Introducing Dr. Sneha Poeghal, a dynamic dental professional serving the community of Hyderabad from her clinic, Smilebook Dental Clinic, located in Bachupally. Dr. Poeghal completed her BDS at Malla Reddy Dental College from 2015 to 2020, followed by her MDS in 2021 she is currently a 3rd year Postgraduate. With a passion for excellence in dentistry and a commitment to patient care, she brings expertise and compassion to every smile she helps create. Dr. Sneha blends her expertise with a warm demeanor, creating an experience that is as enjoyable as it is effective. Here, Dr. Nidhi Arora engages in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Sneha Poeghal.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: What inspired you to pursue a career in dentistry, particularly specializing in orthodontics?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: My journey into dentistry was somewhat unconventional.
From a young age, I harbored aspirations of becoming a doctor, fueled by a deep-seated fascination with biology and the intricate workings of the human body. As I progressed through my academic journey, my interest in the medical field only intensified.
However, when I first encountered orthodontics, I'll admit, I was apprehensive about the wires and pliers involved. Yet, over time, my perception of orthodontics shifted dramatically. I came to appreciate the field's ability to transform smiles without compromising the vitality of the teeth. The idea of redesigning aesthetic smiles and utilizing orthopedic appliances to work on the skeletal system, particularly for children, felt like discovering a form of magic within dentistry. This newfound appreciation for orthodontics has solidified my passion for the field and reaffirmed my commitment to pursuing a career that combines science, artistry, and transformative patient care.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: How did you transition from being a dental student to owning your own orthodontic clinic?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: Prior to becoming an orthodontist, I worked as a clinician in various clinics for approximately six months following the completion of my NEET MDS exam. I'm grateful that I utilized this time effectively rather than letting it go to waste. The experience of working in different clinics, despite the lower pay, motivated me to establish my own practice. With the unwavering support and assistance of my husband, I was able to realize this dream. He played a crucial role in honing my clinical skills. Balancing my MDS studies, running the clinic for a few hours each day, and managing household responsibilities was challenging but achievable. Additionally, I found fulfilment in managing my online platform, where I shared insights and advice for budding dentists facing similar challenges.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: What are the most common orthodontic issues or malocclusions that you encounter in your practice, and how do you address them?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: Common orthodontic issues include spacing and crowding. As we progress through each case, the transformation of the patient's smile becomes increasingly evident. We always begin with a tailored treatment plan, recognizing that each patient's needs are unique. Dealing with these cases requires careful consideration and a structured approach. While spacing is one challenge we address, crowding presents its own set of treatment strategies.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: What role does digital technology, such as 3D imaging and virtual treatment planning, play in modern orthodontic practice, and how has it changed the way you approach treatment?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: The integration of digital technology in orthodontics is truly remarkable and is currently gaining popularity as a trend. Digital treatment planning and aligners have revolutionized smile transformations. Following the initial scan for treatment, patients are even more convinced of the potential results as they can visualize the outcome before the treatment begins. Digital orthodontics has significantly reduced treatment time, thanks to the efficiency of digital impression and treatment planning processes.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: Can you share some insights into the process of orthodontic treatment for children versus adults, including considerations for growth and development?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: Orthodontic treatment approaches differ between children and adults. In children, orthopedic appliances are often utilized, particularly when skeletal correction is needed. These appliances leverage growth spurts to effectively alter skeletal patterns.
Conversely, in adults, skeletal patterns can also be modified, typically with the assistance of mini implants. These implants harness support from adjacent bone tissue, aiding in orthodontic correction. Despite the variation in techniques, treatment plans for adults and children share similarities, with many adult cases continuing with similar strategies after the initial use of functional appliances.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: How do you manage patient expectations and address concerns throughout the course of orthodontic treatment?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: Managing patients in orthodontics presents unique challenges due to the lengthy treatment duration, typically spanning from one to three years. Significant changes in alignment often become noticeable only after approximately six months in many cases. Therefore, it is essential to carefully plan each case and effectively communicate the treatment plan to patients, addressing any questions or concerns they may have throughout the process. This precision helps mitigate difficulties arising from patient inquiries during treatment.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: In your opinion, what are some of the emerging trends or innovations in orthodontics that are shaping the future of the field?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: One of the emerging trends in orthodontics is digital treatment with aligners. This includes digital planning, 3D printing of aligners, and intraoral scanning, which are gaining popularity for their ability to provide more precise orthodontic care. Additionally, invisible orthodontic therapy, such as clear aligner treatment, is increasingly popular among younger adults. Furthermore, orthodontic techniques like micro-osteo perforation and the use of photo biomodulation are helping to reduce treatment time.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: What are the potential risks or complications associated with orthodontic treatment, and how do you mitigate them?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: The potential risks associated with orthodontic treatment include periodontal problems. Orthodontic movement can sometimes lead to gum recession and inflammation, particularly if the patient's overall oral hygiene is poor.
Additionally, improper occlusion can contribute to temporomandibular joint problems, resulting in jaw pain. To manage these risks, we closely monitor treatment progress at each appointment and educate patients about proper oral hygiene practices. We may also recommend diet modifications to reduce risks in certain cases. Collaboration with other specialties is essential for achieving optimal treatment results.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: How do you prioritize continuing education and professional development to stay at the forefront of orthodontic practice?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: I prioritize balancing my education, professional development, clinical practice, and social media presence, but orthodontics always takes precedence as it brings meaning to my life.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: Can you tell some common challenges that NEET MDS aspirants face during their preparation?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: One common challenge faced by everyone is time management. Initially, we may believe we have ample time and overlook many topics. Later, when time becomes scarce, we tend to omit certain topics or read them halfheartedly.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: What resources or strategies do you recommend to NEET MDS aspirants for effective exam preparation?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: There isn't a specific strategy for MDS preparation.
It's essential to make the most of our time, coordinating the study of subjects to optimize preparation.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: what key points should aspirants keep in mind while choosing their preferred branch for PG?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: Before choosing a PG branch, it's crucial to note that one should have a genuine interest in that particular branch. Additionally, they should mentally prepare themselves for the lifelong commitment it entails, considering the financial rewards it may bring.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: Can you share some common challenges that dental graduates face when deciding on their career path?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: One common challenge for BDS graduates when choosing their career path is being influenced by others initially, followed by losing confidence in their own choices later on. It's important to make decisions based on self-assessment and conviction.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: How important is it for dentist to have their digital print on social media platform?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: It's crucial for dentists to utilize social media to showcase their work, as it helps attract more patients and rewards them for their efforts.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: Do you collaborate with other dental professionals or brands on Instagram, and if so, how do you select your collaboration partners?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: I collaborate with other brands based on their relevance to my followers and how they contribute to educating them.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: Congratulation for the little bundle of joy so how is motherhood treating you?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: Motherhood has its challenges, but we get used to the routines and adjust over time. What really makes me happy is seeing how cute and loving my newborn is.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: How do you prioritize self-care and maintain your own well-being amidst the demands of motherhood, running a clinic, and managing your online presence?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: I prioritize social media, my clinic, and my postgraduate studies equally, but currently, I'm giving more priority to giving proper care to my newborn.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: Any support systems that have been particularly helpful to you in navigating the transition into motherhood while also maintaining your professional commitments?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: My family, particularly my husband, serves as my support system for all the tasks I undertake. He genuinely cares about my mental well-being.
Dr. Nidhi Arora: As a new mother, what advice would you give to other dental professionals who are preparing to start a family or are currently balancing parenthood with their professional careers?
Dr. Sneha Poeghal: The advice I want to offer new mothers embarking on parenthood post-graduation is to plan meticulously, considering their college commitments and faculty coordination. Neglecting this aspect could disrupt their personal lives and care for the newborn.
