Newspatrolling.com News cum Content Syndication Portal Online
Raising awareness on malocclusion, which affects 12.5% to 33.3% of school children in India, yet remains largely undiagnosed.
2.0 Smiling Bharat, a nationwide initiative aims at enhancing orthodontic awareness and accessibility, with a target of screening 1 lakh patients by mid-year.
Delhi NCR, February 23, 2025: The 28th Indian Orthodontic Society (IOS) Postgraduate Convention, at Manav Rachna Dental College (MRDC), Faridabad, from February 20 to 23, 2025, has brought together leading orthodontic experts, postgraduate students, and researchers to discuss advanced techniques in orthodontics. A major highlight of this year’s convention is the launch of 2.0 Smiling Bharat, an initiative aimed at enhancing orthodontic awareness and accessibility across India. Centered around the theme “Digital Revolution with Sustainable Orthodontics,” the convention highlights advancements shaping the future of the field. The convention includes keynote lectures, pre-conference courses, panel discussions, table clinics, student paper presentations, and a trade exhibition showcasing the latest innovations in orthodontics, along with cultural performances and sports activities.
Dr. Puneet Batra, Organizing Chairman of the 28th IOS PG Convention, President – IOS, and Pro Vice Chancellor, Health Sciences & Principal, MRDC, stated, “Since its inception in 1996, the IOS PG Convention has played a vital role in orthodontic education.” He emphasized that digital tools are transforming diagnosis, treatment planning, and patient outcomes, making orthodontics more precise and efficient.
Speaking at the inauguration, Dr. Sanjay Labh, Secretary, Indian Orthodontic Society, remarked, “The introduction of 2.0 Smiling Bharat is a commendable step towards making orthodontic care more inclusive and accessible. The convention serves as a crucial platform for experts and students to collaborate on future advancements.”
Highlighting the role of education in driving innovation, Dr. Prashant Bhalla, President, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions, said, “Manav Rachna is honored to be part of this initiative. It is through such collaborations that we can bridge gaps in dental care and education, creating impactful change.” He added that Manav Rachna’s involvement in hosting the convention reinforces its focus on academic excellence and industry collaboration.
Dr. Amit Bhalla, Vice President, Manav Rachna Educational Institutions, noted, “This convention is an opportunity for students and professionals to engage with the latest research and practical applications in orthodontics. The emphasis on sustainability and digital advancements will shape the future of the field.”
Dr. Sanjay Srivastava, Vice Chancellor, Manav Rachna International Institute of Research and Studies, commented, “The IOS PG Convention provides a valuable platform for students to interact with industry experts and stay updated on advancements in orthodontics. It enables young professionals to gain firsthand exposure to emerging technologies and research-driven innovations, equipping them for future challenges.”
2.0 Smiling Bharat is a nationwide initiative aimed at increasing awareness and accessibility to orthodontic care, particularly in underserved communities. The initiative is expected to do the screening of 1 lakh participants by mid-year, significantly expanding outreach programs focusing on early diagnosis, preventive care, and digital solutions for better patient outcomes. By integrating technology and public health initiatives, Smiling Bharat seeks to create a lasting impact on orthodontic care across India. Malocclusion, the second most common dental disorder in India, affects between 12.5% to 33.3% of school children, yet awareness remains alarmingly low.
“This isn’t just about teeth; it’s about transforming lives,” emphasized Dr. Puneet Batra. “A confident smile is not a luxury, it’s a right! Whether in classrooms, interviews, or everyday interactions, a well-aligned smile can change the course of a child’s future.”
