The field of preventive dentistry as the name suggests, is primarily involved with the prevention, diagnosis, and management of oral health problems in children, adolescents, and individuals with special health care needs. 

When treating children or individuals with special health care needs, it is crucial to ensure that everything — right from the environment to the treatment plan — is designed keeping the care and comfort of the patient in mind. The Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry focuses on inculcating this patient-first approach in its students. 

Students are taught by academicians and practitioners with years of rich experience in the field. They are also given the chance to observe theoretical learning in application at the Ramaiah Dental Hospital. The programs offered by the Department adopt a comprehensive approach to dental education and cover a wide range of topics from patient education and investigations to preventive services and treatments.

Students also participate in the community engagement activities of the Department, which include screening camps for students of government schools and providing free treatment to Government school children and underprivileged children under ​“DANTA KAVACHA” program. The department has a MOU with the Government of Karnataka for this program. Under the ​“AASARE” program, individuals with special health care needs are treated under general anesthesia.