Inauguration of the State-of-the-Art Dental OPD at Father Muller Medical College Hospital
Mangalore: On 15 May 2025, the Department of Dentistry at Father Muller Medical College Hospital proudly inaugurated its newly constructed Dental Outpatient Department, a facility designed to meet the highest international standards in dental care and education. Presiding the inaugural and blessing was Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho Director FMCI.
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the presence of the esteemed Management Committee members and consultant dentists who made it a point to attend this landmark occasion. The event was officially opened with a warm welcome address by Dr. Kelvin Peter Pais, Liaison Officer and Associate Professor, who highlighted the significance of this advanced clinical space for both patients and learners.
The new Dental OPD is equipped with six ultramodern dental chairs, an advanced Orthopantomogram (OPG) unit, Radiovisiography (RVG) facilities, and the latest in sterilization technology to ensure unparalleled infection control and patient safety. The thoughtfully designed premises include faculty rooms, patient consultation rooms, a welcoming reception and waiting area, spacious laboratory rooms, and well-maintained washroom facilities—making it truly one of a kind in a medical college hospital setting.
The highlight of the event was the inauguration by Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho, Director of Father Muller Charitable Institutions, who formally opened the clinic by cutting the ceremonial ribbon, followed by a solemn prayer and blessing over the new premises and all those gathered.
In his inspiring address, Rev. Fr Richard Aloysius Coelho spoke about the importance of creating a beautiful, functional, and patient-centered Dental OPD. He specially commended Fr Ajith B Menezes for his relentless dedication in monitoring and overseeing all infrastructural requirements throughout the project. He expressed gratitude to everyone present for their continuous support of the dental unit and offered prayers that this new facility serves the community with excellence and compassion.
Rev. Fr George Jeevan Sequeira, Administrator FMMCH, Rev. Fr Nilesh Crasta, Asst. Administrator FMMCH Dr. Antony Sylvan D’Souza, Dean FMMC, Dr. Venkatesh, Vice Dean, Dr. Uday Kumar Medical Superintendent, FMMCH, Dr. Kishan Shetty – Additional Medical Superintendent, Dr. Kishan Shetty – Deputy Medical Superintendent along with Principals, HOD’s and staff were present.
The vote of thanks was delivered by Dr. Nanditha Hegde, Professor, Head of the Department of Dentistry, and Senior Endodontist, who acknowledged the efforts of all who contributed to this achievement. She thanked the proprietors and companies who helped with the construction.
Christopher Noronha Architects for the architectural design and guidance, and Mr Kiran Architech for the best of designs.
Divakar Constructions for the civil works, Mr. Umesh for being the best supervisor.
Mr. Joy Varghese of Bright Aluminium for the aluminium fixtures and fittings,
Mr. Maxim from Meelna Electricals for the electrical work,
Mr. Vincy Pinto of Pinto Electricals for the plumbing work,
Mr. William of Wisdom Enterprises for the curtain fittings and décor,
Mr. Suraj of Activa Systems for the system integration,
Mr. Ajith of Ajith Arts for the beautiful sticker artwork and visual branding,
Mr. Ganesh Baliga for the installation of the central oxygen supply system,
Confident Dental for the supply of advanced dental chairs and equipment,
Mr. Prakas for the Toughened glass
Mr. Michael, our Maintenance Manager at FMCI, for his constant oversight,
And Mr Ronald (Rony), Assistant In-Charge of Maintenance, for his tireless efforts in keeping everything on track.
Also present were eminent faculty members including:
Professor Dr. Naveen Rao, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon
Dr. Gayatri S Rao, Associate Professor, Oral Medicine and Radiology
Dr. Jyothi Menezes, Senior Dental Surgeon
Dr. Sowmya Shetty, Senior Dental Surgeon
This new OPD marks a significant milestone in the department’s journey to provide cutting-edge, compassionate, and ethical dental care. It promises to enhance patient comfort and clinical education, setting a new benchmark in integrated dental healthcare.