Are you considering a career in dentistry and wondering which polytechnic institutions in Nigeria offer the training you need? Look no further! Dentistry is an important field in healthcare that deals with the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral diseases. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the polytechnics in Nigeria that offer dentistry programs,
Polytechnics That Offer Dentistry In Nigeria
There are no polytechnics offering dentistry in Nigeria, but here’s a list of University that offer Dentistry:
- Bayero University Kano
- Lagos State University
- Obafemi Awolowo University
- Ondo State University Of Medical Sciences
- University Of Benin
- University Of Calabar
- University Of Ibadan
- University Of Jos
- University Of Lagos
- University Of Maiduguri
- University Of Nigeria
- University Of Port-Harcourt
O-level Requirements for Dentistry
To study Dentistry and Dental Surgery at a polytechnic institution in Nigeria, you are required to have at least five credit passes in the following O’Level subjects:
1). English Language.
2). Chemistry.
3). Mathematics.
4). Biology.
5). Physics
- English Language: This is a fundamental subject for effective communication and is crucial for the practice of dentistry as it involves interacting with patients and colleagues.
- Chemistry: This subject provides a foundation for understanding the chemical processes involved in the practice of dentistry, including the use of dental materials.
- Mathematics: This subject is important for the application of mathematical concepts in the field of dentistry, such as measurement, calculation and statistical analysis.
- Biology: This subject is essential for understanding the structure and function of the human body and the oral cavity, which is crucial for the practice of dentistry.
- Physics: This subject provides a foundation for understanding the physical principles that are applied in the practice of dentistry, such as the use of X-rays and other diagnostic equipment.
JAMB Subject Combination for Dentistry
To be eligible to study Dentistry and Dental Surgery, the JAMB UTME examination requires only three subjects, which are:
1). Biology.
2). Chemistry.
3). Anyone (1) other Science subjects
Jobs In Dentistry
Dental Assistant
A dental assistant plays a vital role in ensuring that dental procedures and treatments are performed smoothly and efficiently. They work closely with dentists and other dental professionals to ensure that patients receive the highest quality of care. Some of the specific responsibilities of a dental assistant include:
- Preparing the treatment room: Dental assistants are responsible for ensuring that the treatment room is properly prepared for dental procedures. This includes setting up and sterilizing all of the necessary instruments and equipment, as well as making sure that the room is clean and organized.
- Preparing patients: Before a procedure or treatment, dental assistants will prepare patients by taking their vital signs, such as blood pressure and temperature, and seating and draping them in the appropriate manner. They will also explain the procedure to the patient, answer any questions they may have, and provide them with any necessary instructions.
- Assisting during procedures: During procedures and treatments, dental assistants will assist the dentist by handing them instruments, holding suction, and performing any other tasks that are necessary.
- Sterilizing instruments: Dental assistants are responsible for ensuring that all instruments are properly cleaned and sterilized after each use, to prevent the spread of infection.
- Maintaining patient records: Dental assistants will keep accurate records of patient information and treatment plans, and will update these records as needed.
- Providing patient education: Dental assistants will educate patients on proper oral care and hygiene, including how to brush and floss, and the importance of regular dental checkups.
Dental Hygienists
Dental hygienists are licensed oral health professionals who provide preventive care to patients. They play an essential role in maintaining good oral health by performing duties such as:
- Performing dental exams: Dental hygienists will conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s teeth and gums, looking for signs of tooth decay, gum disease, and other oral health issues.
- Cleaning teeth: Dental hygienists will perform a professional cleaning of the patient’s teeth, using specialized tools to remove plaque and tartar, and polishing the teeth to leave them smooth and clean.
- Educating patients on oral hygiene: Dental hygienists will teach patients about the importance of good oral hygiene practices, such as regular brushing and flossing, and will provide guidance on how to maintain good oral health.
- Reviewing and maintaining patient records: Dental hygienists will keep accurate records of patient information and treatment plans, and will update these records as needed.
- Using X-ray equipment: Dental hygienists will use X-ray equipment to take images of the teeth and roots, which will help the dentist to diagnose and treat oral health issues.
Medical Office Receptionist
A medical office receptionist is responsible for performing a variety of administrative and clerical tasks in a dental office. These tasks may include:
- Answering phones: The receptionist will answer calls to the dental office and direct them to the appropriate person or department.
- Scheduling appointments: The receptionist will schedule appointments for patients, ensuring that they are scheduled at times that are convenient for both the patient and the dental staff.
- Greeting and checking in patients: The receptionist will be the first point of contact for patients when they arrive at the dental office. They will greet patients, verify their personal and insurance information, and ensure that all necessary forms have been completed.
- Maintaining the appearance of the front desk area: The receptionist will be responsible for keeping the front desk area clean and organized, ensuring that all necessary forms, brochures, and materials are readily available for patients.
- Keeping patient data private and confidential: The receptionist will handle sensitive patient information and will be responsible for maintaining patient confidentiality in accordance with local and national laws. This may include ensuring that patient records are stored securely, and that patient information is only shared with authorized personnel.
Dentists
Dentists are licensed medical professionals who specialize in the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of oral health issues. They play a vital role in maintaining the overall health and well-being of their patients by performing a wide range of duties, including:
- Performing comprehensive oral examinations: Dentists will conduct a thorough examination of the patient’s mouth, including the teeth, gums, and other related parts, to identify any potential oral health issues.
- Analyzing X-rays and other images: Dentists will review and interpret X-rays, CT scans, and other diagnostic images to gain a deeper understanding of a patient’s oral health.
- Diagnosing oral health problems: Based on the examination and diagnostic images, dentists will diagnose oral health issues such as tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer, and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
- Developing treatment plans: Dentists will create customized treatment plans for each patient, taking into account their individual needs, medical history, and overall health.
- Performing a wide range of treatments and procedures: Dentists will carry out a variety of treatments and procedures, such as filling cavities, removing teeth, placing permanent implants, and crowns, and performing root canals, extractions, and other surgeries.
- Advising and educating patients: Dentists will provide guidance and education to patients on how to maintain good oral health and prevent future problems, including proper brushing and flossing techniques, and the importance of regular dental check-ups.
- Staying up-to-date with the latest advancements: Dentists will stay current with the latest advancements in oral health technology, materials, and techniques, to ensure that they are providing the best possible care for their patients.
Oral And Maxillofacial Surgeon
An oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS) is a dental specialist who performs surgical procedures on the soft and hard tissues of the oral and maxillofacial regions. These procedures are intended to treat injuries, diseases, or defects in the area, and may include:
- Administering local anesthetics: OMSs will provide patients with local anesthetics to minimize pain and discomfort during surgical procedures.
- Evaluating X-ray images: OMSs will examine X-ray images of the patient’s teeth and jaw to determine the position of wisdom teeth and other teeth that need to be removed.
- Performing surgery for oral implants: OMSs will prepare the mouth for the placement of oral implants by performing procedures such as extraction of damaged or non-restorable teeth and bone grafting.
- Removing damaged or impacted teeth: OMSs will remove teeth that are damaged, impacted, or cannot be restored.
- Providing emergency treatment for facial injuries: OMSs will provide emergency treatment for injuries to the soft tissues of the face and oral region.
- Moving or removing skin, nerves, bones and other tissues: OMSs will move or remove skin, nerves, bones and other tissues from other body parts to restore function and form to the oral or facial region.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dentistry A Good Career Choice?
Dentistry can be a rewarding and fulfilling career choice for those interested in the field of healthcare and helping others. Dentists play an important role in maintaining the oral health of their patients, and can have a direct impact on improving their overall well-being.
Dentistry is a well-paying and stable career, with a good work-life balance. However, it does require a significant investment of time and money in education and training. If you have a passion for science and healthcare, and are willing to make the necessary investment, then dentistry can be a great career choice.
Dentistry is a field that has been around for centuries and is a vital component of healthcare. With advancements in technology and new research, the field is continually evolving and growing. There will always be a need for dental care and the demand for dental services is likely to continue in the future. So, Dentistry has a bright future.
Polytechnics, also known as technical colleges, generally do not offer programs in dentistry or dental surgery. Dentistry and dental surgery are highly specialized fields that require extensive education and training, and are typically only offered at universities or dental schools
To become a dentist, individuals must complete a rigorous educational program that typically includes a four-year undergraduate degree followed by four years of dental school. This program includes both classroom instruction and clinical training, and covers a wide range of subjects including anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and dental procedures.
References
- https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/jobs-in-dentistry
- https://drugsavant.com/universities-that-offers-dentistry/
- https://www.healthcarestudies.com/article/six-reasons-to-become-a-dentist/