Charu Bhatia, Senior News Editor, Business Remedies in conversation with Dr. Hoti Lal Gupta, a renowned Dentist, Academician and Policy Leader
From an unexpected beginning to becoming one of Jaipur’s most respected dental professionals, Dr. Hoti Lal Gupta’s journey reflects dedication, excellence and a lifelong commitment to oral healthcare. With decades of experience in clinical practice, dental education and policy leadership, he has played a key role in shaping modern dentistry in Rajasthan and beyond. As President of the Rajasthan State Dental Council and a member of the National Dental Commission, Dr. Gupta continues to advocate for innovation, improved training and wider access to quality dental care across India. In this exclusive interview, he talks about dental healthcare in detail and also how National Dental Commission will be beneficial for the entire dental and health industry.
Question: You are such a renowned dentist in Jaipur. What has your journey been like from the beginning? What was your inspiration behind this choice?
Answer: To say it clearly, I never initially planned to become a dentist. When I chose medicine, BDS as a degree was not very popular. I always aspired to be a doctor and received BDS according to my examination score. Later, during reshuffling, I was offered a seat in medicine. But by then, I had decided to pursue dentistry as I believe that whatever you do should be done with perfection and excellence. When I appeared for my All-India Pre-PG examination in dental, there were only 35 seats across India and I secured the 21st rank, after which I joined King George Medical College in Lucknow. I have also attained many international fellowships like from Harvard University, Boston and University of California, Los Angeles in Implant Training. I have been practicing dentistry ever since. Apart from clinical practice, I serve as President of the Rajasthan State Dental Council and have recently been appointed as an advisory member of the National Dental Commission, a central governing dental body at national level. I also taught dentistry at a medical college for many years and currently serve as the principal of Rajasthan Dental College and Hospital, Jaipur.
Question: How has patient awareness about oral health changed in the last decade?
Answer: Overall, awareness has increased significantly. In 1983, the course BDS started in SMS medical college and dental wing with just 15 seats. Today, there are two dental government colleges in Rajasthan and several successful private dental institutions running. Postgraduate dentistry has also gained popularity. One major reason is the rise of social media. As quality and standards of living improve, people are becoming more conscious about their overall health and its maintenance. Access to dental literature, including scientific publications, has also improved. All of this highlights that dental health directly impacts the body’s overall wellbeing.
Question: Are cosmetic procedures driving more clinical visits?
Answer: Cosmetic procedures are not necessities; they are largely aesthetic treatments. Maxillofacial surgeons are increasingly using Botox to enhance facial appearance. Dedicated clinics now focus exclusively on improving facial, jaw, and dental aesthetics due to the growing emphasis on personality and looks. Treatments for teeth alignment, spacing, and capping are increasingly in demand. While dentists may practice cosmetic procedures, specialization remains the best approach.
Question: How has the idea of ‘perfect smile’ changed over the years?
Answer: The concept of a perfect smile varies for every individual. For some, a perfect lip line matters, while for others, it is perfect teeth. Many smile enhancement clinics now exist. Creating a confident smile is often the work of a dentist. Dentistry includes various subspecialties such as Orthodontics, Prosthodontics, and Periodontics. Periodontics focuses on gum diseases, gum grafts, scaling, root planning, and dental implants, while other fields manage their own specialized treatments.
Question: How does technology transform dental care?
Answer: Digital dentistry is becoming increasingly popular and modern technology is bringing greater precision to dental treatments. Smile design software helps plan personalized smiles with highly accurate results, and the future looks promising. With AI, implant surgeries can be better guided and more efficient.
Question: How does dental health affect other organs of the body?
Answer: We believe the oral cavity is the gateway to the entire body. Chronic conditions like pyorrhea can be extremely harmful. Some dental problems negatively impact the cardiovascular and nervous systems and can increase stroke risk. Studies also show effects on pregnant women, including low birth weight in newborns. Dental issues may affect kidneys and even contribute to Alzheimer’s disease. Literature shows that more than 100 diseases can be reflected in the oral cavity.
Question: How does modern lifestyle affecting dental health?
Answer: Today’s youth consume more soft foods like cola, pizza, and burgers. This creates an acidic environment in the mouth that encourages harmful bacteria. These sticky foods bind to teeth, leading to decay and black deposits. The natural tooth structure can deteriorate quickly.
Question: At what age should dental check ups start?
Answer: Dental care should begin as soon as a baby develops milk teeth. Regular checkups are essential to maintain good dental health.
Question: What are the challenges that you faced during your initial days of practicing dentistry?
Answer: My rule has always been to work with perfection. When you dedicate yourself wholeheartedly, challenges do not feel overwhelming. Problems vary, but passion and commitment help you become an excellent dentist.
Question: What do you think how will dentistry look like in the coming decade?
Answer: Dentistry has an extremely bright future. Digital dentistry continues to grow, and robotics and AI will make treatments more effective. Research is already advancing rapidly. In the future, we may even recreate lost teeth using advanced technology. Scientists and dental experts are working tirelessly towards innovation.
Question: You have recently been selected as an esteemed member of National Dental Commission. How will this council change the scenario of Dental and Health Care in India?
Answer: The National Dental Commission is a major step towards improving dental care in India. Training programs for aspiring dentists will improve, and there will be better segregation between general and specialized dental providers. Services for the public will improve, and technology adoption will increase. Currently, rural areas lack adequate dental care, but the council’s directives aim to expand services to these regions. The council supports innovation and curriculum updates.
Question: Lastly, what message would you like to render to the young aspiring dentists?
Answer: Dentistry offers tremendous growth opportunities. Work with honesty and dedication, driven by passion rather than money. This mindset will help you deliver the best care to patients and truly justify your profession.
