Ghana Dental Association's 35th Annual General Congress Champions the Fight Against Dental Quackery
Theme: Ending Dental Quackery, Restoring Trust in Dental Care Date: 25–27 June 2026
The Ghana Dental Association (GDA) successfully hosted its 35th Annual General Congress, bringing together dental professionals, healthcare leaders, industry partners and key stakeholders under the timely theme, "Ending Dental Quackery, Restoring Trust in Dental Care." Over three days of scientific discussions, leadership engagements, networking and fellowship, the congress reinforced the Association's commitment to safeguarding public health while promoting excellence, ethics and professionalism within Ghana's dental sector.
Preparations for the congress began in the early hours of the opening day, with organisers, hotel staff and the event management team working diligently to ensure every detail was in place before delegates arrived. By the official start of proceedings, participants had gathered in an atmosphere characterised by enthusiasm, professionalism and a shared commitment to advancing oral healthcare in Ghana.
Scientific Sessions Drive Meaningful Dialogue
The opening day featured an engaging series of scientific presentations designed to address some of the most pressing issues confronting the dental profession. Topics ranged from practical digital dental implantology and regulatory enforcement to ethics, professionalism and strengthening legitimate dental practice.
Industry partners, including Mega Life, Crown Health, Colgate Palmolive and Kora Dental, also showcased products and innovations that continue to support the advancement of modern dental practice.
One of the defining characteristics of the scientific sessions was the exceptional level of audience participation. Question-and-answer sessions frequently extended beyond their allotted time as delegates actively sought clarification and contributed to discussions on regulation, patient safety and professional accountability. The willingness of speakers to engage extensively with participants reflected the collaborative spirit that defined the congress.
Among the presentations that generated considerable discussion was Dr. Emmanuel Maurice Ankrah's session, which examined the realities of dental quackery and the collective responsibility of professionals to uphold ethical standards. Delegates explored issues surrounding the proper display of professional credentials, lawful advertising and the importance of maintaining public confidence in licensed dental practitioners.
Throughout the day, networking opportunities during coffee and lunch breaks encouraged delegates to exchange ideas and strengthen professional relationships in a warm and welcoming environment.
Restoring Public Confidence Through Collaboration
The congress highlighted that ending dental quackery extends far beyond protecting a profession—it is fundamentally about protecting lives.
Illegal dental practices expose patients to unnecessary health risks, infections, avoidable complications and financial hardship while undermining public trust in healthcare systems. Speakers consistently emphasised that addressing these challenges requires a coordinated effort involving regulatory authorities, healthcare professionals, policymakers, industry partners and the general public.
Presentations throughout the congress advocated stronger regulatory enforcement, continuous professional education, increased public awareness and greater collaboration between institutions responsible for safeguarding healthcare standards. Collectively, these measures seek to restore confidence in legitimate dental care while ensuring that every Ghanaian has access to safe, ethical and quality oral healthcare.
Leadership and Governance Take Centre Stage
The second day of the congress shifted focus to the Association's official Opening Ceremony and Annual General Meeting.
Following early morning registration, delegates were welcomed by members of the Local Organising Committee before receiving solidarity messages from partner organisations and distinguished guests. The programme featured addresses from the President of the Ghana Dental Association, healthcare leaders, traditional authorities and government representatives, reaffirming the shared responsibility of protecting oral health and strengthening Ghana's healthcare system.
The afternoon Annual General Meeting provided members with an opportunity to review committee reports, discuss governance matters, evaluate the Association's progress and consider strategic priorities for the future. These deliberations demonstrated the Association's commitment to transparency, accountability and continuous improvement.
Fellowship Beyond the Conference Hall
While the congress was firmly rooted in professional development, it also recognised the importance of building relationships beyond formal sessions.
The final day began with an excursion to Papaye Village in Aburi, providing delegates with an opportunity to relax and connect in a more informal setting before concluding the congress with an elegant dinner gala.
The evening brought together members, guests and partners for an enjoyable celebration marked by live music, conversation and laughter. Delegates also gathered to watch the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup fixture between Ghana and Croatia, with many proudly dressed in Ghana's national colours, creating an atmosphere of unity and shared national pride. The occasion perfectly reflected the spirit of fellowship that complements professional collaboration.
Looking Ahead
The 35th Annual General Congress successfully demonstrated that combating dental quackery requires more than regulation alone. It demands ethical leadership, public education, institutional collaboration and an unwavering commitment to professional excellence.
By bringing together experts from across the healthcare sector to exchange knowledge, share experiences and strengthen partnerships, the Ghana Dental Association reaffirmed its dedication to protecting the public and advancing oral healthcare in Ghana.
As delegates departed with renewed purpose, the message of the congress remained clear: restoring trust in dental care begins with every stakeholder working together to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity and patient-centred care.
