The department deals with the characteristics, causes, process and effects of diseases of the oral cavity and the associated structures. It attempts an understanding of oral disease to aid in the diagnosis and appropriate management of the same. The subject also encompasses a learning of the sub-specialties that include Oral Histology, Oral Embryology, Oral Physiology, Oral Microbiology and Forensic Odontology.  

The aim is to develop and maintain standards of excellence in teaching, histopathological interpretation, diagnosis, and research. Besides the regular equipment required for the successful running of the services provided, the department also has a Fluorescence Microscope that is utilized in research in fields of Endodontics and Restorative Dentistry.   

Besides the primary aim of being an effective teaching department, we also engage in research with the current focus being in the areas of oral cancer, pre-cancer, oral microbiology, especially HIV and the immune status related to such conditions.