✔ Medically Reviewed
Reviewed by Dr. Roshan Rayen , BDS, MDS — Chief Dentist, Rayen Dental Care Centre, Chennai
Registration number 5051
25 years of postgraduate clinical experience in pediatric dentistry and orthodontics
Oral health is part of overall well-being. Healthy teeth and gums support eating, speech and everyday comfort. Poor oral hygiene can lead to dental problems, infections and, in some cases, effects on general health, which is why regular dental care matters. When choosing a dentist in India, qualifications, registration, hygiene practices and clear communication are the points to check.
India has a large number of dental professionals and clinics, offering services from routine cleaning to specialist treatment. Patients often compare clinics by looking at the dentist’s training, the equipment used, the range of services and how clearly costs and treatment options are explained.
This guide covers why oral health matters, common dental problems, the types of dental specialists, what dentists do, the services available, what to expect at a visit, and the dentists at Rayen Dental Care Centre, a dental clinic in Nungambakkam, Chennai.
Why Oral Health Matters
Dental problems don’t always stay in the mouth. Research has associated untreated gum disease with conditions such as cardiovascular disease, and it can make blood sugar harder to manage in people with diabetes. Your dentist can advise on what applies to you.
Dental conditions also tend to progress in stages:
- Early stage: Plaque builds up and enamel begins to weaken. A small filling is usually enough.
- Middle stage: Decay reaches deeper layers of the tooth, and sensitivity or pain may begin.
- Advanced stage: The infection reaches the pulp or root, and treatment such as root canal therapy or extraction may be needed.
Regular checkups, usually every six months or as your dentist advises, help detect problems at an early stage, when treatment is generally simpler.
About Rayen Dental Care Centre
Rayen Dental Care Centre is located at 30/1, Redbrick Leela Apartments, Tank Bund Road, Nungambakkam (near Loyola College), Chennai – 600 034. It provides general and specialist dental care for children and adults.
NABH accreditation: The clinic holds NABH accreditation under the Dental Healthcare Service Providers (DHSP) standards (Certificate No. D-2025-0455, valid March 13, 2025 to March 12, 2029, subject to continued compliance). The accredited scope covers:
- General dentistry
- Oral and maxillofacial surgery
- Oral medicine and radiology
- Orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics
- Pedodontics and preventive dentistry
Accreditation can be verified at nabh.co. It does not guarantee any treatment outcome, and services outside the listed scope are not covered by it.
The Dentists at Rayen Dental Care Centre
The clinic’s dentists work across general dentistry, pediatric dentistry and oral diagnosis. Each profile below gives qualifications, registration details and areas of practice. Registration can be checked with the respective State Dental Council.
Dr. Roshan Rayen
- Chief Dentist, Pedodontist and Dental Surgeon
- BDS, MDS (Pediatric Dentistry)
- Registration No. 5051
- Experience: 20+ years
Dr. Roshan Rayen completed his BDS at Madras Dental College (1995–2000) and his MDS in Pediatric Dentistry at Meenakshi Ammal Dental College (2001–2004). He has additional training in orthodontics through Progressive Orthodontic Seminars (POS), a USA-based curriculum. This is additional training, not a postgraduate degree in orthodontics. He has worked in pedodontics and general dentistry at Dr. Vijayalakshmi Acharya’s Clinic and the Ministry of Defence Hospital, Avadi.
His clinical work covers preventive care for children, treatment of cavities in baby and young permanent teeth, assessment of bite and jaw development, and orthodontic care for children and adolescents. Parents can also ask him for guidance on brushing, diet and habits such as thumb-sucking. Any treatment, its estimated cost and the alternatives are explained to the parents before work begins.
Dr. Nida Fathima
- Dental Surgeon
- BDS
- Experience: 7+ years
Dr. Nida Fathima practises general dentistry for patients of all ages. General dentistry is usually the first point of contact for dental care, covering examination of the teeth, gums and mouth, treatment of common problems and referral to a specialist when a case needs one. Her work includes routine examinations, professional cleaning, preventive care, and restorative treatment such as fillings and crowns. She also provides cosmetic procedures such as teeth whitening.
Patients may consult her for a checkup, a cleaning, a cavity, a broken tooth or sensitivity, or when they are unsure whether their concern needs a specialist. She reviews your symptoms and medical history, explains the findings, and discusses treatment options and estimated costs before treatment begins. She also advises on brushing, flossing and diet, and refers patients who need a specialist opinion to the relevant dentist within the clinic.
Dr. D. Manikandan
- Associate Pediatric Dentist
- BDS, MDS (Pediatric Dentistry), HP Government Dental College & Hospital, Shimla (2023)
Dr. D. Manikandan completed his MDS in Pediatric Dentistry at HP Government Dental College & Hospital, Shimla, in 2023. His areas of work include full-mouth rehabilitation for children with extensive dental problems, interceptive orthodontics (guiding jaw and tooth development early while the child is growing) and PNAM, a presurgical technique used for infants with cleft lip and palate. He also provides preventive care, including early cavity detection and fluoride therapy.
His training includes hands-on instruction in nitrous oxide sedation, aesthetic dentistry and space management, and he has taken part in national and international conferences. Parents may consult him for a child’s checkup, cavities, early loss of a baby tooth, or an early assessment of bite and jaw growth. He explains brushing technique and diet to parents and children.
Dr. Chandrakantha Balaraman
- Associate Pediatric Dentist
- BDS, MDS (Pediatric Dentistry)
- Experience: 5+ years
Dr. Chandrakantha Balaraman provides dental care for infants, children and adolescents. Her areas of work include the management of dental trauma, such as chipped, loosened or knocked-out teeth after a fall, and root canal treatment of young permanent teeth, whose roots are still developing. She also provides cavity prevention, fillings where decay has occurred, and early orthodontic evaluation as a child grows.
Her patients range from toddlers having a first checkup to teenagers with orthodontic concerns, and she adapts behaviour management techniques to each child’s age and temperament. Parents may consult her for a dental injury, tooth pain, a suspected infection in a young permanent tooth, or a child who is nervous about dental visits.
Dr. Bhavithra Augusthian
- Oral Physician and Maxillofacial Radiologist
- BDS, MDS (Oral Medicine and Radiology)
- Experience: 7+ years
Dr. Bhavithra Augusthian practises oral medicine and radiology, the specialty concerned with diagnosing conditions of the mouth and jaws, including through imaging. Oral medicine deals with changes in the oral soft tissues, such as ulcers and patches, while radiology deals with reading dental X-rays and other scans. Her work includes reviewing radiographs, helping identify conditions such as impacted teeth, bone changes, cysts and infections, and advising which imaging is appropriate so that X-rays are taken only when clinically needed.
Her imaging reports support treatment planning by the other dentists at the clinic. Patients may be referred to her for a diagnostic opinion, or may consult her about a sore, patch or swelling in the mouth that hasn’t healed, or symptoms that a routine examination hasn’t explained. If imaging is needed, it is explained beforehand, and the findings are shared with you and your treating dentist.
Dr. Jebarani Jeevitha S
- Oral and Maxillofacial Physician and Radiologist
- BDS, MDS
Dr. Jebarani Jeevitha S works in oral diagnosis and radiology. Her work covers the examination of conditions affecting the oral soft tissues, jaw, face and surrounding structures, and the interpretation of related imaging. Images of the jaw and face may need more detail than a standard dental X-ray, and she interprets these as part of the diagnostic process.
She works with the treating dentists on diagnosis before treatment is planned, for example before extractions or jaw-related treatment, because some conditions can’t be seen on examination alone. Patients may be referred to her for a diagnostic opinion or imaging review. Patients with persistent jaw, face or mouth symptoms that haven’t been explained may also see her, and she advises whether further tests are needed.
Dr. Anunitha R
- Pediatric Dentist
- BDS, MDS (Pediatric Dentistry)
Dr. Anunitha R provides preventive and restorative dental care for children. Her work includes checkups, cleaning and fluoride application, treatment of cavities in baby and permanent teeth, and early detection of decay and alignment concerns. Decay in baby teeth can cause pain and infection and can affect the permanent teeth behind them, so early checks help detect problems when they are easier to treat.
She explains procedures to children in simple terms so that they know what to expect, and prepares parents for what treatment will involve. Parents may consult her for a child’s first dental visit, a routine checkup, a cavity or tooth pain, or questions about habits such as thumb-sucking or nighttime bottle feeding.
Dr. Madhu Nandhini K
- Pediatric Dentist
- BDS, MDS (Pediatric Dentistry)
Dr. Madhu Nandhini K provides preventive and restorative dental care for children. Her preventive work includes dental sealants, which are thin coatings placed on the chewing surfaces of back teeth to help protect them from decay, and fluoride treatment. Her restorative work includes fillings and other treatment where decay or damage has occurred, and she also provides routine examinations and cleaning.
She introduces young patients to the clinic gradually, starting from the first visit, which might involve only sitting in the chair and becoming familiar with the surroundings. Parents may consult her for preventive care such as sealants or fluoride, for fillings, or when a child is nervous about dental visits. She also guides parents on oral habits at home for each stage of growth.
Dr. Chandramouly
- Dental Surgeon
- BDS
Dr. Chandramouly practises general dentistry for adult patients. His work includes routine checkups, assessment of overall oral health, preventive care and cleaning, and fillings and restorative care. He reviews your symptoms and medical history, examines your mouth, and explains the findings and options before any treatment starts.
Adults may consult him for a routine checkup or cleaning, a cavity, a broken tooth or sensitivity, or when they aren’t sure whether their problem needs a specialist. Where a case needs one, he refers the patient to the relevant dentist within the clinic.
Common Dental Problems: Symptoms and Treatments
Dental problems are common and can progress if left untreated. Knowing the symptoms helps you seek care early.
Tooth Decay and Cavities
Caused by plaque buildup, leading to pain and sensitivity. Treatment may include fillings, crowns or root canal therapy, depending on how far the decay has progressed.
Gum Disease (Gingivitis and Periodontitis)
Symptoms include bleeding gums, swelling and bad breath. Early stages may be treated with professional cleaning, while advanced cases may need further periodontal treatment.
Tooth Sensitivity
Pain with hot or cold foods. Causes include enamel wear, a cavity or gum recession, and treatment depends on the cause. Desensitizing toothpaste and fluoride may be advised.
Enamel Erosion
Caused by acidic foods or drinks and some oral habits. Preventive care and bonding may be recommended.
Bad Breath (Halitosis)
Often related to oral hygiene, gum disease or decay, though it can have other causes. A dental examination helps find the cause.
Teeth Grinding (Bruxism)
Can lead to jaw pain and worn teeth. A night guard and stress management may be advised.
Dry Mouth (Xerostomia)
Reduced saliva increases the risk of decay. Your dentist can suggest ways to manage it, and may advise you to see your doctor if medicines are involved.
Impacted Wisdom Teeth
Wisdom teeth that grow at an angle or stay partly under the gum may cause pain, swelling or infection. An X-ray helps the dentist decide whether removal is advisable.
A dentist’s examination is the way to find out which of these applies to you and what treatment is suitable.
Types of Dental Specialists
Dentistry includes several specialties, each addressing a different part of oral health:
- General dentist: Routine care, including checkups, cleaning, fillings and basic treatments.
- Orthodontist: Correction of misaligned teeth and jaws with braces, clear aligners and other appliances.
- Pediatric dentist: Children’s oral health, with preventive and therapeutic treatment.
- Endodontist: Diagnosis and treatment of tooth pain and infection, mainly through root canal procedures.
- Periodontist: Treatment of gum disease, including gum surgery where needed.
- Prosthodontist: Replacement of missing teeth with crowns, bridges, dentures and implant-supported restorations.
- Oral and maxillofacial surgeon: Surgical procedures involving the mouth, jaw, face and teeth, such as complex extractions and corrective surgery.
- Oral pathologist: Diagnosis of diseases affecting the mouth and jaws through clinical and laboratory analysis.
- Dental radiologist: Imaging, such as X-rays and scans, used to diagnose dental and facial conditions.
- Public health dentist: Community oral health through education, prevention programs and public health policy.
In India, a dentist who completes the Bachelor of Dental Surgery (BDS) degree is also called a dental surgeon, and a Master of Dental Surgery (MDS) shows specialty training. Whichever dentist in India you consult, it helps to check that their training matches the treatment you need.
What Does a Dentist in India Do?
A dentist’s responsibilities cover prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
- Diagnosis and treatment planning: Examining patients with clinical evaluation and diagnostic tools, and preparing a treatment plan.
- Preventive oral health: Regular checkups, cleaning and early detection of oral disease.
- Restorative care: Repairing damaged or decayed teeth with fillings, crowns, bridges and other restorations.
- Oral surgery and procedures: Minor surgical treatments such as extractions and gum procedures, within the dentist’s training.
- Prosthodontic care: Replacing missing teeth with dentures, crowns, bridges and implants.
- Anaesthesia and safety: Using local anaesthesia and following safety protocols to keep treatment comfortable. Any sedation is given only by suitably qualified personnel.
- Patient education: Guidance on oral hygiene, diet and lifestyle habits.
- Referral and collaboration: Working with specialists and referring patients when advanced treatment is needed.
Dental Services at Rayen Dental Care Centre
- Preventive and routine dentistry: Checkups, scaling, polishing and early detection of dental issues.
- Restorative dentistry: Fillings, crowns and bridges for damaged or missing teeth.
- Root canal treatment: Removal of infected pulp from inside the tooth, which may allow the tooth to be kept in place.
- Cosmetic dentistry: Whitening, veneers and smile design. Results vary between patients.
- Orthodontics: Braces and clear aligners to correct alignment and bite.
- Oral surgery: Extractions, wisdom tooth removal and treatment of jaw-related conditions, after evaluation.
- Pediatric dentistry: Preventive and restorative care for children.
- Oral diagnosis and imaging: Imaging to support diagnosis and treatment planning.
Dental Conditions Treated
The clinic’s dentists treat conditions including:
- Gum disease: From early inflammation to more advanced disease, with professional cleaning and periodontal therapy as advised.
- Tooth decay and infection: Fillings, root canal treatment or extraction, depending on the case.
- Misaligned teeth and bite problems: Braces or clear aligners, after an orthodontic assessment.
- Missing teeth: Restoring function and appearance through implants, bridges, or full-arch solutions.
- Dental anxiety: The team explains each step before it happens.
- Pediatric dental concerns: Cavities, injuries and developmental issues in children.
- TMJ and Jaw Disorders: Diagnosing and managing jaw pain, clicking, or restricted movement that affects chewing and speech.
Where a case needs a specialty the clinic doesn’t offer, your dentist will refer you.
Why You Should See a Dentist Regularly
Many people visit a dentist only when something hurts, but regular checkups help detect problems earlier.
- Early detection: Cavities, gum disease and changes in the mouth, including early signs of oral cancer, can develop without symptoms. An examination can detect them.
- Professional cleaning: Brushing and flossing can’t remove hardened tartar. Professional cleaning helps reduce the risk of gum disease and decay.
- Links to general health: Some conditions, including diabetes and certain vitamin deficiencies, can show signs in the mouth, and a dentist may suggest you see your doctor.
- Simpler treatment: A small cavity treated early often needs a simpler procedure than one found late.
- Continuity: A dentist who knows your history can plan your care with that information in mind.
How Often Should You Visit?
Most adults are advised to have a checkup every six months. The right interval depends on your oral health, and your dentist will recommend what suits you.
| Patient group | Commonly advised frequency |
| Healthy adults | Every 6 months |
| Children (from first tooth) | Every 6 months |
| Orthodontic patients (braces/aligners) | Every 4–6 weeks |
| Gum disease patients | Every 3–4 months |
| Dental implant patients | As advised by the treating dentist |
| Smokers, people with diabetes, pregnant women | More frequent visits may be advised |
Treatments and Technology
Dental technology supports diagnosis and treatment. Whether any of it is needed depends on your case, and your dentist will explain this.
- Laser dentistry: Used for selected gum and soft-tissue procedures where clinically suitable.
- Digital Smile Design: A digital preview to help plan cosmetic treatment. It is a simulation, and actual results vary.
- 3D imaging and guided planning: Imaging such as CBCT can help in planning certain procedures.
- Full-mouth rehabilitation: Combines several restorative treatments into one coordinated plan for patients who need extensive work.
- Sedation dentistry: May help anxious patients or those having longer procedures. Suitability is assessed individually, and sedation is given only by suitably qualified personnel.
- Clear aligners: An alternative to metal braces for suitable cases.
- Gum treatments: Procedures to treat gum disease, with the approach depending on how advanced it is.
Pediatric and Orthodontic Care at Rayen Dental Care Centre
Baby teeth matter for chewing, speech and holding space for permanent teeth. Pediatric care at the clinic is provided by dentists with an MDS in the specialty, and the team section above lists their qualifications. Care for children includes:
- Preventive treatment, such as cleaning, sealants and fluoride application
- Early detection of cavities and alignment concerns
- Treatment of cavities, dental injuries and developmental issues
- Guidance for parents on brushing, diet and habits such as thumb-sucking
What a child’s first visit may involve:
- A gentle introduction to the clinic, which may involve only sitting in the chair and seeing the tools
- A check for cavities, gum health, bite and jaw development
- Preventive care, where appropriate
- Advice for parents on home care
For children and teenagers who may need orthodontic care, the dentists assess bite and jaw development and explain the options. Dr. Roshan Rayen has additional training in orthodontics through POS.
How to Prepare for Your First Visit
- Bring your medical history: Note any allergies, medicines or existing health conditions.
- Write down your concerns: List any pain, sensitivity or other issues, so nothing is missed.
- Ask about pre-visit instructions: If sedation or a procedure is planned, check whether you need to avoid eating or drinking beforehand.
- Arrive early: This leaves time to complete forms and settle in.
- Prepare children with positive language: Describe the visit in simple, friendly terms, such as getting a “sparkly clean smile”.
- Carry previous records or X-rays: This helps the dentist see your history and avoid repeating scans that aren’t needed.
- Ask questions: You should understand the procedure, timeline and cost before you agree.
What to Expect at a Dental Clinic
- Consultation and examination: The dentist reviews your symptoms and medical history and examines your mouth.
- Diagnosis and treatment planning: The findings are explained and a treatment plan is prepared.
- Explanation of the procedure: The dentist explains the recommended treatment, its duration, the estimated cost, the risks and the alternatives.
- Treatment: Carried out step by step, with pain management discussed beforehand.
- Aftercare guidance: You receive instructions on medicines, diet and oral care.
Cost of Dental Treatment
The cost of dental treatment depends on the type of procedure, the complexity of the case, the materials used, the technology involved and the number of visits. Routine procedures such as fillings and cleaning generally cost less than procedures that take more time or need more planning, such as root canal treatment or surgery. Whichever clinic you choose, ask for an itemized written estimate before treatment begins.
Finding the Right Dentist in India: What to Check
- Qualifications and registration: Ask for the registration number and the qualifications listed, and verify them with the State Dental Council.
- Specialty: Check that the dentist’s specialty matches your need (pediatric, orthodontic, oral surgery and so on).
- Accreditation: If a clinic mentions accreditation, ask for the certificate number, the standards and the accredited scope, and verify it with the issuing body.
- Hygiene practices: Ask about autoclave sterilization and single-use disposables.
- Treatment plan: You should receive a plan based on your needs, with options explained.
- Communication: Look for a clinic that explains your diagnosis, options, risks and costs clearly.
- Independent reviews: Read reviews on independent platforms such as Google and Practo, to see a range of opinions.
- Written estimate: Ask for an itemized estimate before treatment starts.
Tips to Maintain Good Oral Health
- Brush twice a day for about two minutes with a fluoride toothpaste.
- Clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes.
- Limit sugary foods and acidic drinks.
- Avoid tobacco in any form.
- Stay hydrated and eat a balanced diet.
- Keep to a regular checkup schedule rather than waiting for symptoms.
Dental Emergencies: When to Seek Prompt Care
See a dentist or emergency service promptly if you have:
- Severe or persistent toothache
- Facial swelling
- A knocked-out or broken tooth after an injury
- Bleeding that doesn’t stop after an extraction
- Fever along with a dental infection
If a permanent tooth is knocked out, handle it by the crown (not the root), avoid scrubbing it, and seek dental care immediately.
Conclusion
Oral health is an important part of overall well-being. Regular checkups, timely treatment and good hygiene help maintain healthy teeth and gums. When choosing a dentist in India, check the registration and qualifications, ask about hygiene practices and any accreditation, and get a written estimate before you commit.
Rayen Dental Care Centre in Chennai offers general dentistry, pediatric dentistry, orthodontics, oral surgery, and oral diagnosis and radiology. To schedule a consultation, call +91 90038 79676 or book an appointment online.
