The current oral presentation reviews aspects of oral health in Georgia and the role of the education system to meet public health challenges.

The intersection of dental education and research is crucial to the continuous improvement of oral health.  Advanced educational programs equip dental students with the necessary skills to cope with diverse oral health challenges, and the research drives them to use new therapeutic approaches and preventive strategies in their practice.

In 2019-2021 a research conducted by the dental team assessed the prevalence of periodontal disease and revealed its predictors in the student population of CIU [L.Tsitaishvili et al]. The findings showed a high prevalence of dental plaque-induced gingivitis and accentuated the role of University dental clinic in providing proper and adequate management of dental diseases with an emphasis on oral hygiene enhancement, promotion of oral prophylaxis, secondary prevention and eradication of local risk- factors.

In 2022-2023 another research was conducted by the dental team at CIU to highlight effective treatment strategies in the University clinic aimed at (a) clinical management of dental and periodontal diseases and (b) awareness campaigns to promote healthier lifestyles. Comparison of clinical data showed considerable improvement in oral health in treated individuals.

Dentistry students at CIU participate in a complex rehabilitation of patients with major dental diseases and awareness campaigns promoting oral and general health through public lectures, conferences and workshops.

Engaging dental students in strategic public health initiatives play a crucial role in promoting health education, can alleviate burden of diseases and significantly enhance the country’s sustainable development.

Prof. Lela Tsitaishvili studied Dentistry at the Tbilisi State Medical University(TMSU), Georgia and graduated as General Practitioner Dentist in 1999. She then pursued her PhD at the Tbilisi State University (TSU). She received her PhD degree in 2015 at the same institution. That same year she obtained the position of an Associate Professor at the Caucasus International University. Since 2023, she has held the position of Professor, Head of the Dental Educational Program and Clinical Director of the University Clinic. Throughout her career she has contributed to dental research publishing about 15 articles in scientific journals.