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Fadekemi Ajakaiye

The Nigerian Association of Orthodontists (NAO) will mark its 20th anniversary with a renewed call for ethical practice, scientific advancement and responsible adoption of technology in orthodontic care.

The Association’s 20th Annual Meeting and Scientific Conference, themed “360-Degree Orthodontics: Experience, Ethics & Excellence,” will hold from September 28 to 30, 2026, at the Radisson Blu, Victoria Island, Lagos.

National President of the NAO, Prof. Idia Nibokun Ize-Iyamu, said the anniversary was an opportunity not only to celebrate two decades of professional development but also to examine the future direction of orthodontics in Nigeria.

According to her, the specialty has moved beyond the traditional perception of simply straightening teeth, with orthodontic care now encompassing diagnosis, dental and facial development, oral function, confidence and quality of life.

“Behind every smile we transform is a human being who has placed an important part of their health and wellbeing in our hands,” Ize-Iyamu said, stressing that such responsibility requires sound judgement, continuous learning and a commitment to patients’ best interests.

She said the conference theme was deliberately designed to examine orthodontics from a broader perspective, including clinical experience, professional ethics, decision-making and standards of care.

Ize-Iyamu noted that rapid developments in digital technology, advanced diagnostics and emerging treatment approaches were expanding the possibilities available to orthodontists, but cautioned that technological advancement should not replace professional judgement.

“Technology may show us what we can do; professional judgement must determine what we should do,” she said.

The NAO president said innovation must remain grounded in evidence, sound clinical judgement and patient welfare, adding that the future of orthodontics would depend on how responsibly emerging technologies are adopted.

The three-day conference is expected to bring together orthodontists, dental and medical professionals, academics, researchers, trainees, invited experts and partners for scientific presentations and professional discussions.

According to the Association, the meeting will provide an avenue for participants to examine emerging evidence, question established assumptions and share practical knowledge that can improve patient care.

Ize-Iyamu also emphasised the importance of creating stronger pathways for younger orthodontists through mentorship, research and continuous professional development.

She said the responsibility of the profession extended beyond practitioners to the wider public, noting that patients deserved orthodontic treatment that was safe, competent, ethical and respectful of human dignity.

The NAO president said the Association would continue to promote high professional standards, advance scientific knowledge and strengthen collaboration among dentistry, medicine and academia.

She added that the 20th anniversary should serve as a foundation for building a profession that is more ethical, innovative and better prepared for future generations.

“Twenty years gave us a foundation; the future demands that we build higher,” Ize-Iyamu said.