15th Annual Scientific Conference and 5th Alumni Guest Lecture, hosted by The Faculty of Dental Sciences, College of Medicine, from August 16 to 17. The conference was themed "Oral Health in the 21st Century."

 Good morning, today is Friday, August 18, 2023. The topic of discussion in the College of Medicine once again centers around Artificial Intelligence (AI). This signifies that the trajectory of the future does not solely lie in the “online” domain; rather, it rests upon the promising horizon of "The Future is AI” the underlying theme of the 15th Annual Scientific Conference and 5th Alumni Guest Lecture, hosted by The Faculty of Dental Sciences, College of Medicine, from August 16 to 17. The conference was themed "Oral Health in the 21st Century."

Dr. Bola Soyombo, an alumnus of the institution, class of 1986, served as the Keynote Speaker and 5th Alumni Guest Lecturer. She delivered a comprehensive discourse on the subject of Dental Education, Dental Patient Care, and Business Models. Complementing this, Dr. Amy Traore Shumbusho, the Guest Speaker, addressed the topic of "Artificial Intelligence In Dentistry."

Before delving into a concise overview of their presentations, it is pertinent to acknowledge the historical roots of the Faculty of Dental Sciences. Its origins trace back to its inception as a Department of Dentistry in 1964 under the leadership of Professor J. W. Fox Taylor, who served as the inaugural Professor and Head. Furthermore, Professor Taylor held the position of Head, School of Dental Sciences from 1965 to 1971. Over subsequent years, it emerged as the sole School of Dentistry in Sub-Saharan Africa. Presently, under the stewardship of the current Dean, Professor Oluranti Olatokunbo da Costa, the Faculty of Dental Sciences continues to stand as the preeminent authority in dental practice within Nigeria.

During the opening remarks of her keynote address, Dr. Soyombo presented a somber statistic indicating that nearly half of the global population is afflicted by oral diseases. Within this context, it was revealed that 2.5 billion individuals are grappling with severe gum disease, 350 million have experienced complete tooth loss, and 380 thousand are dealing with oral malignancies. However, there is a glimmer of hope in the form of preventable and treatable measures for oral diseases.

Dr. Soyombo's strategic framework for change in dentistry encompasses three fundamental drivers: Firstly, addressing evolving population needs involves enhancing adult oral health, combating disparities, accommodating aging demographics, emphasizing prevention, and integrating oral health into overall healthcare. Secondly, in terms of financial support and resources, rectifying dental professional distribution gaps, countering reduced dental school enrollment, managing the cessation of aid for therapists and hygienists, promoting apprenticeships, and navigating diverse pricing and commissioning models are crucial. Thirdly, workforce advancement entails expanding Dental Care Professionals' (DCP) roles, redefining dental therapists' skillsets, broadening tier 2 competencies for dentists, and elevating the proficiency of DCPs.

She added that the concept of 'modern' dentistry can be encapsulated as follows: “Modern dentistry” constitutes a paradigm shift. It transcends the conventional approach of merely advocating brushing and flossing. Modern dentistry embodies a collaborative approach to healthcare delivery. Rigorous training in contemporary methodologies serves to attract and retain exemplary professionals who are integral to this collective endeavor. A modern dentist functions as a specialist in orofacial healthcare. This evolution underscores the essence of modern dentistry.

With regard to the evolving business models within the realm of Dentistry, Dr. Soyombo highlighted evolving dental business models encompassing traditional vs. modern approaches, patient-centered care, wellness models, evidence-based practices, TeleDentistry, subscription-based services, and integrated care.

The guest lecturer, Dr. Shumbusho, commenced her discourse by invoking a quote: "Predicting the future isn't magic; it's artificial intelligence" (Dave Walters). She said that the transformation of dental care is a direct consequence of AI's influence on the training, diagnosis, and treatment of various outcomes. Drawing from Dr. Soyombo's presentation on "modern dentistry," she said that AI has been embraced across diverse dental specialties, including operative dentistry, periodontics, orthodontics, oral and maxillofacial surgery, and prosthodontics. Employing AI algorithms, it becomes feasible to accurately detect cavities, gum disease, and other dental ailments. Dr. Shumbusho concluded her lecture by invoking the wisdom of Albert Einstein: "The measure of intelligence is the capacity to change."

In summary, both Dr. Soyombo's and Dr. Shumbusho's intertwined perspectives compel us to champion innovation and holistic healthcare for a brighter future.

Professor Abayomi Okanlawon, FAMedS.

Refurbishment of Student Pros Lab November 2015

The first time the place was opened to students was 1998 and since then no repair until now. Looks like tetfund is working. Photos show before and during refurbishment of the lab which was 40 seater but now 56 seater.

CONVERSATION 2: DENTIST and TECHNOLOGIST

Dentist: Mr John how are you?
Technologist: I am very fine and was just reminisce  on our discussions in the last meeting.
Dentist: What is it to talk about or deserving so much attention?
Technologists: Suggestions and discussions on forming a discussion group/forum to chart a new course for the future of dentistry. It was heated and interesting.
Dentist: That was a thoughtful reminder. I think we need to really discuss the future of dentistry. It cannot be done successfully except in a larger house.
Technologist: All hands must be on deck but one thing I observed is apathy towards meetings and it cut across. Sometimes I wondered what is the problem with dental professionals top to bottom
Dentist: I do agree with you but what do you think is the way out?
Technologist: Tenacity of purpose, focused leadership and mutual regard for every member of the team.
Dentist: Suggestions on a common regulatory body has been muted by some of us but how prepared are we to make this happen?
Technologist: Big question.
Dentist: In Britain a good example has been laid. Although there are dissenting voices but on average dentistry faired well. We cannot compare our dentistry with theirs in all ramifications. They have their own issues though but they were reduced to surmountable sizes.
Technologist: It will take a huge sacrifice and mutual respect. Honestly, the dental profession suppose to be the most lucrative profession given our population and the poor prevalence of oral hygiene in our population. Every human being has teeth and hence he is a potential patient.
Dentist: I am not sure we are prepared to leave Medical and dental Council. Feelers show that there are many benefits accruing to us and leaving for a general dental council might rob us of the those benefits.
Technologist: I said earlier that it will require a huge sacrifice by all. Other members of the profession already have regulatory body and if they have to merge to form a general dental council it is indeed a huge sacrifice.
Dentist: Leaders of thoughts in the dental profession would have to get the process started.
Technologist: Who then will bell the cat? I observed painfully that dental departments in our establishments nationwide are treated as second fiddle when compared with our medical counterparts. Our demands for facilities and things to work with generally are often placed behind the burner. This is obvious truth if we are prepared to face the truth. Sometimes I wonder what is the problem with the dental profession.
Dentist: Indeed we have an axe to grind.
Technologist: Let me suggest we approach some of our elders in the profession for advice. But if we eventually have a general dental council in Nigeria do we all have the right attitude and mutual respect for one another to foster a great future for dentistry?

NOISE POLLUTION

It is incredible the level of pollution we experience in our cities in Nigeria. Noise pollution is a global problem especially in cities around the world but it is annoying when noise from man made equipment which ought to be controlled is left uncontrolled.

Noise pollution from electric generators across Nigeria forms one menace that is common in knowledge to all Nigerians. Then noise from loud speakers in our bus stops from touts calling passengers' attention to various destinations is another avoidable noise that has not attracted the attention of our governments. It is apparent that no serious attention has been given to this by our governments for along time and that may be responsible for why anyone hardly talks about it. Although the previous governor of Lagos state made efforts at stopping noise from worship centres but little was achieved from this.

One important note is noise from commercial vehicles. This is indeed worrisome. I was returning home one day and the driver placed a big speaker under a seat beside me and the volume was at the highest. All entreaties to persuade the driver to reduce the volume fell on deaf ears. This is a common occurrence in Lagos. Noise from kiosk selling pirated CD of music and play from popular artistes at bus stop and various other places is no doubt a great concern to the city dwellers.

When shall we overcome this?

Another noise pollution concern that  seems unavoidable come from even homes of Nigerians who must own an electric generator as government have tried unsuccessfully to provide electricity for her teeming population.
The picture below shows some electric generators around a building where some computer operators do their businesses. The noise disturbance is better experienced than imagined.
Noise pollution seems to have become a normal thing to many Nigerians. This can be likened to a community near a refuse dump sites where stenches from the dump is no longer perceived by the inhabitants because they got used to it but were surprised when a newcomer closes his nostril when passing by. Anyone around in the community may probably wonder what is the problem with the passerby. Lagosians seem to be used to noise such that they are no longer disturbed by it. No wonder an average Lagosians are always judged as apprehensive, hypertensive and restless. A keen observer will notice this easily. Except the little attempt made by the government of Mr Raji Fashola no government has taken noise pollution serious if am not mistaken even around the country. To those who are not used to noise it is easy to be restless when in a noisy environment. The menace of noise pollution to human health and wellbeing is well established in the literature and that is why it is a huge surprise that the ministry of environment has not been doing anything about it. Do we even have a policy on noise pollution?
I attributed the aggressive behaviour of Lagos commercial bus drivers to a large extent to noise pollution. Can you imagine being exposed to noise every moment of the day? That is the life of motorists in Lagos specially bus drivers and commutters. 

Hazard in The Dental Lab

One of the HAZARDS in the dental Laboratory. A dental technologist trimming a metallic appliance. Serious sparks were generated during this process which can constitute danger in the lab

CONVERSATION: DENTIST and TECHNOLOGIST

Dentist: Good morning Mr John

Technologist: Very well. I hope you had a restful night?

Dentist: Yes. Thank you.
Hope our patient will smile home today?

Technologist: You cannot imagine it, the Plaster we used in processing the job disappointed us-it was slow setting.

Dentist: So what?

Technologist: The processing took a little longer. I am afraid a new appointment has to be arranged.

Dentist: That is very disappointing.

Technologist: The problem was not anticipated. A new supply failed us.

Dentist: What is the new date are you suggesting?

Technologist: Another week.

Dentist: It is sad.

Technologist: I think we need to re- appraise the whole situation.

Dentist: What do you mean?

Technologist: The management has to be advised on the latest technologies in fabrication of dental prostheses.

Dentist: How do you mean?

Technologist: We cannot afford to continue  to stay at the mercy of failed appointments because we do not employ the latest time saving technologies and techniques.

Dentist: You want to be recommended for training?

Technologist: No, but the management should be aware there are better ways of working to satisfy our patients.

Dentist: Please explain further.

Technologist: The world of dentistry is already shifting from Plaster room to digital spaces.

Dentist: Are you suggesting the use of computer to do laboratory fabrication? By the way how many of you in the lab can use a computer that way?

Technologist: Computer and the skills required to operate one is a commonplace these days.

Dentist: Anyway, our system is not supportive of what you are trying to suggest with this no electricity, no water, no material problems we daily encounter.

Technologist: Yes but we have to start somewhere; suggest and recommend the best way to the management and we have done our part.

Dentist: I agree but management too will give excuses on shortage of funds.

Technologist: What then is the way forward? We shall then continue to disappoint our patients-that is not good for dentistry as a whole.

Dentist: We must find a way out of this in the overall interest of the dental profession and the patient we serve.

Technologist: The whole thing look like a quagmire but it is surmountable.

Dentist: Yes. Let's think of some other alternatives while we pressurise the management over our idea.

Technologist: Alternatives?

Dentist: Yes, alternatives.

Technologist:  I suggest we create a forum of dental professionals leaving no one behind that will discuss the future of dentistry in Nigeria. This all-inclusive forum can commence a new direction for the future of dentistry.

Dentist: How, under what modalities?

Technologist: Both of us can start talking to those that may share this dream then we take it from there.

Dentist: Good idea. Let's get this off the ground during break time.

Technologist: I look forward to it.

'ROADSIDE TEACHERS'

When I read in a Nigerian newspaper (PunchApril28 2015) the submission of a Nigerian University Professor about 'roadside teachers' my initial shock was on why the education system in Nigeria tolerated this type of teachers for so long and up till now unless the present government in Nigeria does something about it the problem cannot be said to be over. The learned Professor unfortunately did not identify who roadside teachers were. It is however very apparent that he was referring to those who were teaching in our schools and Universities without formal training in education-No training of any kind to qualify them as teachers.
They are however very qualified professionals in their fields and many of course can explain topics in their respective subject areas to their students. Does this qualify anyone to be teachers/lecturers even to the extent of becoming a professor without a teaching qualification all through a teaching career in the University? For instance if you have a BSc or MBBS you can be recruited to teach in a Nigerian University and become a professor with medical fellowships. It seems if you can just explain a topic to your students you can continue your career as a lecturer. Should we continue to cry of poor quality of education under this kind of circumstance? Education policies in Nigeria have changed as the number of governments we have had so far. Education budget is the lowest when compared with our enormous resources. Nigerian University Commission, the body responsible for accreditation of University programmes once made a policy or proposed PhD as minimum qualification but up till now this has not been implemented especially in medical and dental faculties. The cry of genuine educators continue to fall on deaf ears. Which way forward for Nigeria education? The use of technology has promising prospect for addressing this problem but  the level of adoption is one of the lowest. The rest of the world is rethinking their education systems but we seem to be comfortable with our circumstances. Although it is not all negatives for education in Nigeria as prominent educators have made remarkable marks at their own times but we cannot grow a formidable education with occasional nuggets of development. This is why the observation of the Professor is apt and deserves the attention of the present government. The rest of the world has been helping Nigerian students and educators through scholarships and countless trainings but the  government seems not to bother much about this. It is over several decades ago that Nigerian scholarships boards last functioned even when it was active funding goes to politicians and their cronies. Academic staff of Nigerian universities (ASUU) hardly work for two consecutive years without having at least four to six months face off with the government. Salary agitations, industrial courts and negotiation and re-negotiation have become a common place in university/government relationships. The whole situation is frustrating for the youth who look up to their leaders for help. Government's schools and Universities are just not the best option for a serious student and the cost of education in the private institutions has hit the roof. Where is the future of quality education under this kind of circumstance?

21st CENTURY UNIVERSITY CURRICULUM?

Sometimes I wonder why should full-time  bachelor degree last up to four years. Can't we have the number of years reduced? Those in the health professions should not be left out of this. A student learnt through lectures and other activities provided by the school calendar but how strictly are this adhered to? The number of contact times a lecturer need to have per semester are hardly fulfilled yet university still graduate the student. Who makes up the lost hours? Lecture method is a very poor method for imparting knowledge according to research and yet in the 21st century students are expected to learn this same way as their fathers three to four decades ago. Change is what is expected. From observation lecturers miss several classes and rush to finish course programmes last minute. Is this a productive approach to teaching? Unfortunately, school authorities look the other way. 21st century students learn differently, they learn every moment and everyday. They do not learn new things only in the classroom but everywhere in the Internet, students of this age learn differently. So they learn continually and consistently. Some have argued that what they do with phone is usually social interaction but it has been established that they learn a lot more from social activities and so develop skill that enable them manage their studies in a more productive manner instead of depend on lectures that most times have to be rescheduled. The Internet is a more dependable place to learn at the convenience of the student and at any given time of interest. Stuffs that university lecturers give are sometimes obsolete and are forced down the throat of the students otherwise they will be in trouble. Students are therefore intimidated and compelled to 'download' whatever the lecturer gave in other to pass examination. A look at Nigerian Universities and mostly African Universities will reveal this practice in its quantum proportion.
If you ask me I will tell you straight that this is one of the reasons Nigerian Universities are still struggling to implement fully online courses (not even MOOC) when Universities that have made global marks are already running fully online courses. Fully online courses saves money and resources and very efficient if well managed. A student can play the traditional methods many ways and get away with their wrongs. For example if you are a lecturer that is strict on attendance then student could sign the attendance sheet on behalf of one another. Individual and group assignments could be paid for, project works are done by the most hardworking working student within the group, lecturers are paid to write thesis for students, missed test and  assignment could attract a fee if the student meets a compromising lecturer; you can pay to influence your final GPA and class of degree; someone can sit school examination on your behalf. The list is endless. University curriculum needs to be revisited in the light of the emerging 21st century pedagogy or pedagogy that 21st is compelling us to embrace. Who then will bell the cat when the duration of a full time programme is a measure of its worth?

WAX WORK @ A DENTAL LABORATORY

Dental students during wax work procedure for setting up complete denture testing their acumen in dental laboratory procedure. Dated2/06/15. Modelling wax is an unavoidable ally in the fabrication of dental prostheses but not with digitisation of dental lab procedures. These students are making use of the best the dental industry in Nigeria could provide. How long are they going to wait to join the rest of the world

in the use of computer in the fabrication of dental restorations? The answer is left for leaders in the professions and in government.

CONSERVATIVE DENTISTRY-Still A Relevant Practice?

We often hear of different branches or if you like different specialties of dentistry and when I remember conservative dentistry I wonder if the word conservation is still relevant when we consider what it entails to prepare an abutment or several teeth to fabricate crowns and bridges in order to preserve human dentition. The question is do  we really conserve the teeth we claimed to preserve?
Let's begin this way: when a tooth has a hole or the crown damaged and the clinician considered it vital then he opts for prescribing a number of appliances namely: inlay, pin lay, pin ledges, crowns, bridges etc. Any attempt to make any of the aforementioned conservative restorations results in further reduction of the crown thereby exposing the tooth to more danger by loss of supporting tooth structure. For instance if a crown was prescribed the tooth structure has to be further reduced. A lot of teeth have been lost or weakened in this process. At least a third of the total tooth structure of other healthy teeth is removed if a bridge is prescribed. How can we confidently say that teeth have been conserved? The crowns or bridges made are held to the remaining tooth structure by dental cement which often may lose its grip with time resulting in patient's continuous visit to the clinic. It should not sound as an evil but unless the tooth can not be saved by other means of treatment conservative procedure should be sparingly used. It has been reported in the literatures that 2/3 of a tooth supporting structure is lost when they are prepared for crowns or bridges. Should we still continue to pursue the objectives of conservative dentistry?
Root Canal Therapy (RCT) is definitely a practice that has saved millions of teeth globally but we cannot say of conservative appliances like crowns and bridges. Having said this are conservative appliances no longer suitable in contemporary dental practice? Of course not.
It behoves the dentist to weigh several options before decisions are made bearing in mind the several immediate and long term consequences of conservative appliances.