Four Decades in the Dental Profession: A Personal Memoir

This book is a memoir that documents the experiences of Dr. Adejoke Fatunde following her graduation from the University of Ibadan Dental School in Nigeria in 1980. In the introduction, we get a glimpse of her educational foundation and the role that her family and upbringing played in preparing her for the future. Afterward, it tells of her experiences as a member of the pioneer dental class at the University of Ibadan in Ibadan, Nigeria and the different challenges that accompanied being one of the first in the field of dentistry at that institution.

Furthermore, being a pioneer at Ibadan provided her with opportunities for graduate dental education at the University of Michigan where she trained as an orthodontist with the Staff Development Scholarship from her alma mater. In return, the diverse experiences she has had as an orthodontist have presented her with a myriad of memorable opportunities. Indeed, capturing the memories of forty years after dental school has been a release of the intriguing maze, the diverse and ranging experiences she has navigated in the 40 years after dental school.

On another note, her venture into dental public health appeared to have been born out of the uncertainty she faced during part of her orthodontic journey. However, it has proven to be non-accidental but, part of her mission to help increase access to dental care for those who cannot afford it. Primarily, the purpose of this memoir is to share her life with her progeny, other people who have influenced her professional development, and those who may wish to know a little more about her. Ultimately, it is a testimony to the goodness of God to her.