Hands-on pediatric dentistry workshop at IADSR strengthens clinical skills of practitioners

LAHORE: In a move aimed at strengthening practical competencies in child dental care, the Institute of Advanced Dental Sciences and Research (IADSR) recently organized a one-day hands-on workshop on pediatric dentistry. The session was conducted as part of the 20th Professional Diploma in Advanced General Dentistry (PDAGD) program, focusing on bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world clinical practice.

Pediatric dentistry remains one of the more demanding areas of dental practice, requiring not only technical proficiency but also a strong understanding of child behavior and clinical decision-making under pressure. The workshop addressed these challenges by providing participants with structured, practice-oriented training designed to improve confidence in managing pediatric patients.

The session was led by Dr. Arham Nawaz Chohan, Professor of Pediatric Dentistry at CMH Lahore, who delivered instruction grounded in clinical experience. He emphasized the importance of thorough examination and well-defined treatment planning, noting that the absence of a structured approach can increase the risk of complications. Participants were guided through key principles of safe and effective treatment planning, alongside discussions on behavioral management and the judicious use of antibiotics in children.

A significant component of the workshop was dedicated to hands-on training. Participants performed procedures such as stainless steel crowns and anterior strip crowns on typhodont models under close supervision. The interactive format allowed attendees to address procedural challenges in real time, reinforcing both technical skills and clinical reasoning.

The program also included detailed sessions on pulp therapy in primary teeth, where participants were introduced to diagnostic considerations and treatment protocols. Additional discussions covered dental trauma in both primary and permanent dentition, iatrogenic complications, and the application of radiographic techniques in pediatric cases.

Advanced topics, including apexogenesis, apexification, space management, and complications associated with pulpotomy in primary molars, were also integrated into the training. These subjects were presented within a clinical context to help participants better understand their practical application.

Organizers noted that the workshop reflects an evolving approach in dental education in Pakistan, with increasing emphasis on hands-on, skill-based learning. Participants reported that the session enhanced their understanding, corrected common misconceptions, and improved their ability to manage pediatric cases more effectively.

With growing awareness of child oral health, such training initiatives are considered essential in preparing dental professionals to meet the demands of modern clinical practice and improve the standard of pediatric dental care across the country.