The Bulletin - Issue 62 Mar-Apr 2022

Issue 62 January-March 2022 1

The official newsletter of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia Ltd

PROMOTE YOURSELF How to tell people what you do...

...how to avoid the pitfalls of promotion

2022 National Symposium

Get your CPD fix online

We take a look at the attractions that Darwin has to offer

Beat the November deadline and grab some hours from home

STATE ROUND-UP Find out what’s happening in your local area

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2022 has started with a bang!

I can't believe that it’s already March and I’m writing this from a motel room in Gin Gin in rural Queensland on my way back to Rockhampton.

Already, this year has been filled with many challenges and opportunities. I am so proud of the DHAA and the leadership we show to our profession. We have continued to come together and support each other. It is this sense of community that gives me so much hope for this year and beyond.

We are making waves through our advocacy efforts; our federal budget submission – seeking funding for aged care and oral health promotion – is consistent with our ongoing focus; and we are working with Services Australia and negotiating with the health insurance sector to prepare for the forthcoming access to provider numbers in July. The DHAA Board is in the process of reviewing and consolidating our advocacy plan for 2022 so that we continue to be disciplined and remain focused on our advocacy activities.

Contents 04 Are we being heard?

CEO Bill Suen reviews our achievements and looks towards the next challenges.

06 Ask DHAA

Your questions answered.

09 Get your CPD fix

Some suggestions to help hit November’s CPD reporting deadline.

12 Leading Lady

Dr Janet Wallace talks about her recent appointment.

16 Pushing boundaries

A change in personnel I would like to thank our outgoing volunteers for their contributions to DHAA, namely: Steven Chu, NSW State Committee Chair; Jen Turnbull, QLD State Committee Chair; Michael Charlton-Fitzgerald, TAS State Committee Chair; and Robyn Russell, Bulletin Editor. And I would also like to welcome our new volunteers: Jody Inouye, NSW Chair; Lizzy Horsfall, QLD Chair; Jinous EighaniRoushani, NSW Deputy Chair; Stacey Billinghurst, QLD Deputy Chair; and Brie Jones, who is the new editor of the DHAA Bulletin

National symposium update Under the leadership of Michelle Kuss and the great work of the organising committee, the 2022 DHAA Symposium in Darwin is shaping up to provide our profession with lots of new opportunities to learn and network. It is very exciting to be able to see everyone again face to face. So far, our CPD events are in full swing, with a focus on offering a diverse range of topics.

None of this would be possible without the support of our DHAA community and the amazing staff and volunteers that are the backbone of our Association.

We have much to look forward to in 2022, and I am fortunate to serve with a great group of board members, staff and volunteers that will make this transition a huge success. We can’t do it without all of you!

Please enjoy this edition of the DHAA Bulletin and I hope to see you soon.

A/Prof Carol Tran DHAA National President

Improving dental hygiene for people with disability.

18 Career Development

Finding meaningful work through multiple careers.

COVER STORY

20 Promote yourself

How to market your products and services; plus the regulations that govern you.

24 Community champions

Your chance to nominate for the 2022 DHAA Awards.

30 Doing Darwin

Activities for when you’re at the National Symposium.

32 Conquering change

Is it the fear of change that’s holding you back?.

.34 State of the Nation What's on the go near you.

Key Contacts CEO Bill Suen CONTACT

PRESIDENT Carol Tran CONTACT

MEMBERSHIP OFFICER Christina Zerk CONTACT

BULLETIN EDITOR Brie Jones CONTACT

The Bulletin is an official publication of the DHAA Ltd. Contributions to The Bulletin do not necessarily represent the views of the DHAA Ltd. All materials in this publication may be readily used for non-commercial purposes. The Bulletin is designed and published by eroomcreative.com

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FROM THE TOP

Are we being heard?

Bill Suen DHAA CEO

Our Association is beginning to find its voice and has seen some impressive results already; but there are still plenty of campaigns for us to get behind THE YEAR 2022 sees the DHAA Federal

Pre-Budget Submission calling for the establishment of a Senior Dental Benefits Scheme, funding for on-site aged care oral health services and consumer oral health promotion targeting the culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) population. While the success rate for Federal Pre-Budget Submissions are very low due to the large volume of submissions from competing parties, these submissions are part of the advocacy measures that keep important issues on the radar of politicians and government officials.

Over the past couple of years, the DHAA Board has been taking a focused and coordinated approach by prioritising our advocacy efforts on provider numbers, aged care and oral health promotion. As a small professional peak association with very limited resources, strategic focus and operational efficiency is critical if we are to have a reasonable return from our efforts.

The successful Bad Mouth Campaign was highly disciplined and coordinated with volunteers across the country approaching politicians and stakeholders with clear and consistent messages that resulted in the government agreeing to the policy change that provides our profession access to commonwealth provider numbers. At the moment we are working with the Department of Health and Services Australia towards implementing the change from 1 July this year. Work is in progress with various private health insurance companies to negotiate flow on changes in the private sector that will make a significant impact to our

The Aged Care Program launched last year set an ambitious goal of having 50% of Australian aged care facilities being serviced by an oral health professional on site within five years. To achieve this in a sustainable way we need to advocate for funding, build capacity, provide professional leadership and increase community awareness. Again this requires a highly coordinated and focused approach linking advocacy, education and clinical governance. With the support of a passionate and highly skilled Aged Care Special Interest Group, we saw our first graduates from the education program last month, ready to attend RACFs on site. We have also

“ Oral health promotion is a much broader project...

The DHAA will continue to put this item on the radar of the government and the public using all possible means so that it is not forgotten” profession. We have also received invitations by dental decision groups to participate in various policy advisory groups such as the Dental Benefits Act Review Committee and the Dental Feasibility Study Expert Reference Group.

With the anticipated access to provider numbers and the likely flow on to private health insurance over the coming months, there is a need for practice guidelines and education to prepare the profession for the change.

DHAA is in the process of establishing an expert advisory group to oversee these supporting activities as well as providing advice to internal and external stakeholders.

begun making presentations on our program to various government officials and aged care facilities.

Oral health promotion is a much broader project; while everyone recognises the importance of prevention, very little is being done in practice by governments, stakeholders and the professions due to other more pressing priorities. The DHAA will continue to put this item on the radar of the government and the public using all possible means so that it is not forgotten. Through our association with the International Federation of Dental Hygiene, we are also hoping to move a motion to make oral health promotion an International health priority.

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Laser training and scope of practice To further support our advocacy focus, we have now consolidated all small grant moneys within DHAA into a single research fund, with the aim of fostering research projects that support our advocacy goals.

By coordinating our advocacy, education, research and clinical governance activities towards our priorities, we are making better use of our limited resources. We have had some success and are beginning to be heard. There is a lot more to be done, and we need more support from members on the ground to amplify our voices across the country in a coordinated manner. I am calling for DHAA Members to be part of this coordinated movement. There are many different ways you can contribute - in education events, meeting with local politicians and/or government departments, conducting or being involved in projects/pilot studies, sharing your experience and skills by serving on special interest groups or state committees. Please contact me at ceo@dhaa.info or 0412 831 669 if you wish to explore opportunities to be involved and help make progressive changes for our profession.

While not everyone is in the position to contribute through these working groups and committees, individuals may support the cause by being a member of the association, coming along to the National Symposium where you can share your ideas and experience with your peers, and enticing colleagues to be involved with DHAA activities.

Every bit helps and collectively we can achieve a lot.

Let’s be heard - loud and clear! n

The DHAA receives regular queries from members regarding their professional and legal positions with a range of laser training, and whether they will be covered by the DHAA Professional Indemnity Insurance. The following advice has been provided after consultation with Professor Laurie Walsh.

No laser course is a scope extension course. Hence, after doing a laser course, existing procedures (within one’s scope) can be undertaken with a laser, e.g. periodontal debridement using a laser rather than an ultrasonic scaler, cavity prep with a laser rather than a high-speed drill, desensitising with a laser rather than by topically applying a desensitising gel, etc. But these training programs do NOT extend a practitioner’s scope of practice. OHTs can manage conditions they already treat within their scope using a laser or other methods – but having access to a laser does not suddenly allow you to manage conditions that you could not previously.

The ADC scope for OHTs articulates the differences between dentists and OHTs - and a major point of difference is around surgical management of conditions.

OHTs are not taught dentoalveolar surgery or periodontal surgery at university.

When a complaint about scope arises, the basic training at university is the point for comparison. This is how AHPRA has approached the issue when an OHT has strayed out of their scope. “ A dental practitioner Moreover, when pushed by an orthodontist or must not direct any a general dentist to go outside their scope, a very person whether a heavy hand will fall on the orthodontist or dentist registered dental as it is a major breach of the code of conduct practitioner or not and the scope of practice registration standard relating to delegation. to undertake dental “A dental practitioner must not direct any treatment or give person whether a registered dental practitioner or advice outside that not to undertake dental treatment or give advice person’s education outside that person’s education or competence.” or competence” OHTs in the practice can use a diode laser (once they have done the training and where needed by state law gained a laser use licence) for procedures like photobiomodulation/low-level laser therapy to desensitise teeth and reduce post adjustment pain and accelerate tooth movement, or to disinfect periodontal pockets after debridement. All surgical procedures like exposing unerupted teeth and reshaping gingival tissue need to be done by the orthodontist themselves or referred out.

In terms of laser training, doing online training only, even though there was a “hands-on” component, is not enough to demonstrate competence. OHTs would need to do an in-person hands-on component under appropriate supervision before one could consider competence as having been shown.

The Professional Indemnity Insurance provided by the DHAA covers all dental hygienists, dental therapists and oral health therapists’ professional practice as registered dental practitioners within their individual scope of practice. n

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Ask DHAA...

Your opportunity to ask the questions, check the rules and share your knowledge Dear DHAA... I would like to know if CPD points can be carried forward to the following cycle. If we can then is there a limit to how many can be carried over?

The current Dental Board of Australia CPD cycle ends in November this year. There is no provision for rolling over any CPD credits to the next CPD cycle. The set 60 hours per three years is a mandatory minimum requirement.

Practitioners should undertake CPD in accordance with their needs to maintain competence and develop new skills, which in many cases may mean exceeding the minimum requirement.

Dear DHAA... I understand DHAA Members get discounts from a number of major retailers, travel and accommodation providers and financial services. How do I find out what they are and access these benefits?

Yes, DHAA Members of all categories can have access to corporate discounts on an extensive range of products and services from major retailers and service providers.

Please log in to the member portal, go to your profile and click on member benefits. You will be able to check out the

DHAA benefits for the whole family

range of benefits available.

If you have not used this service before you may need to register by providing your DHAA membership number to access the benefits. You can find your membership number under your online profile.

Dear DHAA... I attended the DHAA National Symposium 2021 virtually. I was just wondering if there are going to be CPD certificates being emailed, or something to say I attended?

As a registrant, you should have already received your certificate of registration to the symposium by email in

November 2021. If you have not received it, please check your spam email folder.

The certificate is your proof that you have registered for the event, and you will need to self-record the actual time spent attending both the live sessions and subsequent viewing of other recorded sessions. There is no certificate for attendance as we have no way of tracking your viewing time online over the six month period. If you are unable to locate your Symposium certificate of registration, please email contact@dhaa. info and we can organise a copy to be emailed again.

Dear DHAA... I am a student member of DHAA and am about to graduate.

As student members we have free professional indemnity, but do I need to change my insurance to cover me when I start working as a dental practitioner?

DHAA offers complimentary professional indemnity insurance to all student and graduate members.

The insurance is identical to the PI insurance that practising hygienists and therapists need to meet the AHPRA registration requirements. If you are a

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appropriately trained and proven competent. Please refer to the Dental Board of Australia information regarding scope of practice and whitening: DBA ADVICE

Whitening insurance cover at home

student member and have selected PI insurance when you joined, you do not need to do anything when you register and commence work, so long as you continue to be a DHAA member and select PI insurance as an option at your next renewal. You should have received your insurance certificate when joining or renewing your DHAA membership.

Please email contact@ dhaa.info if you need a new copy. You will receive your membership renewal notice in May and you will need to upgrade your student membership to a graduate

membership which also attracts a complimentary PI insurance option.

Dear DHAA... As a registered Dental Hygienist with professional indemnity insurance with DHAA, does this cover me if I start an independent practice doing whitening from my home studio?

Your DHAA-BMS PI insurance covers you as a registered DH/DT/OHT practising within your scope within Australia, regardless of where you practice.

Whitening may be within your scope if you are

It is important that you practise within your scope and required practice guidelines (e.g. infection control) and your PI insurance will cover you as a dental practitioner.

Please note that the PI insurance does not cover the business side of things (e.g. public liability of the premises/business entity).

It is important that you seek appropriate legal advice in relation to your business.

You may wish to contact the insurer at dhaa@bmsgroup. com to see if you require additional business insurance cover in addition to your PI insurance.

You may find the business support portal of your DHAA membership section of our website useful when you set up your own business.

DHAA ADVICE

Got something you want to ask? Send your email to bulletin@dhaa.info

Say hello to the new Bulletin editor Brie Jones graduated from The University of Melbourne in 2012 with first-class honours.

Since then, she has thoroughly enjoyed using different aspects of her clinical skills in both general practice and orthodontics.

“I am currently working part-time as I have two young children who keep me very busy,” she says. “I am grateful to be able to use my full scope of practice, including extended adult scope, in a private general practice on the beautiful Mornington Peninsula.”

Brie is looking forward to flexing her new editor muscles and sharing all things dental with members of our profession.

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BioMin® changes the game!

Remineralisation & Sensitivity

Global caries expert : Prof. B ten Cate

“ For treatments to be effec�ve longer than the brushing and salivary clearance, fluoride needs to be deposited and slowly released.”1 BioMin F: extended release fluoride, calcium & phosphate.

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References: 1. Ten Cate. JM. Eur J Oral Sci 1997;105(5) 2:461-5. 2. DOF BioMin Technologies. 3. Hill R & Gillam D, Dentine Hypersensitivity advances in Diagnosis Management and Treatment 2015 p157-179. 4. www.productreview.com.au (accessed Sept 2021)

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Get your CPD fix online With the November CPD reporting deadline looming, we’ve compiled a few suggestions to accrue a some hours at home

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f you’re a bit behind on your CPD hours, then the following articles may be of interest.

Follow the links and review the contents. Please note that allocated CPD hours are just a recommendation, you may self-record the actual time spent on these articles as part of your CPD.

• Published online: December 2, 2021 (The Lancet) • Authors: Alasdair P S Munro, Leila Janani, Victoria Cornelius et al • CPD hours: 0.5 (Scientific)

Vaccination after-effects

Revision of the Australian guidelines to reduce health risks from drinking alcohol.

The Australian guidelines to reduce health risks from drinking alcohol were released in 2020 by the National Health and Medical Research Council. Based on the latest evidence, the guidelines provide advice on how to keep the risk of harm from alcohol low. They refer to an Australian standard drink (10 g ethanol).

The recommended limit for healthy adults changed from two standard drinks per day (effectively 14 per week) to ten per week. The new guideline states that the less you drink, the lower your risk of harm from alcohol. The recommended

“Safety and immunogenicity of seven COVID-19 vaccines as a third dose (booster) following two doses of ChAdOx1 nCov19 or BNT162b2 in the UK (COV-BOOST): a blinded, multicentre, randomised, controlled, phase 2 trial .”

This project reviewed the impact of a third dose of 7 COVID-19 vaccines after the initial 2 doses of Astra-Zeneca and Pfizer COVID-19 vaccines.

All study vaccines boosted antibody and neutralising responses after AstraZeneca initial course and all except one after Pfizer, with no safety concerns.

FIND OUT MORE

Reduce risks of alcohol

maximum on any one day remains four drinks (clarified from previously “per drinking occasion”). Guidance is clearer for pregnancy and breastfeeding; and for people aged less than 18 years, recommending not drinking.

• Authors: Katherine M Conigrave, Robert L Ali, Rebecca Armstrong, et al.

• CPD hours: 0.5 (Scientific) FIND OUT MORE

Pregnancy and diabetes care Pre-pregnancy planning and care for women with diabetes is an online course for health professionals developed as part of the National Diabetes Services Scheme (NDSS).

Three e-learning modules cover key aspects of planning and preparing for pregnancy for women with type 1 or type 2 diabetes. Four non-assessed case studies have been incorporated into the modules to assist learners with applying

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the content to their practice.

The course is free to complete and takes approximately two hours. A certificate is provided upon completion of the modules and course evaluation.

Health professional CPD points are available for this e-learning activity.

• CPD hours: 2.0 (Scientific) FIND OUT MORE

Gum disease “Time to take gum disease seriously: The societal and economic impact of periodontitis” This report describes the methods and main findings from The Economist Intelligence Unit’s research which assesses the evidence linking improved periodontal health to better overall health outcomes and showcases the economic and societal implications associated with periodontal health across six European countries: France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom. These countries were selected for their geographic, demographic, epidemiologic and socioeconomic comparability.

• Published: The Economist - Intelligence Unit 2021 • CPD hours: 1.0 (Non-scientific) FIND OUT MORE

The perils of vaping (2 parts) Two articles to be read together.

Course 1 Chemical analysis of fresh and aged Australian e-cigarette liquids Med J Aust 2022; 216 (1): 27-32. || doi: 10.5694/mja2.51280

To assess the chemical composition of electronic cigarette liquids (e-liquids) sold in Australia, in both their fresh and aged forms. The measured levels of propylene glycol and glycerol often diverged from those recorded on the e-liquid label. All e-liquids contained one or more potentially harmful chemicals, including benzaldehyde, menthol, trans-cinnamaldehyde, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Nicotine or nicotyrine were detected in a small proportion of e-liquids at extremely low concentrations.

FIND OUT MORE

Course 2 E-liquids and vaping devices: public policy regarding their effects on young people and health Med J Aust 2022; 216 (1): 23-24. || doi: 10.5694/mja2.51362 Knowledge about the composition and physiological effects of e-liquids is essential for assessing their effects on health.

• CPD hours: 0.5 (Scientific) – both articles together FIND OUT MORE

Behavioural and social Consensus Statement on Future Directions for the Behavioural and Social Sciences in Oral Health The behavioural and social sciences are central to understanding and addressing oral and craniofacial health, diseases, and conditions. With both basic and applied approaches, behavioural and social sciences are relevant to every discipline in dentistry and all dental, oral, and craniofacial

sciences, as well as oral health promotion programs and health care delivery.

The statement reflects the current state of knowledge in the behavioural and social oral health sciences and identifies future directions for the field.

Focusing on 4 key areas: behavioural and social theories and mechanisms related to oral health; use of multiple and novel methodologies in social and behavioural research and practice related to oral health; development and testing of behavioural and social interventions to promote oral health; and dissemination and implementation research for oral health.

• CPD hours: 0.25 (Scientific) FIND OUT MORE

Vitamin efficiency The safety of commonly used vitamins and minerals – Aust Prescr 2021;44:11923 2 August 2021 Like all medicines, supplements can cause potential harms such as adverse reactions, drug interactions, monetary cost, delay of more effective therapy, false hope, and increased medication burden. Consumers are at risk of overdose when the same ingredient is present in multiple products.

Health professionals can assist consumers by discussing the potential benefits and harms of vitamins and minerals and assisting them to find authoritative information.

• CPD hours: 0.5 (Scientific) FIND OUT MORE

E E Y R R F T EN

REGISTER NOW

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16 -17 March 2022

17-19 March 2022 Highlights include: • Extended opening hours • Free childcare • Free business growth seminars

• Women In Dentistry Breakfast • ADA NSW Centre for Professional Development CPD program

International Convention Centre, Sydney

#ADXexpo #ADXSydney @ADXexpo

Plan now to attend

adx.sydney

/ ADXexpo @ adxexpo

AUSTRALIA’S PREMIER DENTAL EVENT

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M Leading Lady The recent appointment of Dr Janet Wallace as Professor of Oral Health at the Sydney Dental School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, makes her only the third female professor at the Sydney Dental School Dentistry, The University of Sydney in its 120-year history.

Here she describes her journey and her hopes for the future of our profession...

y oral health career started as a junior dental assistant in private practice in Sydney, NSW and then later as a senior dental assistant at Hornsby Hospital on the North Shore. I loved the public hospital environment and have some really powerful memories of patients who had treatment that was life-changing for them. This is really where my love of public health started.

While working at Hornsby Hospital I completed my dental assistant’s proficiency certificate and my dental radiography certificate, and for a couple of years, I was an assistant TAFE teacher in the dental assistant’s radiography course. The hospital clinic had associated school dental clinics and I was often sent to work with the dental therapists at Beecroft and Berowra. I marvelled at their skills in managing children and their ability to administer blocks on young patients, they really inspired me, and I longed to pursue that career path. However, marriage, a mortgage and two babies put that on hold for a decade and when my youngest child, Sarah was one, I applied to the Westmead School of Dental Therapy and was successful in gaining a place. There were only nine students in my cohort and I’m still in contact with a few of these amazing women, one of them currently supervises a couple of PhD students with me.

After graduation, I worked in a 12-month relief dental therapists’ position at Central Coast, Local Health District where I rotated from clinic to clinic on a daily basis. I worked with some incredibly capable and passionate dentists, dental therapists and dental assistants and learned so much from all of them, but especially from my senior dental therapists (Dr Kay Franks and Mrs Lee Walpole).

These women were invincible, extracting permanent teeth, restoring huge cavities, and managing endless wait-lists, they really showed me how it was done. I will be forever grateful to them for their mentoring and friendship.

This 12-month position turned into decades of employment in a variety of roles including community dental health program officer, child dental services manager, health promotion

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coordinator and acting director. My Central Coast, Local Health District, Dental Services experiences again fed my public health mindset, and I enjoyed every minute of my career in that environment.

During this period of my employment, I completed a health promotion certificate, a business management diploma and in 2006 enrolled in the newly established dental hygiene program offered at the University of Newcastle.

Several dental therapists from the Central Coast applied and we all gained places. We got maximum credit for our dental therapy qualification and currency of practice and so started in the second year of the program. It wasn’t easy returning to student life after years of working as a dental practitioner, but hygiene degrees we wanted; and hygiene degrees we all got. What a joy it was to graduate together, a big group of dental therapists, finally able to call ourselves oral health therapists.

On graduation day we totally loved wearing those academic gowns and caps!

Then in 2008, I joined the University of Newcastle as a conjoint lecturer to establish an oral health student placement program in Residential Aged Care Facilities and this position started my academic career and my PhD. In 2010, I worked with A/Professor Fiona Blinkhorn to co-write the Graduate Diploma in Dental Therapy, this postgraduate qualification enabled those graduates with hygiene degrees to add dental therapy to their toolkit and we graduated five cohorts with superior postgraduate dental therapy qualifications.

In 2015, Professor Jane Taylor and I co-wrote a combined hygiene and dental therapy program, the first adult scope of practice oral health therapy program in NSW (hats off to A/Professor Leonie Short who was already offering this adult scope of practice at CQU). This ten-year period of my career was super hard work, but so rewarding, I became the Program Convenor and then Head of Discipline at the University of Newcastle and I had the pleasure of working with a team of dedicated and remarkable people, my then work family.

The aged care student placement program developed into the Senior Smiles program and is supported by two major philanthropic grants.

Assistance from my operations manager, Sarah

Griffiths and the Senior Smiles team has seen the program gain momentum in the last five years and constant lobbying resulted in my witness statement to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety. This evidence was instrumental in achieving Recommendation 38; employ or retain an oral health therapist in all Residential Aged Care Facilities. The Senior Smiles program has opened the doors for oral health practitioners to work in this environment and ultimately, I want to see our profession employed in Residential Aged Care Facilities, hospital wards and all other healthcare settings. People deserve holistic care that includes oral health, it’s not an add-on luxury, it’s a necessity, of course, we all know that!

Last year I moved to the University of Sydney, Australia’s first Dental School, as Professor of Oral

“ There is still so much to do and in my new position at the University of Sydney – innovation and exciting plans for the future of our profession are underway ” Health, I feel so honoured to be working at this sandstone university, the third female professor in the dental school in 120 years and only the second Professor of Oral Health in Australia (I’m honoured to be in the company of Professor Julie Satur, the very first Professor of Oral Health in Australia, from the University of Melbourne).

There is still so much to do and in my new position at the University of Sydney – innovation and exciting plans for the future of our profession are underway. I’m looking forward to working towards enabling our profession to transition into the general health care space to work with other medical and health care professionals where providing holistic care will really make a difference to individuals and communities.

Our profession has developed incredibly in the last decade and there are many more opportunities ahead. I encourage you all to think outside the square, never accept that change isn’t possible and work within collegial teams to achieve the best possible oral health care for our communities – nothing less is acceptable! n

PROMOTION

MEET OUR CORPORATE MEMBERS Erik Leinius

Managing Director of Curaprox Australia and New Zealand How long have you been with Curaprox for?

I have been with the company for two years and one month Tell us a little more about the company?

Curaprox is the fastest growing oral hygiene brand world wide with a focus on premium oral care products and education.

The Curaprox brand was available in Australia and in New Zealand through dealers and two years ago we established a direct subsidiary in Adelaide.

“O ur goal is to make the subject of prevention a much more prevalent topic in Australia and New Zealand” The focus shifted from merely availability to serving the dental community by education on prevention with innovative products and high customer satisfaction.

What makes Curaprox special?

Our company differentiates itself by putting a focus on premium products and great customer care. It brings elements of fun and colour to everyday oral hygiene.

PROMOTION

Why have you chosen to become a DHAA Corporate Member?

Our greatest relationship in the dental community is with the hygienists and oral health therapists.

They not just use and recommend our products but we learn a lot from their feedback and suggestions on improving our brand. We wanted to give back by supporting their association and we hope we can contribute to the education program. Learning never ends.

What are Curaprox’s goals regarding oral health?

Our goal is to make the subject of prevention a much more prevalent topic in Australia and New Zealand. We see there is room for improvement in the education and training of the general population on using the right tools for the everyday routine of oral care. We try to make it fun with efficient, long lasting tools for the job.

Where can we see you next?

At the ADX22 in Sydney. 17 March 2022 at the ICC. We are on stand 225 with new products and great deals. See you there!

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Pushing Boundaries Lecturer Karen Lansdown describes how her research is making a significant impact on the dental hygiene of people with disability, like her own son

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ecturer and PhD candidate in the School of Dentistry, Karen Lansdown, has been awarded $103,000 from the Research Foundation, Cerebral Palsy Alliance PhD Grant to investigate the commonly overlooked condition associated with cerebral palsy and poor oral health.

Cerebral Palsy Alliance PhD research grants are available on a competitive basis to attract new and highly qualified graduates into the field of cerebral palsy research.

As a person with a lived experience of disability, I have attended a range of specialist medical appointments with my 12-year-old son, related to his cerebral palsy (CP). During this process, I started to identify a common theme, no matter what the specialty; no one ever

mentioned oral health.

When I raised concerns with a colleague about my son’s migrating central incisor, I was told to wait and see. When I posed the question ‘what about his quality of life?’ the honest response I received, was ‘I had never even considered that’.

Having attended seminars on support and service access within the National Disability Insurance Agency, no one mentioned oral health, let alone had an oral care plan. In fact, when I raised the topic of oral health in a forum, they were dismissive of my ‘radical ideas’. It made me realise that we as dental professionals had failed in making our voices heard to the medical profession and this vulnerable population group. Whilst I can be an advocate for my child, what about those parents and caregivers that are

unaware of the importance of oral health to general health?

Research to date identifies that children with CP are at an increased risk for many oral health concerns. The neuromuscular impacts of CP may cause change to the oro-facial structures, negatively impacting nourishment, oral hygiene and resulting in parafunctional habits of the mouth, jaw and tongue. This negatively impacts general health and affects self-esteem and self-confidence, particularly in social situations. There is emerging evidence to suggest that children with CP are at increased risk of developing sleep apnea, drooling, bruxism and pain. However, there are significant gaps in the current literature with regards to oral health, quality of life and oral health recommendations for people

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with CP, especially in adults.

In both high and low-middle income countries, there is a lack of research conducted on people with CP, 18 years and over. In particular, there is very limited research in this population on oral health related quality of life, mouth breathing, sleep apnoea, pain, masticatory habits, gastroesophageal reflux disorder, and perceived barriers to dental care.

Findings thus far have shown the majority of research related to oral health for people with CP has been conducted in low-middle income countries. More research in high income countries would provide new opportunities to understand whether the oral health outcomes experienced by both children and adults with CP in these settings are consistent with those in low-middle income countries.

Currently, there are no clear guidelines, frameworks or detailed oral health recommendations for people with CP in Australia or globally. Considering the increased risk of dental disease for people with CP, the dental community needs to support people with CP and their carers to promote good oral health.

Interdisciplinary collaboration and preventive strategies are essential to achieve positive outcomes.

My research has found that the major oral health concerns reported as shown in the graphic on this page, were dental caries, occlusion, periodontal diseases and conditions, saliva, dental trauma, tooth wear, soft tissues and tongue, bruxism and oral hygiene.

In order to provide appropriate support for people with CP including accessing dental services, my research has identified the need for classification systems that acknowledge functional motor limitations of people with CP such as the Gross Motor Functional

Classification System (GMFCS) be documented in patient records. As dental professionals we can exemplify diversity and convey respect for people with a disability such as assimilating disability inclusive language into our practice e.g., ‘people with CP’ or ‘people with a

“ Currently, there are no clear guidelines, frameworks or detailed oral health recommendations for people with Cerebral Palsy in Australia or globally. ” disability’, avoiding the use of language that lacks inclusivity such as the term ‘special care’.

Recommendations arising from my research include the provision of continuing education and training courses for dental professionals, carers and allied health care workers and to employ dental professionals in disability services to:

– Implement targeted dental education for staff, carers and people with CP on the importance of oral health and general health.

– Deliver tailored oral health care plans.

The next stage of this body of research is to identify environmental and nonenvironmental barriers experienced by people with CP and their families in accessing dental care to improve oral health disparities. This will provide targeted and specific oral health recommendations, inform policy, and improve the general health of people with CP. Consumer involvement in research is important. Research about us should not be done without us! As such we intend to include people with CP in as many aspects of the development of this body of research as possible.

DHAA members and dental practitioners across Australia will soon be invited to participate in a study to understand the knowledge, attitudes and practices of treating people with CP in Australia. This research will inform our understanding of the experiences of dental professionals treating people with CP in community and private dental settings. This includes an understanding of referral pathways; preparedness of dental practitioners, and barriers and/or enablers to treating people with CP in the dental setting.

This body of research will help us know what oral conditions are most common for people with CP so we can identify and manage these conditions early and what aspects of the dental and medical system need to be improved so this can be achieved. These findings will help us improve oral health disparities and identify positive strategies, so we as a profession can make a difference in communities. n

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CAREER DEVELOPMENT

When one career is just not enough!

Finding meaningful work through multiple careers

By Melanie Hayes

F

or as long as I can remember, I have always been interested to learn about how people find meaning and joy in their work.

I grew up in a family where my father had a very stable but unsatisfying job, commenting on a weekly basis about how much he looked forward to retirement as an escape from work.

I think this experience has shaped my own desire to find a fulfilling and meaningful career - given how much of our lives we spend working I wanted to enjoy it, not wishing my life away holding on for a very distant retirement!

I find learning from others about their experience with work can help us to examine our own journey and how we might personally and professionally develop our careers.

I was recently reading one of Brene Browns books 1, and came across the work of Marci Alboher 2, who has interviewed many people about how they have found meaning in their work by pursuing multiple careers simultaneously. While I am sure this is not without its challenges (how do you balance your time and energy?!) the

concept made a lot of sense – multiple careers may be able to involve all of someone’s gifts, values, interests, and passions in a way that a single career cannot. For me, I am lucky enough that my academic career allows me to pursue my multiple interests through teaching, research and leadership activities; however, I realise in dental hygiene and therapy that the clinical work in which most of us engage, might not offer the same fulfilment and thought you all might be interested in hearing the stories of a few of our members that are currently engaged in multiple careers.

Meet Laura James

In the first part of this series, I interview Laura James, who currently enjoys working as a dental hygienist/network marketer!

Tell us about your multiple careers.

Like most of you reading this I have a rewarding career as a dental hygienist.

I work in a busy practice in Wollongong on the NSW South Coast four days per week. As a solo, full-time parent this has been an extremely flexible career to fit

around my mum life and son’s school life which I am extremely grateful for.

My second and newest career has been starting my own networking marketing business, yup… I said it!

I’ll admit in the beginning I was a bit nervous to announce publicly I was a network marketer. The industry has gotten a bit of a bad wrap in the past.

Now I embrace it! I have partnered with Young Living Essentially Oils as a brand partner. Young Living sells the most amazing essential oils of the highest quality including a line of TGA approved wellness oils. But they are more than just oils. Young Living boasts a large range of non-toxic products, supplements, chemical-free makeup, Seedlings baby line and business opportunities. It’s basically your onestop wellness shop.

What does it look like to be a network marketer for a wellness company?

This can look different for everyone. For me, I run my business predominantly through Instagram. It’s my shopfront.

I use Instagram as a tool to build new relationships and share how I use

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essential oils in my home and my low tox journey. I also use Facebook to host educational classes my members and non-members can jump into.

What made you embark on another career alongside dental hygiene?

As much as I love my hygiene job, I felt a wave of vulnerability wash over me during the 2020 lockdown. As a single mum with a mortgage who suddenly couldn’t earn an income, I was scared and anxious for my son and I and our financial future. This was when I decided

“ During the 2020 lockdown. As a single mum with a mortgage who suddenly couldn’t earn an income, I was scared and anxious for my son and I and our financial future” I needed a serious side hustle.

Just before the pandemic hit us in Australia, a very good friend of mine had introduced me to Young Living Essential Oils. Back then I’d never used an oil in my life (apart from eucalyptus in a steaming bowl of water for head colds… thanks mum!) but my friend gave me some lavender for sleep support, and I was hooked! I grabbed a bundle of oils of my

TELL US YOUR STORY If you are interested in sharing your experience with multiple careers in a future edition, please contact melanie.hayes@sydney.edu.au

own and fell in love with the products.

I knew Young Living had a business opportunity so once I grabbed my oils I basically dived straight into the training and the oily community I’m blessed to be a part of.

How do you find the time and energy to manage more than one career?

To be honest it can be very difficult.

Juggling motherhood, my wellness business, dental and just normal home duties life can get rather “busy” to say the least! However, having a portable business that I can run off my mobile means I can work anywhere during little pockets of time. That might be 10mins on my hygiene lunch break, half an hour while my son is in his music or sports class or an hour after he goes to bed at night. Having that flexibility was extremely important to me when I was considering this career.

I should also note that even though I run my own independent business I am still part of a greater team. I found this team/community nurturing and supportive. We encourage each other and advocate lots of personal development which are often run as fun ‘Oprah-style’ book clubs! I draw a lot of my energy and motivation from the personal development components.

Any words of advice for hygienists or OHTs looking to start another career?

If you’ve been thinking about an idea

over and over, dreaming about it, daydreaming about it, all I can say is just start! Make that first little step. It could be Googling business ideas, filling in an online form or asking that friend who works from home what they do.

Don’t wait till you are ready because you’re never ready.

Be open to new ideas that may not be “normal” jobs such as a Zumba, Yoga instructor or signwriter (or a wellness business in essential oils!). There are so many non-traditional roles out there.

In the beginning, I wasn’t looking specifically for a career in essential oils. I was looking for a job I could work online at home after my son was asleep, that was my original brief.

The best bit of advice would be to find something that brings you joy and don’t worry about what anyone else thinks about you. Some people may judge you for doing something different but are they paying your bills? No. Do what you want to do, it’s your life and I don’t want to live with any regrets or missed opportunities.

Do you?

If you would like to chat through any thoughts you have you can find me on Instagram: @urban_lauraj n References: 1 Brown, B. (2010) The gifts of imperfection. Vermillion, London; 2 Alboher, M. (2007). One person multiple careers. PT Mizan Publika.

Dr Melanie Hayes (PhD) is a dental hygienist who has enjoyed a diverse career in clinical practice, teaching, research and management. She has a Masters of Education majoring in Career Development, and after working in multidisciplinary roles, is now an Associate Professor in Oral Health at the University of Sydney..

20

PROMOTE YOURSELF As oral health professionals, we need to inform the public about our products and services. Bill Suen takes a look at what you need to do and the regulations that govern you

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D

ental hygienists, dental therapists and oral health therapists play a pivotal role within the health system. However, the Australian public, including other health professional groups, have little understanding of what we do and how we can contribute to the health and wellbeing of the population at various levels and settings.

With the recent changes in the Dental Board Registration Standards and the imminent recognition of our profession as legitimate dental providers who practise and charge independently, there is an urgent need to provide the public with information regarding our services so that these changes may improve public access to oral health services as anticipated.

There are many direct and indirect ways that either the profession collectively, various practices, or individuals may inform others regarding our products and services, both publicly and/or privately. These may be done through our own private and public social media connections, commercial advertising channels, billboards, local mailbox drops, professional websites, sponsorship/donations, health campaigns and much more.

Most people see advertising as the promotion of products through paid commercial channels. However, advertising includes all forms of verbal, printed and electronic communication that promotes and attracts a person to a product, a provider or a service.

As AHPRA registered dental practitioners that may be involved in the provision of health services, and in many cases supply or modification of dental devices, we need to comply with various legislations when communicating our products and services with the public. These include:

Australian Consumer Law

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and various state and territory consumer protection agencies have national and state-based legislation that aims at protecting the public’s rights. The ACCC administers the Australian Consumer Law that contains several rules that businesses

“ There is an urgent need to provide the public with information regarding our services so that these changes may improve public access to oral health services as anticipated” must follow when advertising and selling products and services. These rules apply to all businesses including dental practices and sole traders.

The Australian Consumer Laws require all statements about any products or services to be true, accurate and substantiated and must not mislead consumers even when it is unintentional.

Most businesses and individuals use social media to communicate with their contacts, both for private or business purposes.

Websites providing individual and business information are extremely common.

Owners of these social media pages are responsible for the accuracy of information and compliance, regardless of who put them there. It is therefore important that you remove any posts or comments made by others on your social media pages that are false or misleading.

READ MORE

National Law

Section 133 of the National Law provides details of legislative obligations for the advertising of regulated health services, which are services provided by or usually provided by a health practitioner.

Dental practitioners must not provide any communication for the health services that may be false, misleading or deceptive.

Dental practitioners must not use scientific information in their promotion that is inaccurate, unbalanced or difficult to understand by laypersons. Statements about treatments that are not supported by

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“ Dental practitioners must not make statements that their services are superior to others unless they have clear and accepted evidence to substantiate their claims” acceptable evidence or providing only partial/ selective information are not allowed.

Comparative advertising is a minefield for dental practitioners, as they are often difficult to be substantiated when comparing outcomes, quality of care, competency and skills. Dental practitioners must not make statements that their services are superior to others unless they have clear and accepted evidence to substantiate their claims.

Testimonials about the service or practice are not permitted. However, the restriction only applies to reviews and comments made about the clinical aspects of the services, such as symptoms, diagnosis, treatments outcomes. Comments about customer service or communication styles are not considered testimonials under the National Law. READ MORE

The Therapeutic Goods Advertising Code

The objects of the Code are to specify requirements for advertisements about therapeutic goods. Advertisements should promote the safe and proper use of the therapeutic goods by minimising misuse, overuse or underuse; be ethical as to avoid misleading or deceiving consumers or creating unrealistic expectations and support informed health care choices. The Code only applies to therapeutic goods as defined by the TGA Acts.

Health services not involving therapeutic goods are covered by the National Law. Like all other jurisdictional requirements, an advertisement about therapeutic goods must be accurate, balanced and substantiated with accepted evidence. The Code specifies that advertisements about therapeutic goods included in the ARTG must be consistent with the indication or intended purpose as accepted

by the register. Off label use of these devices cannot be promoted.

Any advertisement of therapeutic goods must not represent the goods to be safe, or without harm or side-effect, or effective in all cases, or a guaranteed cure, or infallible, unfailing, magical, or be miraculous. On the other hand, advertisements must not cause undue alarm, fear or distress, or contain a representation to the effect that harmful consequences may result from the therapeutic goods not being used.

The Code also prohibits statements containing comparisons about therapeutic goods, classes of therapeutic goods, or therapeutic services (“comparator goods or services”) where such a comparison suggests that the comparator goods or services are harmful or ineffectual.

In cases that scientific research is cited, the researcher and any financial sponsor of the research must be identified to enable consumers to access the research.

There are stringent restrictions in relation to testimonials and endorsement of therapeutic goods. Current or former health professionals (including dental practitioners), medical researchers, healthcare facilities (including dental clinics) are not permitted to provide any endorsement or testimonial to therapeutic goods, either explicitly or implicitly.

Dental practitioners might recall the regulatory changes for custom-made medical devices in 2021, leading to many practitioners working on or supplying dental devices being required to register these products with the ATGR and meeting all compliance, reporting and conformity assessment obligations. Through the work of the Dental Sector Working Group and the TGA, regulatory amendments were made to reduce the administrative burden on the changes to dental practitioners. It is important to note that any exemption made for dental practitioners does not remove the general obligations related to the affected products under the advertising code.

READ MORE

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promotional tips for dental practitioners

When the legislative requirements of the Australian Consumer Law, the National Law and the TGA Advertising Code are considered together, the following key points must be noted:

1

Advertising includes all forms of verbal, printed and electronic communication that promotes and attracts a person to a product, a provider or a service. Your private social media posts to your friends and relatives may be regarded as advertising as they are also members of the public or consumers.

Your comments about a particular dental device and/or treatment on your Facebook page may be regarded as communication to the public, either directly or indirectly.

2

Statements about your products and services must be accurate, balanced and substantiated with accepted evidence.

Misleading statements, either intentionally or unintentionally, are not permitted.

If a dental hygienist sets up a mobile dental service without the support of a dentist, consumers may mistake the service as a full dental service. Every effort must be made to ensure consumers are fully informed of the scope of service and that no dentist is available through this engagement.

Full disclosure of the staff qualification and registration categories are useful.

3

It is illegal for a dental practitioner to provide testimonials and endorsements on therapeutic goods.

4

You are responsible for all comments posted on channels that you have control of.

Monitor and remove noncomplying postings on your website, online blogs or social media.

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Avoid comparative statements unless there are clear and substantiated evidence for a proper and complete comparison.

Statements such as ‘we are the best’, ‘we are the cheapest’ cannot always be substantiated, while ‘our highly qualified staff’ collectively ‘compares’ the level of qualifications.

Please refer to the respective legislations for further details of do‘s and don'ts when promoting your dental products, services and practices.

24 DHAA AWARDS

Community Champions As the search begins for nominations for the 2022 DHAA Community Service, The Bulletin catches up with two previous winners to see what they’re up to into the clinic treating her patients, as well as offering oral health education to schools. Her passion is educating and motivating her patients to achieve optimal oral health. She keeps in touch with Kingston Beach Dental and looks forward to starting back with them after her maternity leave.

Congratulations Hannah! Exciting and busy times for you ahead. We wish you all the best in the safe arrival of your baby boy in June.

Hannah Colantoni 2019 DHAA Oral Health Award for Community Service

Cathyrn Carboon 2018 DHAA Oral Health Award for Community Service

Since being awarded the 2019 DHAA Oral Health Award for community service, Hannah Colantoni continued to work at Kingston Beach Dental where she established a highly successful hygiene program. She also continued contributing to oral health blogs to provide oral health education to members of the community and continued to mentor new oral health therapists and trained new dental assistants who started at the practice.

Hannah worked closely with periodontists Raymond Chan and Emma Megson at Macquarie Street Periodontists where she enjoyed treating and caring for patients at the clinic. She also attended the round table meetings hosted by Macquarie Street Periodontists.

Shortly after winning her award, Hannah began maternity (earlier than expected, on doctors’ advice due to the pandemic). She gave birth to her beautiful daughter in June 2020 and is currently expecting a little boy in June this year.

Hannah looks forward to getting back

Since being awarded the 2018 DHAA Oral Health Award for Community Service, Cathryn Carboon has continued to volunteer in many oral health promotion projects. Here is a snapshot of her community involvement.

Carevan Foundation Cathryn continues to serve as a Carevan Foundation Board Member, helping guide the Carevan’s community service work in Albury and Wodonga. Each year the Carevan provides up to 20,000 meals and school lunches to homeless and disadvantaged families. Over 700 secondary students participate in the Carevan’s Cooking & Caring program.

Carevan Sun Smiles 10-year celebrations in 2022!

In June 2012, the Carevan Sun Smiles program was launched at Wodonga West Primary School. Cathryn designed, implemented and evaluated the program with the support of Dr. John Brabant, an

orthodontist and Founder of the Carevan.

In the past 10 years, the free program has provided 1000’s of school children with oral health education, plaque disclosing workshops, oral health puppetry, healthy eating, dental screening, fluoride varnish application and care packs with ageappropriate oral hygiene products.

Sun Smiles was nominated as Australia’s IFDH Social Responsibility program, which was showcased at the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene in Brisbane in 2019. The Sun Smiles program is designed to promote a sense of social responsibility within the Bachelor of Oral Health students who volunteer for the program. Cathryn is a keen mentor and advocate in ‘giving back to the community’ as part of our professional care and commitment to the dental hygiene profession. #books4bushfires Cathryn was deeply touched by the Australian bushfire crisis that unfolded during the summer of 2019/2020 in her local community. She was inspired by the fundraising efforts of the organisation #AuthorsForFireys, where authors donated their signed books to raise money for Australian firefighters and other bushfire appeals. This led Cathryn to organise a fundraising appeal with the Carevan Foundation called #books4bushfires. Author-signed copies of Cathryn’s children’s picture book “Who is the Tooth Fairy’s best friend?” were sold at Wangaratta businesses and the Wangaratta Library throughout February 2020. The Carevan Foundation donated the proceeds to support families affected by bushfires in Northeast Victoria and country NSW.

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Sustainable Smiles Every year, thousands of used oral care products (toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, floss containers) end up in landfill across Australia, contributing to environmental pollution. As oral health professionals, we have an ethical duty to be responsible for the oral care products that we recommend. In 2021 Cathryn decided to take up the challenge of launching a community-based recycling project, based on the Colgate TerraCycle Oral Care Recycling Program.

Oral care recycling stations were set up at the Wangaratta Library, Kindergarten and Childcare Services. Oral care recycling information was provided as part of the Council’s “March into Sustainability” program at the local library.

Bright, engaging social media posts were developed for Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Social media tags were used, including #SustainableSmiles.

The Wangaratta Chronicle editor was contacted to support the campaign. Two articles were published in the newspaper, targeting community members who were not on social media.

An Oral Health Hamper competition was held to encourage families to collect and recycle their oral care waste

at the recycling stations, for their chance to win an oral health hamper with sustainable dental products and children’s oral health books. Oral health packs were distributed to all children taking part in the program. Over 150 families were involved in the recycling program, with hundreds of used toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and floss containers collected and sent for recycling.

This is definitely a program that every DHAA member should consider implementing in their own community, it is very rewarding to know that you can make a difference to support sustainable practices and in turn help improve the environment by addressing the issue of oral care waste.

Sustainable Smiles is worth promoting to the whole dental profession. It is easy to implement, involves positive collaboration within the community and early education sectors and can also be implemented in private dental practices.

The Tooth Fairy’s best friend: digital oral health literacy project In 2021, the Australian Dental Health Foundation and Mars Wrigley Foundation awarded a Healthier Smiles Community Service Grant to the Carevan Foundation

to promote digital oral health literacy as part of the Carevan Sun Smiles program.

Cathryn worked closely with a multidisciplinary team of Deakin University FreelancingHUB students to develop a suite of digital oral health resources based on the successful children’s picture book “Who is the Tooth Fairy’s best friend?” The animated narrated digital edition of the book was launched at the DHAA Victorian Branch meeting in Kooyong in December 2021.

These digital resources will be made available on the DHAA consumer website.

This initiative is a great example of pivoting to online digital oral health literacy resources to meet the challenges of delivering oral health promotion during the ongoing Covid19 pandemic.

To view the digital edition of the book, click on the link .

The Pyjama Fairy Project: Brush, Book, Bed! In 2022 Cathryn will once again team up with the Deakin University FreelancingHUB to leverage off the success of the Tooth Fairy’s Best Friend digital project and draw inspiration from international children’s health programs, including the American Academy of Pediatrics and BookTrust.

“The Pyjama Fairy” digital online children’s storybook and resources will be developed for young children to accompany the theme of “Brush, Book, Bed”; taking a wholistic approach to link a child’s bedtime sleep routine with early literacy (reading books together) and night-time teeth brushing. The free resources will be available later in 2022 watch this space!

What amazing achievements Cathryn!

You have certainly been very busy. Thank you for your continuous contribution. We look forward to seeing what you get up to next!

Want to nominate someone for the 2022 award? Turn the page for details...

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ADVERTISEMENT

Quality over quantity How less fluoride can actually be more

Moira Crawford speaks to Prof Hill and asks how less fluoride can actually be more

F

luoride has long been seen as the ‘magic bullet’ in dental protection. There’s no doubt that the introduction of fluoride has had a beneficial effect on the rates of decay, especially among children from deprived backgrounds, but it may be time to reassess the levels of fluoride that are given.

Too much fluoride, caused either by fluoride treatment or children ingesting toothpaste, can cause fluorosis and has led to strong anti-fluoride lobby.

In the UK scientists are now arguing that high concentrations of fluoride alone are actually not the best strategy.

Professor Robert Hill, research director at the Dental Institute and head of dental physical sciences at Queen Mary University of London, has been researching this area for some years, and is convinced that applying ever higher concentrations of fluoride to the teeth does not have the benefit that has previously been believed. ‘Simply increasing the amount of fluoride within the toothpaste is frankly a crude solution,’ he argues. ‘Much of the additional soluble fluoride just goes to waste.’

The problem with fluoride toothpaste Professor Hill’s experiments have demonstrated that when conventional fluoride toothpaste containing a soluble fluoride such as sodium fluoride or sodium monofluorophosphate is used, there is an immediate ‘high’ of fluoride in the mouth, but that this drops rapidly as the toothpaste is washed away by salivary flow, so that after around only 100 minutes the amount of fluoride that remains is below therapeutic levels (Figure 1). Even at high concentrations, the fluoride is rapidly washed away, so the effect is only short term.

A further drawback is that high concentrations of fluoride form calcium fluoride (also known as fluorite) instead of fluorapatite, which is what is required for effective remineralisation. In large quantities fluorite can form a whitish crust on the tooth surface, which was previously thought to act as a reservoir of fluoride, but Professor Hill’s completely insoluble, and does not release fluoride at all,’ he explains.

Figure1:Soluble fluoride drops rapidly below therapeutic levels

BioMin F

Sensitivity In order for the glass to dissolve slowly where it’s needed, the toothpaste has to stay on the teeth.

The polymer used in Biomin F increases the viscosity of the toothpaste, but also chemically bonds to both the calcium in the tooth enamel and the calcium in the Biomin F, so that it sticks to the tooth surface and remains in place to release the fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions for several hours .

As the glass particle size is very small, these particles are able to enter the dentinal tubules and work to occlude these . FluorapThe fluoride contained within the glass structure of atite forms preferentially on the apatite rich walls BioMin F is released slowly over around 12 hours and of the peritubular dentine within the tubules gradis therefore used more effectively. Prof. Hill says: ‘As it ually occluding them, an effect still visible after dissolves, the glass structure in BioMin F provides a acid challenge . Professor Hill and his research slow release vehicle for the fluoride, calcium and team believe that fluorapatite crystals probably phosphate together, enabling it to form fluorapatite, favour growing on the existing apatite-rich walls of which is more stable and resistant to acid conditions.’ the dentinal tubules, which have a higher mineral content.

BioMin F continues to remineralise tooth As the fluorapatite occludes the dentinal tubules, enamel for approximately 12 hours but some it reduces the flow of fluid, known as hydraulic effects are still continuing at 24 hours after conductance, which is the cause of sensitivity. brushing.

Studies at Queen Mary have shown that the fluorapatite formed by the dissolution of the glass in How fluoride works in Biomin F BioMin F is more resistant to acid challenge than BioMin F has been developed to address three key hydroxy-carbonated apatite formed from soluble problems in dental health: hypersensitivity, caries fluoride in conventional toothpastes, and so the and dental erosion, caused by loss of tooth enamel tubules remain occluded more completely. or demineralisation. Under normal conditions, the The hydraulic conductance shows a greater hydroxyapatite mineral in tooth enamel is in dypercentage reduction as well as faster remnamic equilibrium with the calcium, phosphate and ineralisation rates than other toothpastes hydroxyl ions in saliva, but under acidic conditions, tested, says Professor Hill. such as following an acidic drink, this equilibrium is shifted, the pH in the mouth falls and demineralisa- Professor Hill and his research team’s have shown that it is not quantity of fluoride that improves its tion can occur. efficacy, but quality – the way that it is delivered.

As the bioactive glass in BioMin F gradually dissolves Incorporating fluoride within the structure of the it releases phosphate, calcium and fluoride ions, these work in concert with the saliva to raise pH and bioactive glass, combining it with phosphate and restore equilibrium. Even more clever, at a lower pH calcium ions to enable quicker production of stable, acid-resistant fluorapatite, and adhering the the glass dissolves faster, so that the effect kicks in product to the teeth so that it can dissolve slowly more rapidly. where it can deposit fluorapatite most effectively, Professor Hill summarises: ‘This smart response is the key to its effectiveness. Biomin F is a smart means that if the user consumes an acidic drink, toothpaste, using new technology to deliver effiBioMin F dissolves faster to protect the teeth against cient remineralisation at levels of fluoride far lower acid dissolution.’ than conventional toothpastes. It seems that in this case, less fluoride really can be more!

Professor Hill and his team have developed a toothpaste that contains a bioactive glass that delivers a combination of calcium, phosphate and fluoride-ions to promote effective remineralisation of tooth enamel through the production of fluorapatite. Because the fluoride in BioMin F is incorporated within the structure of the glass, it is delivered gradually as the glass dissolves, and therefore a lower concentration (approx 530 ppm is required yet is more effective.

Figure2a: Scanningelectron micrograph image showing tubule occlusionbefore brushing with Biomin F

Figure2b:Scanning electron micrograph image showing tubule occlusion after acid challenge

27 DHAA ORAL HEALTH AWARD 2022

Nominate your champion Know somebody who’s an absolute oral hygiene legend in the community? Then we want to hear about them. Follow the steps below to nominate your champion The DHAA is recognising oral health practitioners who are making a meaningful contribution to our profession with the annual DHAA Oral Health Award.

Dental hygienists, oral health therapists and dental therapists share a focus on prevention and collectively are known as oral health practitioners.

This award recognises the excellent contribution of oral health practitioners at the grassroots level in improving health outcomes and the well-being of the general public.

This award seeks to tell the stories of the vital work of the quiet achievers within the oral health profession.

ELIGIBILITY To be eligible for nomination to the Award, the nominee must be a current DHAA member, and has proven accomplishments in one or more of the following aspects: n Community service - making a difference to the community n Leadership - innovating, inspiring and mentoring others within the profession n Research and education - breaking new grounds, provision of positive and enriching learning for the profession and the general public n Clinical excellence - advocating and pioneering best practice n Volunteering - to improve oral health in Australia or overseas n Service to the DHAA - selfless and generous contribution to the DHAA SELECTION CRITERIA The selection panel will score each nominee by considering the following: n Impact of their reported accomplishments on the health and wellbeing of the public or the oral health profession. n The extent of work undertaken that goes above and beyond the nominal activities of the nominee’s paid role(s) Preference will be given to nominees that have not been recognised previously for the reported accomplishments.

NOMINATION REQUIREMENTS All nominees must be members of the DHAA. Sitting state and federal officeholders are not eligible. n Nominations should be completed using the nomination form.

n Anyone may submit a nomination with the candidate›s permission. n Nominations must clearly document why the candidate should be considered, above all others, for these distinguished awards. n All nominations must contain sufficient evidence of achievement: project details, community/patient/ organisation testimonials to inform the selection process without additional research. (1x A4 page + attachments) n Nominations must include the details of a referee for the nominee from current or former colleagues, employers, editors, students or associates. n A nominee need only be nominated once to be considered.

DHAA ORAL HEALTH AWARD NOMINATION FORM Nominations can be made via email using this downloadable form.

DOWNLOAD FORM

SELECTION PROCESS All nominations received will be assessed by a panel with recommendations put to the DHAA Board of Directors for final approval. The panel will consist of three people, with at least one current Director of the DHAA. RECOGNITION Oral Health Award recipients are recognised annually at the DHAA National Symposium with a plaque and acknowledged in the DHAA Bulletin. n

PROMOTION

MEET OUR CORPORATE MEMBERS Steve Plakotaris

CEO, Managing Director of Dr Mark’s Hygenie Pty Ltd.

“ Our company mission is to reduce the physical, emotional and financial costs of RDA-related oral disease, through mass adoption and use of HyGenie products.”

How long have you been with Dr Mark’s Hygenie?

As one of the founders and co-inventor, since day one… October 2014.

Tell us a little more about the company?

Dr Mark’s HyGenie has developed and now distributes an innovative range of break through oral hygiene products purpose designed for optimum home or institutional aftercare of nearly all manner of Removable Dental Appliances (RDA).

The brand and product range provides fast working, simple to use and affordable solutions for the cleaning, care and hygiene of dentures, nightguards, orthodontic appliances (like Invisalign and retainers), splints and sports mouthguards.

The focus shifted from merely availability to serving the dental community by education on prevention with innovative products and high customer satisfaction.

What makes Dr Mark’s Hygenie special?

Our company, brand and product range is a world-first, the only ‘all in one’ brushing, cleansing and storage system, purpose designed for oral appliance care and hygiene.

Why have you chosen to become a DHAA Corporate Member?

Our company mission is closely aligned with the

mission and vision of the DHAA and its members – optimum oral hygiene and good overall oral health.

What are Dr Mark’s Hygenie’s goals regarding oral health?

Our company mission is to reduce the physical, emotional and financial costs of RDA-related oral disease, through mass adoption and use of HyGenie products. We aim to be recognised in the professional and consumer marketplace as the global leader in the care of RDA Where can we see you next?

Dr Mark’s HyGenie is easily spotted every day on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.

See us live and in person at ADX22 coming up 17–19 March.

PROMOTION

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Doing Darwin The DHAA Symposium rolls into the top-end city of Darwin in June.

We take a look at some of the exceptional experiences on offer when it’s time to relax

You can check out the full program and register on the official DHAA National Symposium 2022 website.

and crafts. Known amongst locals for its fantastic laksa, satay prawns and fresh tropical smoothies.

Markets

Nightcliff Markets

T

A short drive from Darwin’s CBD the Mindil Markets are run on Thursday and Sunday evenings from 4pm to 9pm. With over 300 stalls you can enjoy the sunset while grabbing a bargain.

Darwin has a range of popular tourist markets with street food, fresh farmed fruits and artisan goods on offer.

Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

ake a break and join us in Darwin for three days of exciting CPD. With hands-on workshops on Thursday and our multi-stream program on Friday and Saturday, there is a topic for everyone.

From oral medicine, periodontics, environmental impacts and TMJ there is a range of topics and a fantastic lineup of speakers.

Parap Village Markets

The Parap Village Markets is run on a Saturday morning. You can enjoy a freshly roasted coffee while you stroll stalls of delicious cuisine and local arts

REGISTER TODAY

Unique and stunning sigh ts, sounds and experiences

If art, craft, and vintage is more your style then head to the Nightcliff markets on a Sunday morning. With lots of craft and second-hand stalls, you can soak up the relaxed atmosphere and check out the recycled and vintage goods.

Enjoy the waterfront and city attractions

A five-minute walk from the city and the venue for our conference, the waterfront has a range of activities for every age group. Take a dip in the saltwater lagoon, enjoy the wave pool, or take a walk through the lush parklands to recharge. If you’re a foodie then explore

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the cafés, eateries, or craft beer from the waterfront taverns.

Looking for inspiration of where to head, check out the local tips on the Darwin Waterfront Instagram brought to you by the NT Government.

crocodiles in the wild you can hop on a jumping crocodile cruise at the Adelaide River and watch the salties leap from the water from the safety of your boat.

Art and Culture

Only an 1.5-hour drive from Darwin will take you to Litchfield National Park where you can check out the colourful birds, take a bushwalk through the monsoonal rainforest; cool off in the crystal-clear swimming holes and waterfalls or follow the 4WD track through the lost city of towering termite mounds.

Darwin has a rich and diverse art scene with a mix of contemporary galleries, street art and small hidden galleries. You can wander the streets and take in the multi-storey coloured wildlife and local identities painted on the city walls or head down a laneway and explore the small hidden gems. Soak in the aboriginal culture and learn about the Dreamtime stories from the land’s traditional owners.

Crocodiles

Must-see art galleries

Litchfield National Park

It wouldn’t be a trip to Darwin without seeing the Crocodiles. You can head to Crocodile Cove and swim with the crocs or take a pic with a baby saltwater crocodile.

While you are there you can check out the freshwater aquarium, turtles, and the reptile house.

If you’d prefer to head out and see some

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (MAGNT)

Enjoy the megafauna and wildlife

The Darwin Convention Centre

displays, the maritime exhibition and take a step back in time to 1900 with the Unruly Days exhibition – website.

Sister7

Bring along a coffee and explore Darwin’s first women-only gallery showcasing professional Aboriginal female artists – website.

Aboriginal Bush Traders ­

Take home a piece of the Territory with aboriginal jewellery, books, candles and larger canvases available all under the roof of the almost 100-year-old Lyons Cottage – website.

Check out the Symposium Travel deals available to delegates on the Tourism Top-End website. n

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Conquering Change Lyn Carman asks; Is the fear of change holding you back?

I

t was Bill Gates who said, “You always overestimate the change that will occur in the next two years and underestimate the change that will occur in the next ten. Don’t let yourself be lulled into inaction.”

The Greek philosopher, Heraclitus of Ephesus, said, “The only constant in life is change”.

Yet, when change happens, it often takes you by surprise. You are human.

Everything is constantly changing, whether you are aware of it or not – the environment, the weather, the economy, technology, society, culture, your friends and family, your body … everything. The more comfortable you get with change in your world, the easier it will be for you to live your best life.

Change can be frightening or even terrifying when the meaning you give it involves risk or loss – perhaps it’s simply the loss of what is familiar and comfortable.

Change can also be a new adventure with unlimited potential to develop.

Change is an opportunity for new experiences, growth, learning, and evolution for you as a person.

After all, change asks you to learn new things, master new skills, and develop new qualities like flexibility, optimism, courage and persistence And when this happens, you ultimately become a better and more capable person.

Change is like the tide, it’s inevitable.

When you resist, it feels like you are fighting against the incoming tide and trying to hold back the waters - it’s exhausting and hopeless.

When you embrace and accept change, it’s like floating effortlessly, knowing the tide will turn – you will still need to

“ Change can be frightening or even terrifying when the meaning you give it involves risk or loss – perhaps it’s simply the loss of what is familiar and comfortable.” control where you float to, but you won’t feel like you are fighting the tide … and life gets easier.

You can’t stop the world from ‘worlding’ … from doing its thing. You can’t control the events that happen - they happen out of your control. You may not be able to do much to change them … BUT you CAN change your response to them and experience them differently. You can control your response to events and ensure the outcome you experience in your life is as positive as possible.

Remember, YOU always have control over how you choose to respond to things – when you respond with an attitude of curiosity, optimism and confidence, it is so

much easier to not only survive change but to thrive throughout change.

“Everything can be taken away from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms – to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances” Victor Frankl - Man’s search for meaning.

Personally, I feel as though I have transitioned through many different metamorphoses in my career: starting out as a Dental Assistant (DA) when I was just 18 years old … and in my personal life as well - each time I have had to get comfortable and embrace change.

My latest endeavour brings me into contact with business owners and oral health professionals alike - the constant

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common theme I come across is fear of change.

This fear holds you back from living a full life. Life is not meant to be simply just a life of comfort, of mediocre moments, of being stagnant and doing the same thing over and over again – Groundhog Day! This life was meant to be lived; to be experienced; to live a life where at the end you will have no regrets.

If you are living in Australia, you are among the most privileged on the planet.

Don’t get me wrong, I understand this is a very big statement and there are always exceptions, though generally speaking, I believe this to be true.

At this point (2022), when you have

had to learn to adapt to change like no other time in your lives, you may have embraced the opportunity to “pivot” (I use this word with volition); to innovate; to grow and experience a positive outcome for your life and those around you.

Congratulations!

Or, you may have struggled to keep control of your world; to hold back the tide and feel exhausted; stagnant, undervalued, paralysed and fearful. You are not alone! One of the biggest fears holding us back in life is difficulty in making decisions. We have probably been taught from a very young age “be careful, it might be the wrong decision” and we are also taught not to make mistakes. So,

by not choosing, we are making a choice to deprive ourselves of what makes our life full.

Remember, in order to change your world, all you need to do is to change the way you think about it. What if you are faced with the choice of staying in your job or taking a new one - off goes our inner voice, the see-saw of “what ifs” If I stay, I may miss an opportunity for growth, but if I go, I may not be able to handle it. It’s easy to stay here, but I’ll have more opportunities to move ahead in the new job, and perhaps earn more money, but what if I regret leaving?

Or... isn’t it fantastic I have the opportunity for a new job! What an amazing opportunity to meet new people, feel valued, stimulated and learn a new way of doing things. If it doesn’t work out, I know I’ll handle it and there will be even more opportunities. I will have even more clarity about what I am seeking, I am growing and learning and I have courage.

Are you waiting for the fear to go away before you act? The fear never goes away.

The only way you can overcome the fear of something is to go out do the thing you fear - Say “Yes!” and then work out how … feel the fear and do it anyway! (One of my favourite books “Feel the fear and do it Anyway” – Susan Jeffers) When we wait for something ‘out there’ to make a decision for us, we give our power away.

Take small steps towards where you want to go, but most importantly, act now.

Make a decision today that you will be proud of, especially if it fills you with fear.

“Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” – Napoleon Hill n

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A full state-by-state run-down of Association happenings around the country

STATE NATION ACT ACT contacts: Director Amy McDermott directoract@dhaa.info Staff Bill Suen bill.suen@dhaa.info

n After a challenging year, the ACT committee hosted its 2021 end of year catchup on Saturday 4 December at the East Hotel. This was an excellent CPD session with a great lunch for colleagues to catch up, relax and mingle.

The education content included Professor Sam Kosari on pharmacology, Periodontist Dr Hugh Lenehan on mucogingival defects and Oral Surgeon Dr Ragu Krishnamoorthy on Temporomandibular Joint Disorders. All presenters were wellspoken with informative and expert content that enriched the attendee’s clinical knowledge.

A big thank you to longserving ACT committee members Darly Phillips and Michelle Bonney who are retiring from their committee roles. We also wish Darly well as she moves back to her home country of New Zealand.

Congratulations to ACT

A good-natured gathering in ACT

member Annika Johansson who successfully completed the DHAA Education Program and is now ready to be one of the pioneers providing on site oral health services to local aged care facilities.

DHAA CEO Bill Suen has been invited by the ACT Chief Allied Health Officer to present to the 2022 Allied Health Professional Association Forum in March, on the topic of the DHAA Aged Care Program.

NSW NSW contacts: Director Warrick Edwards directornsw@dhaa.info Chair Jody Inouye chairnsw@dhaa.info Deputy Chair Jinous Eighani-Roushani contactnsw@dhaa.info

n The NSW Committee farewelled Steven Chu who retired from his role

as NSW Committee chair, as he is now a new father.

Congratulations and a big thank you.

Deputy Chair Jody Inouye has stepped up as chair, with committee member Jinous Eighani-Roushani filling the deputy chair position.

The Hunter Valley full-day event in March had to be cancelled due to difficulties encountered by attendees and presenters as a result of the increased risk of COVID transmissions.

The program is now to be delivered virtually and extended to a national audience as a result. This full day of CPD features a range of specialist dental professionals, including periodontists, oral maxillofacial surgeons and a

35 For all the latest info on DHAA events please visit www.dhaa.info/events

“ The DHAA will be at the Sydney ADX, in March, to meet members... Please drop in and say hello to them if you are attending” special needs specialist.

The DHAA will be at the Sydney ADX, in March, to meet members. Warrick Edwards, Jody Inouye, Steven Chu, Jinous Eighani-Roushani and Jacquie Biggar will be at the DHAA stand during the event. Please drop in and say hello to them if you are attending.

NT

ADOHTA to plan face to face events in NT in the second half of 2022. In the meantime, we will continue to inform NT members of CPD activities locally from other dental organisations.

NT Minister for Health Natasha Fyles, has accepted our invitation to open and address the Darwin Symposium in June. This provides a great opportunity for NT members to meet with the minister and discuss their local issues. Sunrise registration is now open until 14 March that offers a saving of over $200.

NT members should not miss this great opportunity to attend our flagship national event at home.

Qld

NT Contact: Director Hellen Checker. directornt@dhaa.info

Qld Contacts: Director Carol Tran. directorqld@dhaa.info

Staff Bill Suen bill.suen@dhaa.info

Chair Lizzy Horsfall chairqld@dhaa.info

n The NT is seeking a local member to be the DHAA representative/chair. The role is to be the local eyes and ears for issues pertaining to NT. Please contact either Hellen Checker or Bill Suen for further details or discussion regarding the role.

We are working with

Deputy Chair Stacey Billinghurst contactqld@dhaa.info

n Queensland committee thanks the great work of outgoing chair Jen Turnbull.

Under her leadership, the committee organised many great local events and undertook a significant amount of advocacy

“ The next Queensland event has been re-scheduled...

The extensive program includes ADA’s Dr Martin Webb to provide an introduction to item codes, health fund audits and common misconceptions in relation to provider numbers.” activities during her tenure.

We are grateful for deputy chair Lizzy Horsfall to step up as new chair, while Stacey Billinghurst is now deputy chair.

The next Queensland event has been re-scheduled from February to the new date of Saturday 23 April 2022 at the Gold Coast QT Hotel. The extensive program includes ADA’s Dr Martin Webb to provide an introduction to item codes, health fund audits and common misconceptions in relation to provider numbers.

This is an important topic as our profession gains access to provider numbers in coming months. Other topics include dental volunteering, Micropigmentation & Oral

Feature restoration, HPV and clinical presentations, Medicinal cannabis uses and oral implications, Child protection, youth justice & the indigenous community.

The Queensland committee is looking forward to catching up with members for another relaxing and enjoyable day of CPD and networking.

SA SA Contacts Director Cheryl Dey cheryl.dey@dhaa.info Chair Sue Tosh chairsa@dhaa.info Chair Sally Hinora contactsa@dhaa.info

n To celebrate a challenging but successful year, the South Australia Committee hosted its Christmas get-together brunch on 5 December at Jamer’s Kitchen in Bowden.

The keynote speaker Professor Paula Moynihan is an internationally renowned researcher in the field of nutrition and oral health with extensive research on the interrelationship between diet and oral health.

She provided a presentation on the relationship between

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“ Founding DHAA National President Sue Aldenhoven provided a summary of the history of DHAA to celebrate our 30th birthday.”” nutrition and oral health, diet and dental caries, infant feeding, and impacts of compromised oral health on nutritional status.

Founding DHAA National President Sue Aldenhoven provided a summary of the history of DHAA to celebrate our 30th birthday.

Members had an excellent discussion and relived many momentous occasions throughout time.

Moving forward, we are likely to collaborate more with the ADOHTA and ADA for local CPD events, so please look out for information in your regular DHAA member emails.

Tas

Vic

Tas Contact Director: Alyson McKinlay directortas@dhaa.info

Vic Contacts Director Ron Knevel. directorvic@dhaa.info

Staff Bill Suen bill.suen@dhaa.info

Chair Desiree Bolado chairvic@dhaa.info

n Tasmanian Chair Michael Charlton-Fitzgerald has moved to Western Australia so we are looking for a new Tasmania chair to lead our activities. A big thank you to Michael’s hard work over the past couple of years and we wish him the best of luck with his new venture.

Deputy Chair Aimee Mills contactvic@dhaa.info

A great turn-out from SA members

n Congratulations to Victorian Committee Chair and Employment Officer Desiree Bolado and husband Braedyn on the birth of their son, Kurt.

Desiree is enjoying her maternity leave and we look

forward to her return in the coming months.

Things are relatively quiet in Victoria at the moment, with the La Trobe University small groups intensive hands-on CPD weekend in February being cancelled due to staff shortage at the university. We are working towards relaunching the program in the second half of the year.

WA WA Contacts Director: Phoebe Thomas . directorwa@dhaa.info Chair: Carmen Jones chairwa@dhaa.info Deputy Chair: Rhonda Kremmer contactwa@dhaa.info

n Western Australia planned to kick start the 2022 CPD

Sue Aldenhoven

“ We have combined part of the [WA Summer Smiles full-day event] program with the NSW Hunter Valley program to be delivered virtually across the country” program with a Summer Smiles full-day event which unfortunately had to be cancelled due to COVID. Instead, we have combined part of the program with the NSW Hunter Valley program to be delivered virtually across the country live on Saturday 12 March. The program times allow for WA members to attend most of the topics live, with the option of viewing them on demand at their own time afterwards. n

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