Authors : Eyarefe O. S.; Ejeta K.; Mba I. C.; Akogu Y. S.; Olubodun O. J.; Iruba H.; Amanum O. I.; Felix O. E.; Onyeloili C. M.

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 3 - March

Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/4tdhkfuj

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/238bp7np

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26mar1197

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.

Abstract : The integration of digital technologies into maxillofacial practice represents a paradigm shift with significant implications for clinical outcomes, patient satisfaction and professional efficiency. In the Nigerian context, however, the adoption of such technologies remains nascent and unevenly distributed, constrained by a complex interplay of infrastructural, financial, educational, regulatory and sociocultural forces. This narrative review systematically examines the barriers and facilitators to digital technology adoption in maxillofacial practice within Nigeria, drawing on current global and African literature. Technologies examined include computer-aided design and computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) systems, three-dimensional (3D) printing, intraoral digital scanning, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted diagnostic and prosthetic design tools. Key barriers identified include high acquisition costs, epileptic power supply, limited specialist training, inadequate regulatory frameworks and low institutional investment in health technology infrastructure. Facilitators encompass the growing global accessibility of digital platforms, increasing smartphone and internet penetration, nascent government digitalization policies, growing professional awareness and promising collaborative frameworks between Nigerian universities and international dental technology organizations. The paper advocates for a multi-stakeholder approach involving the government, professional bodies such as the Association of Dental Technologists of Nigeria (ADTN), Dental Technologists Registration Board of Nigeria (DTRBN), training institutions and international partners to accelerate context-appropriate digital technology adoption. Practical strategies for capacity building, phased implementation and policy reform are proposed, along with directions for future empirical research in the Nigerian maxillofacial context.

Keywords : Digital Technology, Maxillofacial Prosthetics, CAD/CAM, 3D Printing, Nigeria, Dental Technology, Technology Adoption, Barriers, Facilitators, Oral healthcare.

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