Mirian Gom 
LAGOS, Nigeria – Smile360 Dental Specialists has raised concerns over Nigeria’s worsening shortage of dentists and orthodontic specialists, warning that the migration of healthcare professionals abroad is deepening the country’s oral healthcare crisis.
Chief Executive Officer of Smile360, Amy Shumbusho, sounded the alarm during the celebration of World Orthodontic Health Day in Lagos.
The event, themed “Beyond Straight Teeth,” also featured the presentation of treatment awards to winners of the company’s “Project Smile” initiative.
Speaking at the event, Shumbusho said orthodontics extends beyond cosmetic appearance, stressing that healthy smiles significantly affect confidence, emotional well-being and overall quality of life.
“When you have a beautiful smile, you know the impact it has on your self-esteem and confidence level,” she said.
“Health is not just the absence of disease. It also has to do with mental health and well-being.”
She noted that growing awareness driven by social media and online health information had triggered a surge in demand for orthodontic care across Nigeria.
“There is definitely a drought of professionals. We know japa syndrome is there and the number of orthodontists is still very small,” she said.
According to her, Smile360 linked its “Project Smile” campaign to global orthodontic awareness efforts because many applicants required life-changing corrective dental procedures.
The initiative invited Nigerians to submit personal stories explaining how improved smiles could transform their confidence, careers and opportunities.
Shumbusho disclosed that the treatment packages awarded to winners were valued at more than ₦20 million.
Also speaking, Smile360 Chief Human Resource Officer Joel Okwuoha cited Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria figures showing that one dentist currently serves more than 10,000 Nigerians.
“There needs to be more conscious engagement to encourage young Nigerians to study dentistry and specialise in orthodontics,” he said.
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Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Hussaini Ibrahim