Health Programme (NOHP), got underway at IDSP Hall of the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare in Kohima on Wednesday.

An update from the Health department stated that the inaugural programme, chaired by Dr. Reyosalu Lase, joint director (dental) and state nodal officer of NOHP, was attended by Dr. Mereninla Senlem, principal director of Health and Family Welfare, as the special guest, and Dr. Avile Zao, mission director of National Health Mission (NHM), as the guest of honour.

In her address, Dr. Avile Zao congratulated the dental fraternity for their dedicated service and highlighted the vital role of dental surgeons in promoting oral hygiene, emphasising the harmful effects of tobacco and improving preventive care. She also drew attention to rapid advancements in dental science such as tele-dentistry, 3D printing, implants, laser treatments, CAD/CAM technology and artificial intelligence.

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She further encouraged the dental surgeons to stay updated and make full use of the upgraded facilities being provided under NHM and NOHP to strengthen dental services across the state.

In her exhortation, Dr. Mereninla congratulated the dental fraternity for the recognition accorded as the ‘Best Performer’ in the small states category during World Oral Health Day 2025 activities and termed as a proud milestone and a reflection of teamwork and dedication.

She emphasised that patients must remain the top priority and advised the dental surgeons to balance OPD responsibilities with outreach work. She stated that dental health units are provided with modern equipment such as dental chairs, scalers, light cure machines, X-rays and some with RVG (digital X-rays) with computer/ laptops etc. She further encouraged them effectively utilised those facilities particularly for patients in rural and far-flung areas.

The welcome address was delivered by Dr. Arenla Walling, additional director (dental), and concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Dr. I Simon Sumi, deputy director (dental) and SNO of NTCP.

Report stated that awards were also presented to some health units in recognition of their outstanding contributions. It stated that the best dental health unit award was given to Naga Hospital Authority Kohima, while the principal director’s commendation award for best dental surgeon was given to Dr. Esther Chopy from Mon District Hospital, best dental hygienist award was given to Dr. Lemshikala Longkumer from Longleng District Hospital and the best dental assistant award was given to Mengusenuo Sachü from Dimapur District Hospital.

It mentioned that the two-day event aims to review the performance of dental health units across the state, strengthen clinical and preventive dental care services and enhance the skills of dental surgeons through training and interactive sessions.