An Update on Orthodontic Manpower and Practice in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: There has been a steady and progressive growth in the training and practice of orthodontics and the number of
Orthodontists in Nigeria have increased over the years. Numerous adolescents and adults have become more concerned about their
appearance and are seeking and demanding orthodontic care. The objective of the study was to assess the level of training and practice among orthodontists in Nigeria. Challenges were also identified.
fethods: A29-item survey was conducted among orthodontic practitioners at the annual meeting of the Nigerian Association of
Orthodontists (NAO), which held in Lagos in October 2014. Responses obtained were entered into a computer and results
analyzed. Basic statistics including chi-square comparative analyses were performed.
Results: A total of 80 questionnaires were sent out in all; and 71 completed and returned witha 88.8% response rate. Thirty six orthodontists (24 females and 12 males)and 35 residents (18 females and 17 males) participated in the study; total o f 42 females and 29 males. Ages of the respondents ranged from 28-64 years with a mean age of 41.50.8.20 years. Eight training institutions were identified in Nigeria. Majority of respondents were trained in Lagos University Teaching Hospital, Lagos. Over 90% of qualified orthodontists received their training in Nigeria. Duration of training ranged between 5 and 8 years. Orthodontic treatment in Nigeria is mostly financed from patient or family/guardian funds and this makes it difficult for those that need orthodontic care to afford treatment. Many adult patients who are 18 years of age or older make up a reasonable percentage of those treated by orthodontic practitioner and fixed appliances alone are therefore a commonly utilized treatment modality. Of adjuncts to orthodontic care. temporary anchorage devices and clear aligner therapy are the most prevalent in use by majority of orthodontists in Nigeria. The knowledge on the use of temporary anchor devices is on the increase among orthodontists in Nigeria.
Conclusions: The present state of orthodontic practice in Nigeria is a welcome development. However, the duration of training
should be looked into to foster exponential phenomenon in the dimension of growth of the specialty.