WORLD ORTHODONTIC HEALTH DAY: NAO President Urges Nigerians to Prioritise Oral Health

The President of the Nigerian Association of Orthodontists (NAO), Idia Ize-Iyamu, has urged Nigerians to prioritise oral health by seeking professional dental care and avoiding unqualified practitioners.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu made the call on Friday as the global community commemorated World Orthodontic Health Day, stressing the importance of regular dental check-ups and proper orthodontic care.

According to her, orthodontists help individuals seeking corrective dental treatment achieve healthy smiles that boost confidence and improve personality.

A healthy smile often depends on more than correcting the alignment of teeth, since dental concerns can develop between routine appointments and affect a person’s comfort or ability to carry out daily activities.

Knowing where to turn when a problem needs immediate attention is therefore another part of responsible oral care. The role of an Emergency Dentist DFW reflects the need for timely professional assessment when dental pain becomes difficult to manage or an injury puts a tooth at risk.

Prompt treatment can help identify the cause of the problem and determine whether urgent intervention is needed, rather than allowing the condition to worsen while waiting for a scheduled visit.

This complements the emphasis orthodontists place on regular check-ups and qualified care, as both preventive attention and a suitable response to unexpected dental problems help people protect their oral health over time.

The NAO President, who is also the Chief Medical Director of University of Benin Teaching Hospital, said the annual event serves as a platform to unite orthodontists, patients, and the public in promoting proper teeth alignment and overall oral health.

She explained that World Orthodontic Health Day, observed every May 15, is organised by the World Federation of Orthodontists as a global initiative to celebrate the transformative impact of orthodontic treatment.

Prof. Ize-Iyamu added that University of Benin Teaching Hospital and other teaching hospitals across the country are marking the day to raise awareness on how orthodontics can enhance well-being, improve confidence, and increase the overall quality of life for individuals worldwide.