The High Court has issued conservatory orders suspending the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council’s (KMPDC) recent decisions that expanded the scope of dental practice to include non-dentists. This suspension will remain until the court hears a petition filed by the Kenya Dental Association (KDA) along with Dr Kahura Mundia and Dr Arnold Malit.
In a statement, the KDA described the orders as a necessary measure to halt what it calls the "illegal expansion of scope of practice for non-dentists". The petition challenges the administrative decisions by KMPDC, arguing they were made without following legal protocols and disregard established professional dentistry standards.
The KDA emphasized that:
- The expansion was done irregularly and unlawfully.
- It violates accepted dentistry practice standards.
- The decisions threaten public safety and could compromise the quality of dental care.
- Protecting patients from malpractice, negligence, and unqualified practitioners is paramount.
The legal action seeks to uphold professional standards and ensure that dental practice regulation in Kenya adheres to the rule of law. The case is set for mention on October 8, 2026, when parties will present their arguments before the court proceeds with the full hearing.
By suspending the KMPDC’s decisions, the court aims to safeguard public health and maintain the integrity of dental care pending a final ruling.
