Embrace Life-Changing Benefits Of Orthodontic Care, Prof Ajayi Advises Nigerians

A foremost Nigerian orthodontist, Emmanuel Olubusayo Ajayi, has urged Nigerians to embrace orthodontic care, stressing that treatment goes far beyond achieving straight teeth and plays a crucial role in overall health, confidence, and quality of life.

Ajayi, a Consultant Orthodontist, Professor of Orthodontics at the University of Benin, and a pioneer Nigerian Fellow of the World Federation of Orthodontists, made the call on Friday during the global celebration of the 2026 World Orthodontic Health Day 2026, themed “Beyond Straight Teeth.”

According to him, orthodontic care has far-reaching benefits that influence how individuals chew, breathe, speak, and smile, while also improving oral health, facial balance, self-confidence, and long-term well-being.

He noted that orthodontic problems remain prevalent in society and can negatively affect social interaction and self-esteem when left untreated.

“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 a 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 discipline.

The professor further stated that studies have shown that properly aligned teeth contribute significantly to facial aesthetics and enhanced oral function, adding that orthodontic treatment can improve facial appearance, oral health, and overall quality of life.

He said the annual World Orthodontic Health Day, led by the World Federation of Orthodontists, provides an opportunity to educate the public that Orthodontics — a sub-specialty of Dentistry — delivers benefits far beyond cosmetic tooth alignment.

Ajayi explained that this year’s theme, “Beyond Straight Teeth,” highlights the wider impact of orthodontic treatment using braces, aligners, removable appliances, and other mechanotherapies, noting that such treatments are not merely cosmetic but are essential to improved oral and facial health.