THE Association of Dental Technologists of Nigeria (ADTN) has expressed deep concern regarding the recent introduction of the nomenclature “dental surgery technology” by the Dental Therapists Registration Board of Nigeria (DTHRBN).
ADTN, at the end of its 36th scientific conference and annual general meeting of the association at the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital Complex (OAUTHC), Ile-Ife, Osun State, said it viewed this nomenclature as a misrepresentation of the core competencies and scope of practice of dental technology professionals.
The National President of ADTN, Comrade Stephen Eyarefe, said in a communiqué at the end of the meeting, which was jointly signed with Comr. Haruna Jethro, that the proposed nomenclature has the potential to erode the professional identity of dental technologists and undermine the integrity of the dental technology profession in Nigeria.
He said that dental technology is a specialised field that requires a unique set of skills and knowledge to design, fabricate, and repair dental prostheses and appliances and urged the DTHRBN to reconsider its decision and respect the established boundaries and scope of practice of dental technology.
According to Comrade Eyarefe, “ADTN remains committed to protecting the interests of dental technologists and ensuring the highest standards of oral healthcare in Nigeria.
“In this regard, the public should note that the nomenclature dental surgery technology is unfounded and should not be applauded by Nigerians as it negates global acceptance. The globally accepted nomenclature for this category of professionals is dentistry is dental surgery assistance.”
On the state of the nation, he said that the economic hardships, including rising inflation and fuel scarcity, and security concerns, particularly in the northeast and northwest regions, remain a pressing issue.
He, however, charged the government to pursue programmes of livelihood for citizens and to pay attention to the plights of health workers, especially dental technologists, so as to give them a common ground for productivity in the healthcare sector.
The conference concluded with a call to action, urging dental technologists to actively engage in advocacy and political processes to improve the profession and enhance patient care. Also, 15 individuals were inducted into the fellowship of ADTN.
Read Also: FBN Holdings set to exceed recapitalisation requirement