A leading Nigerian orthodontist, Prof. Emmanuel Olubusayo Ajayi, has urged Nigerians to embrace orthodontic care, stressing that treatment extends beyond cosmetic improvement and plays a vital role in overall health, confidence and quality of life.
Ajayi, a Consultant Orthodontist, Professor of Orthodontics at the University of Benin and pioneer Nigerian Fellow of the World Federation of Orthodontists, made the appeal on Friday during the 2026 celebration of World Orthodontic Health Day 2026 themed, “Beyond Straight Teeth.”
According to him, orthodontic treatment offers far-reaching benefits that affect chewing, breathing, speech and smiling, while also enhancing oral health, facial balance, self-esteem and long-term wellbeing.
He noted that untreated orthodontic conditions remain common in society and can negatively impact social interactions and emotional wellbeing.
“Orthodontic problems which are prevalent in our society do constitute a great concern as the inability to chew one’s food without difficulties, breathe normally, communicate orally and pronounce words correctly and smile without pleasing facial appearance will definitely impact productive social interactions, self-esteem, overall health and well-being of individuals,” he said.
Ajayi advised Nigerians seeking orthodontic treatment to consult qualified Dental Surgeons who have undergone specialised postgraduate and residency training in Orthodontics at recognised University Teaching Hospitals.
He explained that specialist orthodontists typically complete between three and six years of postgraduate Master’s degree and residency training in the field.
The professor further stated that research has shown that properly aligned teeth contribute significantly to improved facial aesthetics and oral function, adding that orthodontic treatment can enhance facial appearance, oral health and overall quality of life.
He said the annual World Orthodontic Health Day, organised by the World Federation of Orthodontists, serves as a platform to educate the public on the broader health benefits of Orthodontics, a sub-specialty of Dentistry.
Ajayi added that this year’s theme, “Beyond Straight Teeth,” underscores the wider impact of orthodontic treatments such as braces, aligners, removable appliances and other mechanotherapies, noting that such procedures are essential to improved oral and facial health and not merely cosmetic interventions.
