Oral health workers told to maintain medical ethics

By Lawrence Ongaro

The Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council (KMPDC) has cautioned community oral health officers against professional malpractice, with 10 cases currently lodged against practitioners over alleged irregularities.

The cases come amid continued reports of malpractice in the oral health sector, including practising without registration and valid licences, false advertising through unrealistic promises or costs, misuse of the title “doctor” and operating beyond one’s training, capacity or competence.

Dr David G. Kariuki, KMPDC Chief Executive Officer and Registrar, said the council is mandated to regulate the training and practice of medicine, dentistry and community oral health in Kenya.

“KMPDC is also mandated to regulate operations of health facilities within the country,” he said.

Dr Kariuki said illegal clinics and misuse of professional titles harm patients and damage the reputation of licensed practitioners.

He said investigations would be followed by disciplinary action against those found culpable.

“Enforcement must be faster, public and coordinated with counties,” he said.

Need for more trained workers

Dr Kariuki said the country’s health worker-to-population ratios remain far below the required levels, noting that community oral health officers are essential to primary healthcare when properly deployed, supervised and equipped.

He said more graduates were needed to bridge the gap but cautioned against expanding training at the expense of internship opportunities, supervisors and adequate clinical exposure.

“Quantity without quality is a delayed safety failure. Patients lose when incorrectly treated/managed,” he added.

Comprehensive School learners in Naivasha. Photo/Courtesy

The KMPDC chief executive said oral health practitioners must assess patients and provide care only in areas where they are trained and competent in order to maintain public trust.

“Oral health is still too often an afterthought in county plans, facility design and insurance benefit packages. We will invest more on maintaining accurate data on our register, licensure status and complaints which will inform on gaps that need to be addressed,” he said.

Dr Kariuki spoke during the 32nd Annual Scientific Conference of the Oral Health Association of Kenya (OHAK), being held at Lake Naivasha Resort in Nakuru County.

He was the chief guest at the conference, which runs from September 8 to 11, 2026.

Promoting oral health among learners

As part of the conference, OHAK conducted a pre-conference community outreach programme at Mirera Comprehensive School in Naivasha to promote oral health awareness among learners.

The association, which has more than 2,000 members, used interactive educational sessions to encourage positive oral health practices.

Learners were taught proper tooth-brushing techniques, the importance of healthy dietary habits and the need for regular dental check-ups. They were also encouraged to take an active role in safeguarding their oral health as part of their overall wellbeing.

The learners received dental kits to support good oral hygiene practices at home and school.

The initiative was conducted through a partnership between Mount Kenya University (MKU)’s Department of Dental Sciences and OHAK, reflecting a shared commitment to oral health education, preventive care and community engagement.

Speaking during the outreach, KMPDC Director Moses Kiptanui encouraged members of the public to seek oral health services from registered and licensed practitioners and avoid quacks.

KMPDC regulates the training and practice of medicine, dentistry and community oral health in Kenya, as well as the operations of health facilities.

The scientific conference, themed “Bridging Gaps, Breaking Boundaries: Collaboration in Oral Health”, is expected to attract hundreds of oral health delegates to discuss issues affecting the profession and promote a One Health approach in support of the Government’s Universal Health Coverage agenda.