Doctor Sparks Controversy by Insulting Dentists

Dental students and surgeons across Telangana have voiced their strong objection after a dermatologist allegedly made insulting comments about the dental profession during an interview aired on YouTube. The dermatologist reportedly referred to dentists as “fake doctors” and claimed that “dentists are not doctors.”
This sparked widespread outrage, with the All India Dental Students & Surgeons Association (AIDSA) filing a formal complaint with the Telangana State Dental Council in Hyderabad. AIDSA urged the Council to take strict action against both the dermatologist and the YouTube platform that aired the video.

Demand for Respect and Accountability

In their letter dated 6th May 2025, AIDSA stated:
“We strongly condemn the recent derogatory remarks made by a fitness instructor and a dermatologist, which were aired during a YouTube interview. These comments mislead the public and insult thousands of qualified dental professionals.”
AIDSA emphasized that such irresponsible statements damage the reputation and dignity of the dental community and could be considered professional misconduct.
They requested the Dental Council to act swiftly, sending a clear message that disrespect toward the dental profession will not be tolerated.

Public Apology Issued After Backlash

After the complaint and growing controversy, the dermatologist in question issued an unconditional public apology to the dental community. She explained that the remarks were taken out of context from a longer video, which was originally intended to raise awareness about unqualified medical practitioners (quacks).
The dermatologist also clarified:
“In India, dentists are known as dental surgeons or dental doctors. The offensive video clip has now been taken down from YouTube.”
She expressed regret and assured the dental community of her respect for the profession.

Apology Video Released

AIDSA shared the dermatologist’s apology video on Instagram, stating that a joint apology was initially scheduled to be recorded with both individuals involved. However, due to time constraints, the apology was recorded and released earlier than planned.
AIDSA added:
“Dr. has expressed sincere regret through a video apology. She has also promised to submit a written apology to further acknowledge her respect for dental professionals.”

Background: Ongoing Dispute Between Dentists and Dermatologists

This incident is part of a larger conflict between dentists and dermatologists regarding aesthetic and cosmetic procedures.

In 2022, the Dental Council of India (DCI) issued guidelines allowing Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons (a branch of dentistry) to perform aesthetic and hair transplant surgeries, provided they are registered with a State Dental Council.

However, this decision was challenged by a group of dermatologists under the Dynamic Dermatologist and Hair Transplant Association. They claimed that dentists were not qualified to perform these procedures and filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Bombay High Court.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.