Rooted in Tradition, Driven by Innovation

Posted by : Admin Posted on : 13 Jan 2025

- Dr. Gresha Shrestha

Walking through the narrow alleys and bustling markets of Ason, Chhetrapati, and Indrachowk, one encounters a sacred site at the intersection: Bangemuda Washya Dyo. The air is thick with the aroma of spices, the clang of metalworkers shaping their wares, and the constant hum of life that defines Kathmandu’s heart.

Nestled among the chaos stands the wooden deity, Bangemuda Washya Dyo. Its form is a marvel of local devotion. Its trunk, a gnarled and weathered relic, is adorned with thousands of nailed coins—offerings from countless believers seeking relief from the agony of toothaches. The coins glimmer in the sunlight, forming a mosaic of hopes and prayers.

Nearby, delicate clay bowls known as Kislis cradle offerings of rice and betel nuts, alongside more coins, reflecting the generosity of those who have found solace here. Locals fervently pray to the god for relief from toothaches, seeking solace through divine intervention. This belief is deeply ingrained in the fabric of their daily lives.

Legend whispers that Bangemuda Washya Dyo is a fragment of Kalpabrikshya, the mythical tree said to have been used to build Kasthamandap, the iconic pagoda that shines in the center of Kathmandu’s Durbar Square. Its history intertwines with the city’s ancient roots, a testament to Nepal’s rich cultural heritage.

Inspired by Washya Dyo, the ancient deity renowned for alleviating tooth pain, a group of progressive and forward thinking dentists in Nepal institutionalized this age-old tradition into a beacon of modern healthcare excellence by establishing the National Dental Hospital in 1997—the first dental hospital in the country. At the National Dental Hospital, we honor our traditions while embracing modern science. We provide comprehensive, patient-centric treatment while following the principles of "do no harm dentistry”.

Just as ancient wisdom teaches, "God helps those who help themselves," we believe that taking the initiative to seek proper dental treatment is a step towards healing. Our hospital is a glimmer of hope, where advanced technology meets compassionate care, ensuring your dental health is in safe hands.

Walking through the doors of the National Dental Hospital, it felt like stepping into a whole new world where dentistry meets the future. I was enveloped in a warm, homely, yet highly professional atmosphere, equipped with cutting-edge technology.

The seniors treated me not as a novice fresh out of dental school but as a potential colleague. They were mentors who encouraged and guided me without discrimination, even though I lacked experience. Their emphasis on quality over quantity was crystal clear in every aspect of their work, from patient management to all aspects of their treatment protocol.

The technology at the hospital was something I had never encountered before. Equipment and tools are advanced and efficient, aiding in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.

Speaking of patients, the relationship between them and the doctors was a testament to professionalism infused with empathy. Every interaction I observed or was a part of was characterized by a deep respect for the patient's dignity and a commitment to their well-being. Their motto wasn't just fixing teeth; it was about restoring confidence and comfort, where aesthetics and health go hand in hand.

Being a fresher, I initially wondered if I would be given meaningful responsibilities. However, joining the team at the National Dental Hospital turned out to be quite different. They are constantly invested in my growth, patiently training me to become a better dental practitioner. They didn't rush me into handling patients independently, understanding that mastering the craft requires time, dedication, and, most importantly, patience. Within two weeks, my senior colleagues guided me with using the new technologies and following MiCD Care protocols that the hospital’s treatment is based on. They had a simple motto: loving juniors, respecting seniors, and prioritizing competency.

Unlike traditional hospitals where doctors are often ranked by seniority or hierarchy, National Dental Hospital employs a system based purely on skill and efficacy; the skills are categorized into three levels: basic, intermediate, and advanced. An additional perk is their emphasis on developing soft skills—something that is especially helpful for me as I hope to be a skilled dentist, but also a professional and empathetic practitioner.

The hospital's commitment to social responsibility is what made me feel like it was the modern reincarnation of Washya Dyo. The regularity with which the hospital’s social service wing took charity cases and supported patients who couldn't truly afford dental care and lacked confidence to smile was such a humble gesture towards society. It was inspiring to see how the hospital integrated humanitarian values into professional practice.

In conclusion, my time at the National Dental Hospital has been metamorphic. It's not just a dental hospital; it's a community where innovation meets compassion, where learning meets experience, and where every day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth. I feel lucky to be part of such a team that not only shapes me as a dentist but also instills in me a deeper appreciation for the impact we can have on people's lives as doctors.