DENTAL PUBLIC HEALTH SPECIALTY CAPACITY IN NIGERIA: REFLECTIONS ON THE PAST, CURRENT SITUATION, AND PROJECTIONS FOR THE FUTURE

Abstract

Background: Oral health is critical for overall well-being, yet many Nigerians face challenges in accessing care, leading to widespread untreated oral health diseases like caries and periodontal diseases. The role of Dental Public Health (DPH) is vital in addressing these disparities, but the capacity of Nigeria’s dental workforce, particularly in DPH, has not been thoroughly explored.

Aim: This study assesses the capacity of Nigeria's dental workforce in addressing the country’s oral health challenges, focusing on the availability and training of Dental Public Health professionals.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from May to October 2023 using secondary data from the Nigerian Dental Association, dental institutions, and professional networks. Data on dentists' qualifications, specialties, and employment locations were collected. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse frequencies and proportions of relevant variables.

Results: A record of 697 dentists was obtained, among which 61.4% were male, and 10.3% held titles of Professor/Associate Professor. Public health-related training or qualifications were held by 28.0% of dentists. Educationally, 25.8% had a Master’s degree, and 4.0% possessed a PhD. In terms of specialization, 37.4% were General Dental Practitioners (without additional qualifications), while 6.6% specialized in Community Dentistry (Dental Public Health). Most dentists (60.1%) worked in teaching hospitals or academic.