An interactive academic session was conducted by the Department of Periodontology, Manipal College of Dental Sciences, Mangalore, for postgraduate students on 9.06.25, featuring our distinguished alumna Dr. Ankita Thyagi, a graduate of our undergraduate program(2009 batch), Currently, she holds the position of Regional Medical Advisor for South India with Abbott Healthcare, where she actively contributes to professional education through the Dent Edge program under Abbott Orocare.

The session focused on the theme “Role of Antibiotics in Periodontology: Clinical Insights and Current Perspectives” and aimed to enhance the students’ understanding of antibiotic use in periodontal therapy. Dr. Ankita provided a comprehensive overview of the classification and clinical indications of antibiotics, discussed systemic versus local application, and highlighted evidence-based protocols through real-life case presentations. Emphasis was laid on the importance of antibiotic stewardship, minimizing overprescription, and recognizing the role of host and microbial factors in guiding therapy. The session also included an engaging Q&A segment where students shared clinical experiences and received valuable insights. The interactive session successfully bridged theoretical knowledge with clinical application and reinforced the importance of rational antibiotic use in preventing resistance, thereby enriching the academic and clinical perspectives of the postgraduate students.