Street dentists thrive in Old City

Self proclaimed dentists are thriving in the Old City much to the amusement of tourists and locals. Those who are in the know of things are aware of the huge risk that these roadside “doctors” armed with crude tools can pose to people.

Oblivious to the fact that several doctors were banned due to unethical practices just the other day, a dozen ‘dental clinics’ run without a care only a stone’s throw from Charminar. More specifically, Sardar Mahal is the place that the poor flock to with dental problems little realising that they stand a risk of infections and in some cases cancer at a later date.

The lack of awareness among people is one of the reasons for quackery to continue in the Old City. Dr M Sumalatha of VMJ Dental Clinic says, “Forceful fitting of teeth can cause harm and lead to cancer. Blood infections are common and may lead to cardiac problems. They use cheap material that could be detrimental.”

Most of the materials that dentists use in India are not manufactured in the country and are costly. With poor people unable to get treatment in clinics, roadside dentists take advantage of their situation. It is mostly technicians who pose as dentists and give treatment. The tools are never sterilised and crude methods are used. Many a time, a plier is used to remove tooth and no anesthesia is administered.

Ashok, a dentist says, “The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has been demanding for regulations and a law on street practice but there is no headway. Although Chapter V, Section 49 of the Dentist Act of 1948 makes it mandatory for dental mechanics and hygienists to be licensed, no action is taken.”

“Cost is the main attraction,” says Tajuddin, a resident of Purani Haveli. “The poor especially from the slums cannot afford to go to good clinics. Here there is no consultation and extractions cost just a few hundred rupees.”