With the turn of events in the research and advanced technology field, many young graduates are moving forward in dental research connecting various fields of medicine to explore the depth and diversity. Dr Sadaf Asrar is a dynamic, evolving Oral Biologist; determine to understand the basics of craniofacial anomalies and to implement practical knowledge in day to day patient management.
Dr Sadaf sets a remarkable example for all struggling women in dentistry who are victims of social stigma and cultural barriers.
Dr Sadaf is Assistant Professor and Head of the Oral Biology Department in Liaquat College of Medicine and Dentistry, who believes dentistry encompasses a variety of domains, which are yet to be explored.
“ To excel in any field, vast experience and practical knowledge are not enough, but peer support and teamwork is also an imperative part for any professional growth”- Dr Sadaf Asrar
Quick tips to professionally grow
Primarily, the communication and counselling skills are of utmost importance since health care worker has to deal with people of every race and ethnicity. She strongly recommends, “Knowing how to communicate well and reciprocate effectively is of great significance. Besides communication and social skills, the specialised skills of dentistry are what makes a dentist stand out amongst others.”
In addition, she encourages people to imply knowledge of new innovative tech tools with continuous professional development, which is the main ingredient to develop a highly effective professional. As for her, “Flexible and adaptable to transitions and transformation during one’s professional growth to meet the international standards is another quality that should be attained by every professional. “
Dr Sadaf on current discoveries and researches
A recent short communication letter published in the British Dental Journal by R.W Hathway (2021) highlighted significant facts about a patient presenting with a COVID tongue. This is a specific term given to COVID patients concomitantly presenting with erythema migrans of the tongue. Apart from this, oral ulcers of unknown aetiology, xerostomia and alteration in taste are identified as potential markers. According to Dr Sadaf, “The COVID virus desensitises the taste buds (papillae) or nerves which relate to associated symptoms.”
Dr Sadaf further adds, “I would like to emphasize upcoming researchers to work in the domain of dental stem cells to benefit the treatment outcomes in dentistry. As this subject holds great importance and future of dentistry.”
“Concerning its future in Pakistan, the subject would be of great importance in the future to research in the field of dental stem cells as it has shown great potential and a lot of work is already ongoing in the west.”
Advice for young researchers
Dr Sadaf advises, “The current era is a scientific period, and each health care practice supports evidence-based treatment, which makes us recognisable and developed in newer techniques and innovative methods for diagnosis and treatment.” Henceforth, evidence-based oral healthcare practise should be strongly implemented in each field for continuous professional development. She also believes that with time women have surpasses many hurdles with utmost dedication and are now excelling in their profession.
“Concerning women, they should opt for dentistry once they can dedicate their life to the profession with passion despite just being interested in getting the title of doctor.”
Dr Alizey Shahid
The author is contributing writer at Dental News Pakistan and can be reached at alizey.shahid@yahoo.com
