Amman, April 29 (Petra) – Minister of Health, Feras Hawari, on Tuesday opened the 27th Jordanian International Dental Conference (JIDC), organized by the Jordanian Dental Association and attended by hundreds of dentists from around the world.

The three-day conference, which runs until Thursday, aims to spotlight the latest scientific developments and cutting-edge technologies in dentistry. It also showcases state-of-the-art equipment and medical supplies that are transforming the diagnosis and treatment of oral and dental diseases. The event features scientific sessions, lectures, and panel discussions, promoting knowledge exchange among participants and highlighting the integration of digital technologies in dentistry.

In his opening remarks, Hawari said that Jordan’s dental sector has made significant progress in both the public and private sectors, achieving notable advancements across various specialties. He attributed this success to the high qualifications of specialist dentists and subspecialists, adding that Jordan has become a regional leader in medical services and a key destination for medical tourism and scientific exchange.

Hawari noted that the Ministry of Health has taken major strides in integrating dental care into primary healthcare services as part of its commitment to comprehensive and advanced health provision. Key achievements include the opening of several specialized dental centers across the country, the modernization of 64 dental units to improve service efficiency, and the appointment of 100 general dentists in 2024 to support clinics and hospitals nationwide. Plans are also underway to hire an additional 50 dentists this year.

He highlighted the ministry’s efforts in training dental specialists, noting that around 360 dentists were trained through conferences and specialized courses in 2023 and another 140 during the first quarter of 2024. Fifty dentists were also accepted into residency programs to enhance the capabilities of Jordan's healthcare workforce.

Regarding patient safety and care quality, Hawari said the ministry issued dental clinic safety protocols covering high-risk patients, local anesthesia, and radiography. Infection control practices in healthcare centers have also been reviewed, and the ministry has committed to safe environmental practices, including the disposal of mercury-containing dental waste in line with the Minamata Convention. Mercury-free alternatives are being promoted across all health facilities.

Looking ahead, Hawari revealed that plans are underway to establish a specialized dental hospital at Al-Bashir Hospitals. The facility will offer comprehensive dental services, including operating rooms, inpatient wards, and a dedicated clinic for individuals with special needs.

Azem Qadoumi, president of the Jordanian Dental Association, praised the high standards achieved by Jordanian dentists at both regional and global levels. He said the association continues to support dental professionals through hundreds of workshops, lectures, and training events to keep them up to date with the latest in dental science.

Mohammad Hammo, head of the conference’s scientific committee, emphasized the committee’s commitment to continuing professional education through hundreds of training courses, lectures, and workshops designed to raise health awareness and control infection transmission.

The conference brings together dentists and researchers from various countries, reinforcing Jordan’s position as a regional hub for medical and dental excellence.

//Petra// AF

29/04/2025 21:30:25