About the author
Dr. Riaz Abdulla
Dr. Riaz Abdulla (BDS, MDS in Oral Pathology and Microbiology) is a distinguished academic leader serving as Professor & Head in the Department of Oral Pathology at Yenepoya Dental College and Director of the Centre for Biomaterials & Research. With 25 years of teaching experience, Dr. Abdulla has educated generations of dental students while maintaining an impressive research portfolio focused on oral cancer, radiation dosimetry, cleft genetics, and cellular morphology. A graduate of A.B. Shetty Memorial Institute of Dental Sciences (Nitte University), his scholarly contributions include approximately 50 publications and four patents, including an Australian patent as first inventor. Dr. Abdulla's research excellence has been recognized through grants from prestigious organizations like ICMR, DST, and BIRAC. Beyond academia, he demonstrates entrepreneurial leadership as founder of health startup MASHAA RADPRO Pvt Ltd and Managing Director of Smile Care Clinics. His roles as PhD guide, Ethics Committee Chairperson, and Past President of the Indian Dental Association (DK) reflect his commitment to advancing dental education, research, and clinical practice across multiple domains.
Dr. Shakil M
Dr. Shakil M. (BDS, MDS in Oral Pathology) is an accomplished dental educator and researcher with extensive international experience. After completing his undergraduate studies at Krishnadevaraya College of Dental Sciences, Bangalore, and his Master's degree at Yenepoya Dental College, Mangalore, he was appointed by the Ministry of Education in Saudi Arabia where he served at the prestigious Qassim University for eight years. Currently an Associate Professor in the Department of Oral Pathology and Microbiology at Yenepoya Dental College, Dr. Shakil combines academic excellence with innovative research approaches. His contributions to dental science include a patent, numerous publications in national and international journals, and service as a reviewer for several specialty journals. Dr. Shakil's forward-thinking approach to dental education incorporates educational medical robots, extended reality, and artificial intelligence—reflecting his commitment to advancing teaching methodologies and preparing students for the evolving landscape of dental practice through technologically enhanced learning experiences.
Dr. Hassan Imran Mohtesham
Dr. Hassan Imran Mohtesham (BDS, MDS in Oral Pathology) is a distinguished educator and researcher who has made significant contributions to the field of Oral Pathology following his education at Yenepoya Dental College, Mangalore. Specializing in the diagnosis and study of oral diseases, Dr. Imran has developed particular expertise in oral cancer, bacterial and fungal infections, and dental caries, with his PhD thesis exploring the role of Nigella sativa seed in oral health. As an active member of both the Indian Dental Association and the Indian Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Pathologists, he remains at the forefront of advances in his field. Dr. Imran's teaching methodology transforms complex histopathological concepts into accessible knowledge, emphasizing critical thinking and diagnostic skills development. His approach to education combines rigorous academic standards with practical clinical insights, creating a structured learning environment that resonates with dental students. Through his research, mentorship, and educational materials, Dr. Imran continues to shape the next generation of oral pathologists while advancing scientific understanding of oral diseases.
Dr. Devika Jayarajan
Dr. Devika Jayarajan (BDS, MDS in Oral & Maxillofacial Pathology, PGDFAO) is a multifaceted dental specialist whose expertise spans pathology, research, and education. A graduate of SRM University for her undergraduate degree and Yenepoya University for her Master's, she has enhanced her qualifications with a Postgraduate Diploma in Forensic Anthropology and Odontology—reflecting her interdisciplinary approach to dental sciences. Dr. Jayarajan's research contributions include significant work on COX-2 expression in oral epithelial dysplasia and oral cancers, with publications covering oral potentially malignant disorders and emerging trends in dental education. Her specialized training at Tata Memorial Centre and expertise in molecular biology techniques have strengthened her diagnostic and analytical capabilities. As an educator, she has developed a structured, research-driven approach to teaching that transforms complex concepts in dental anatomy and histology into accessible knowledge. Dr. Jayarajan's experience in mentoring students, reviewing scientific manuscripts, and contributing to forensic documentation demonstrates her commitment to advancing dental education and practice through comprehensive yet practical educational materials.