The Bulletin - Issue 32 September/October 2014

Issue 32 September/October 2014

The official newsletter of the Dental Hygienists’ Association of Australia Inc.

Caring for the kids We check out the Carevan Sun Smiles Program Page 14

MAKING A DIFFERENCE Rewarding work at the Indigenous Health centre GO WITH THE FLOW Exploring the numerous advantages of air polishing

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This is your Bulletin – keeping you informed Welcome to the third edition of the Bulletin for 2014. Yvonne and Erika on the editorial team welcomed a third member, Joanna Mohammadi, and the team is working together to ensure that your Bulletin continues to provide high-quality and engaging articles for our members.

As I reflect on the many personal changes I have made in the past six months – taking on the role of President, relocating to another state and starting a new job – I am also pondering the changes that the Association needs to make to ensure that it fulfils the needs of its members. In a climate where governments are cutting funding to preventive health agreements, registration standards are changing and research is providing new evidence on oral health care, how can the DHAA continue to advance and support its members?

One step we are taking is the proposed restructure of the Association. It is envisaged that this strategy will increase our financial strength, operational effectiveness and create a stronger voice when advocating for our profession.

Please ensure you read through the documentation that you have received in emails and provide feedback.

On behalf of the States, the National DHAA has been working on this project over the past two years, and we anticipate seeking the members support at a Special General Meeting at the Symposium (keep an eye out for electronic voting instructions for those not attending).

We are also in the process of engaging a full-time Executive Officer, who will help build the profile of the DHAA, deliver key services to members, and reduce our reliance on volunteers. Some things won’t change of course – we will continue to provide excellent CPD events, free IR advice and carry on keeping you all up-todate via the Bulletin and regular email updates.

On a final note, the DHAA National Symposium is only a couple of months away. If you haven’t registered yet, I encourage you to get on to www. canberrasymposium.com and check out the diverse program being offered.

I look forward to seeing many of you there!

Contents 03 President’s Message Look left!!!

04 Industrial Relations We answer your questions.

07 DBA Forum Report Rounding up the best bits.

09 New Qld Councillor Introducing Karen Toms.

10 Book Review Symposium 2014 is coming!

12 DHAA Wellness Day Get the official report.

14 C OVER STORY Caring for the Kids – aiming to give kids a brighter smile.

18 Making a Difference Working at the Centre for Indigenous Health

20 Go with the Flow A detailed look at the benefits of air polishing.

22 State of the Nation A state-by-state round-up of what’s been going on.

26 Event Planner Check what’s happening for the rest of 2014.

Mel Hayes DHAA National President

National Executive PRESIDENT Mel Hayes CONTACT

VICE PRESIDENT Jo Purssey CONTACT

TREASURER Cheryl Day CONTACT

NATIONAL ADMINISTRATOR Patricia Chan CONTACT

IT Rep Josh Galpin CONTACT

The Bulletin is an official publication of the DHAA Inc. Contributions to The Bulletin do not necessarily represent the views of the DHAA Inc. 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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Q&A

INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS

We answer some of the Industrial Relations questions more commonly asked by Dental Hygienists and ohts

Annual Leave REFUSED I have four weeks annual leave accrued, yet my employer has refused my request to take three and a half weeks annual leave in two weeks’ time to go on a much-needed overseas trip.

The refusal is on the basis that; a) my absence will be occurring during the busiest time of the year for the practice; b) the other hygienist had already applied for two weeks leave during the same period and she did so before I did and he says he has already approved it; and c) that he cannot afford to pay for a casual hygienist to cover my absence (which he says would have been necessary because the other hygienist would have been on leave at that time too.)

Can my employer do this to me when I have already booked my flights and paid a non-refundable deposit for the accommodation?

Do I have a right to ask for documentary evidence that the other hygienist applied

for leave before me? If I have to delay my holiday, I will lose my deposit and will not be able to take advantage of the cheap fares that time of year.

I am in New South Wales.

Yes, your employer can do this. The Fair Work Act says that requests to take annual leave cannot be unreasonably refused. The three reasons you have been given, if they are accurate, are highly likely to be deemed reasonable if they were tested by the Fair Work Commission.

Having said that, you do not have a right to receive documentary evidence to prove that the other hygienist applied for leave before you did. It is important not to pay for any holiday expenses before your employer has definitely approved your leave. The fact that you have sufficient leave accrued to cover your absence does not change this situation. While it is not covered by legislation, it is usual practice for “first in, best dressed” to apply to leave situations and while two weeks notice will sometimes

be sufficient for an employer to accommodate an annual leave request, it will not be adequate in all circumstances.

LACK OF Long Service Leave I am a long-term casual employee in Queensland.

I have worked for my practice as a hygienist on the basis of a 38 hour week every week for the last 14 years.

My employer says I am not entitled to long service leave because I am a casual and that I was paid a casual loading in lieu of any entitlement to any paid leave including long service leave.

Is that correct? I have kept all my pay slips for my entire period of employment.

Your employer is not correct. You are entitled to Long Service Leave as a longterm casual. In Queensland, the number of hours leave to which a long-term casual employee is entitled is calculated by dividing the total ordinary hours worked

during the period of service by 52, and multiplying this amount by 8.6667/10 (8.6667 weeks long service leave is due after 10 years).

Employers are required to keep records of the total ordinary hours worked during the period of service for each staff member, as this is a requirement of the legislation.

So it is not essential that you have kept your payslips, as the employer is obliged by law to keep such records, but retention of pay slips makes a claim to your employer and if that is unsuccessful, to Fair Work Ombudsman, a great deal easier.

The workings and entitlement for Long Service Leave differ across Australia.

DHAA Inc members should access the DHAA Inc website to seek advice from IR Advice Line if they have any queries about their own long service leave entitlements or how to calculate them. Follow the prompts set out in the tabs to provide the necessary detail so you can obtain the correct information for your individual circumstances.

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Covert Recording I am in South Australia and feel I am not being treated fairly and I want to keep a record. Am I allowed to secretly record a conversation with my manager or practice manager for use as later evidence if things go wrong?

In South Australia, Victoria, Queensland and the Northern Territory, it is not against the law for a party to a discussion to covertly record that discussion (in South Australia, the employee must be doing so because they feel that they need to protect their position with regard to any future dispute about their position).

In New South Wales, WA and ACT, it is unlawful for an employee to record a discussion without seeking permission from the other parties first. However the fact that in some States and Territories, recording a discussion covertly is lawful, does not mean that

it is the right thing to do.

An employer may have a policy in place (or a term of a contract) prohibiting covert recording, on the basis that it is a breach of trust.

Employees should think very carefully about the ramifications of covertly recording discussions in workplaces before they do so. Only occasionally will such recordings be admissible in Fair Work Commission and other jurisdictions, depending on the circumstances of the case. In general, it is much better practice if disputation is occurring in the workplace, to take dated and detailed notes as soon as you have left the workplace for the day, of events that are of concern.

Pay Slips I have worked for my current employer in Victoria on a casual basis for the last seven years and I have never received a pay slip.

I have asked several times for a payslip but my boss always said that he pays me

correctly and payslips are an administrative overhead that he wishes to avoid and that’s why I am a casual – so he can avoid them. What can I do?

All employees in all States and Territories of Australia, including casual employees, are entitled by law to have correctly set out payslips. This is established by section 536 of the Fair Work Act. Section 535 of the Fair Work Act says that time and wages records must be kept and the Fair Work Regulations specify that time and wages records must be kept for seven years.

A payslip must have on it the following: – the employee’s name – the employer’s name and ABN – the period to which the pay applies – the date on which the payment to which the payslip relates was made – the gross amount of payment – the net amount of payment – any amount paid which is a bonus, loading, allowance penalty rate,

or other separately identifiable payment – the rate of pay, if the employee is hourly paid – the number of hours worked in that period at that rate – the amount of payment made at that rate – superannuation contribution for the period and the name of the fund.

You should tell your employer that you have sought advice from your professional association and have been advised that as an employee in Australia, including casuals, that you are entitled to payslips by law.

He can access the Fair Work Ombudsman’s website (www. fairwork.gov.au) to access pay slip templates. n

GET IN TOUCH If you have a question relating to Industrial Relation matters then please email bulletin@dhaa. info. Be assured that your email will be handled in the strictest confidence. We do not promise to publish them.

6 Guest Speakers including: Dr Michael Dieter Dentist Switzerland

Mary Mowbray RDH New Zealand

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DBA FORUM REPORT Alison Taylor reports back from the Dental Board of Australia’s information session held in Adelaide in August

A

t the recent Dental Board of Australia’s Scope of Practice Forum. A panel of representatives from the Board ran an information session, and this was followed by time for Q&A. Some of the key points that were discussed which I believe are worthy highlighting to all dental practitioners are outlined here. I also wish to respond to questions that DHAA members frequently ask.

It is the responsibility of each individual practitioner to maintain compliance with Dental Board of Australia (DBA) guidelines on CPD. These and all other guidelines are easily available on the DBA website www.dentalboard.gov.au

CPD vs Add-on programs The primary difference between the two programs is that CPD is aimed at maintaining and expanding foundation and current knowledge on techniques and research, whilst Add-on programs are programs of study accredited by the Australian Dental Council and approved by the Dental Board of Australia.

These then result in an extension to an individual’s scope of practice by teaching new foundation knowledge and skills.

A list of Add-on programs is available on the DBA website.

Whilst these two concepts are essentially separate, the hours accrued when undertaking an Add-on program do count toward your registration requirement of 60 hours of CPD per

three-year cycle.

Scope of practice can vary from individual to individual. It is dependent on the foundation knowledge and skills the clinician was originally trained and

to make strategic decisions. Decide which CPD you should seek out or if you should undertake an Add-on program to increase your scope of practice.

In a situation where a structured professional relationship is required – for example between a dental hygienist and a dentist – whilst there is no DBA requirement for the details of the relationship to be specified in writing, clear conditions, boundaries and other arrangements must be formulated into this relationship. The easiest and safest way to do this may be in a document that is accessible to all parties when necessary. This document would also be useful for legal reasons if needed.

One of the main take home messages from the Forum was that all the

“ Scope of practice can vary from individual to individual. It is dependent on the foundation knowledge and skills the clinician was originally trained and deemed competent in.” deemed competent in (i.e. what was taught in the original course when it was undertaken), what further education has been undertaken and what skills the clinician has maintained currency in.

It is up to the individual practitioner to make a judgement about their ability to perform a task. For example, whether you are currently competent in a particular skill or if you feel that you are lacking in current information on a topic or task, then this is the time

information we, as dental practitioners, need regarding our professional registration obligations can be found on the DBA website.

We should all take time and become familiar with this essential information so that we stay compliant with the requirements to keep ourselves, our profession and the public safe.

Alison Taylor is the National Councillor of the South Australia Branch

+ Optic RRP $1,534.50 Inc GST Non-Optic RRP $935.00 Inc GST

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New National Councillor for Qld

D

HAAQ have a new National Councillor, Karen Toms.

With over thirty years of clinical experience as an Oral Health Therapist and School Dental Therapist throughout various locations in Queensland, Karen is extremely passionate about the holistic health of her patients, particularly those with periodontal disease and chronic illnesses.

Upon graduation in the early 80’s, Karen was employed within Queensland Health as a School Dental Therapist and first worked in Inala and Goodna Districts, west of Brisbane.

While raising her children, Karen moved to Cairns and worked part-time as a dental assistant as there was no part time work with Queensland Health as a School Dental Therapist at that time.

As her family commitments allowed, Karen returned to the “School Dental Service” and was employed to work in dental vans in Cairns and also provided itinerant relief on Cape York with the RFDS using portable equipment.

On completion of the academic upgrade in 2001, Karen moved back to Brisbane and commenced working in Brisbane North as an Oral Health Therapist. At this time Karen also set up her own business, Integrated Dental Solutions Pty Ltd, providing support to Specialist Periodontist Dr John Carrigy and Oral Pathologist Dr Simon Moore. The company also supported many other dentists and specialists in Brisbane, Sunshine Coast and Rockhampton.

Karen’s professional life evolved again when she moved to Rockhampton.

Engaged as the Healthy Lifestyle Coordinator, Karen utilised her health

“ Karen has thirty years of clinical experience as an Oral Health Therapist and School Dental Therapist throughout various locations in Queensland.” promotion skills, TAE 40110 in training and assessment, health engagement strategies within business and education for identified “at risk” groups.

Submissions for funding were submitted and two were granted under the Australian Government Swap It program.

The first entailed Indigenous clients with Type Two Diabetes Mellitus attending a TAFE program and the other supported the local PCYC’ s involvement in physical activity programs.

Karen has also been active with a number of programs including; Tobacco Action Group (TAG) – success of the group was lobbying Council for smoke free change at the Rockhampton airport which was effective post the Rockhampton 2011 floods; Rockhampton Culturally and Linguistically Diverse

Reference Group- go for 2n5 campaign in partnership with Ethnic Communities Queensland targeting Pacific Islanders; and Rockhampton Refugee Reference Group- advocating for support within Queensland Health for the recently arrived refugees.

She has been a key member for the Kickstart CQ program offering lifestyle program to support those interested in modifying their current habits towards a healthier lifestyle.

In addition she has supported Diabetes Australia – raising awareness at local organised events; Donate Life – raising awareness of program at Beef Week.

Karen also enjoyed volunteering in Vietnam in 2012 with the Australian Vietnam Volunteers Resource Group in Long Tan. The skills of adaptation from working on Cape York were refreshed whilst in Vietnam!

Karen has lectured to CQUniversity students on Oral and Systemic Conditions and has supervised second year oral health students in the clinical setting. She has also commenced her Masters degree in Public Health by research, and established a partnership with Rockhampton Regional Council and Central Queensland University to research into “The effectiveness of the 10,000 Steps Workplace Challenge” in increasing health outcomes for workers at Rockhampton Regional Council aimed at reducing sedentary behaviour and obesity, and improving physical activity and quality of life.

Karen’s most recent engagement is with UQ in Brisbane as a casual supervisor for the Bachelor of Oral Health Program. n

Book Shelf

Essential reading for the hygiene professional

G GIVE AND TAKE Why helping others drives our success

By Adam Grant Price $32.00 RRP Published by Penguin Group, 2013

ive and Take, by Adam Grant has been named one of the best books of 2013 by Amazon, Apple, the Financial Times, and the Wall Street Journal. It also made the Fortune’s mustread business books, Harvard Business Review’s ideas that shaped management and the Washington’s Post books every leader should read.

The underpinning principle of this book is that by helping others, we drive our own success. The world has frequently seen the model of the charismatic individual as a driver of success, through their passion, hard work and talent.

However, this book argues that success in an organisation increasingly is dependent on how we interact with each other. Grant states that at work most people operate as either ‘takers’, ‘matchers’ or ‘givers’. ‘Takers’ strive to get as much as possible from others, whereas matchers aim to trade evenly, however, ‘givers’ are the rare breed of people who contribute without expecting anything in return. Whilst some ‘givers’ get exploited or burn out, most go on to achieve extraordinary results across a wide range of industries.

The best performing and most effective organisation is one that has the most amount of ‘givers’. ‘Give and Take’ opens up an approach on how effective networking, collaboration, influence, negotiation and leadership skills that has the power to transform the performance

of not just individuals and groups, but entire organisations and communities.

2 Cor 9:7 gives us a simple principle that ‘each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver’, in Luke 6:38, we are asked to ‘Give, and it will be given to you.

Good measure, pressed down, shaken together, running over, will be put into your lap. For with the measure you use it will be measured back to you’ and last but not least, in Malachi 3:10, ‘bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the Lord of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need’.

I hope this will challenge each and every one of us to think how we could ‘give’ in our community so we can bless the wider community around us. n

“ This book argues that success in an organisation increasingly is dependent on how we interact with each other. Grant states that at work most people operate as either ‘takers’, ‘matchers’ or ‘givers’. ”

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DHAA attendS Associations Forum National Conference The Ninth Annual Associations Forum National Conference was held at the National Convention Centre, Canberra in July 2014.

Representing DHAA Inc were; Jo Purssey (Qld), Cheryl Dey and Alison Taylor (SA), Ian Epondulan (NSW) and DHAA National Administrator Patricia Chan. Over 360 attendees from all over nation, enjoyed a vast hall of information booths and displays aimed at the needs of associations. Days were divided into plenary sessions as well as concurrent streams on many different topics related to the purposes, functions, processes and challenges of associations and organisations.

Our representatives attended different sessions to gain as much information as possible on all topics relevant to our Association, and its transformation and progression.

The DHAA representatives

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Well, well, well...

O

n Sunday 24th August DHAA WA held a “Wellness Day” for members which commenced after the AGM. All those attending enjoyed a comprehensive overview on topics relating to musculoskeletal health for the dental practitioner, along with a variety of preventive practices that assist in maintaining overall health and wellbeing. Our three guest speakers and their key messages were as follows.

Richelle Baker

Occupational Therapist

Richelle addressed issues relating to occupational health and safety and our need for awareness of correct ergonomic posture and positioning.

Particular focus was placed on maintaining a correct seating position.

Keep your hip and thigh angle at 90 degrees and your elbows and arms held relatively close to the body. Additionally, position the patient as close to you as possible and at elbow height.

Wearing loupes measured to your individual focal length will allow a more upright position and keep the head centrally aligned to your body.

Richelle advised the importance of an active seating posture, to prevent back muscle strain, whereby core muscles are engaged. Micro postural movement is the key to overcoming common problems associated with static working positions that are a primary cause of muscle fatigue and weakness.

She also recommended that hygienists trial the ‘saddle chair’ but stressed that this is a personal preference and may not suit everyone.

WA’s Wendy Wright reports from the DHAA Wellness Day

Right foot and knee stress associated with repeated ultrasonic scaling and polishing treatments may be relieved by footwear with a slightly elevated heel.

This may not be practical in all settings and is dependent on the individual peddle base.

Regular breaks to stretch and exercise tired muscles will reduce repetitive injury strain.

Finally, Richelle explained that musculoskeletal pain is often the final sign of an injury that is likely to have been caused over a period of time and requires prompt attention and remedial action.

Daniel Clarke and Brett Limpus

Accredited Exercise Physiologists As practitioners in allied health, Exercise Physiologists provide nondiagnostic treatment for acute and chronic conditions through prescribed exercise programs.

Patients are often GP referred but can also consult directly to access preventive exercise programs that are individualised for measurable and successful outcomes.

Recommendations for dental hygienists and oral health therapists included the wearing of loupes, working posture awareness and allowing a two minute stretching regime between patients. Stretches should include; Upper Trapezius, Pectoral, Forearm, Median nerve stretch, Thoracic Extension and, when at home, prone back extensions.

Examples exercises are on the internet.

A three-monthly program with an exercise physiologist can help you develop a preventive exercise program.

Dr Mathew Brooks

Chiropractor and Life

by Design Practitioner

The practice of Chiropractic medicine addresses areas in the body where subluxation of nerve tissue interferes with nerve function and often the cellular health associated with chronic disease and deterioration of general health and wellbeing.

As a promoter of optimal health Mathew prescribes the Life By Design health plan for his patients, whereby he counsels and encourages healthy lifestyle choices to support the Chiropractic treatments he offers.

Mathew prescribes the following for his patients: n Eat a Paleo based diet n Remove grains n Consume essential Protein and fatty Acids – healthy fats, Omega 3 & 6 n Remove sugar n Earn your carbs – ie sweet potato and squash – (no Grains) n Move every joint through full extension every day n Lift weights n Fast exercise 1 x week – for cardio and fitness n Slow exercise – walk n Think with a clearly defined life purpose and goals n Exercise for at least 30 minutes-a-day n Do not consume alcohol regularly Event feedback from members on this was overwhelmingly positive. Many requested that another event was held next year with more information on health and wellness practices for the hygienist and oral health therapist. n

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LEFT: Chancellor Paul Jeans, Dr Melanie Hayes, Josie Murphy, Vice Chancellor Caroline McMillan ABOVE: The outstandingly committed Taylor Fouracre and Melanie Hayes

New hats for a Newy day DHAA President, Melanie Hayes, picks up her PhD at Newcastle University The DHAA would like to congratulate our President, Dr Melanie Hayes, who was officially awarded her PhD at the University of Newcastle Graduation Ceremony on July 4, 2014.

Mel’s thesis was on the topic of musculoskeletal disorder in the Australian dental hygiene profession, looking at the prevalence, correlates and use of loupes as an intervention. This is a topic

“ Mel has successfully published her research in a number of journals, and has been invited to present at conferences here, in Australia, and overseas. ”

that nearly all dental practitioners can relate to, and Mel has successfully published her research in a number of journals, and has been invited to present at conferences here, in Australia, and overseas.

At the same ceremony, The Bachelor of Oral Health 2013 graduating class also received their degrees.

During the School Prize Giving Ceremony Taylor Fouracre was awarded the DHAA Prize for Outstanding Commitment.

This is awarded annually to the student who displays dedication to the dental hygiene profession, whether it be in the form of clinical professionalism, volunteering or mentoring. Taylor was the successful recipient based on his excellent clinical skills and consistently high standard of work throughout the degree. Congratulations Taylor! n

We take a look at the Carevan Foundation Sun Smiles Program – aiming to give kids a brighter smile

Caring

for the

T

ooth decay has a profound impact on a child’s quality of life. Children experience dental pain and infection which impacts on their physical growth and cognitive development and lowers their selfesteem. Research shows that poor oral health and toothache can put children at a serious disadvantage in school. Oral health problems are a significant factor in school absences. Toothache restricts a child’s participation at school and impacts on their academic performance, leading to lower school grades.

The Carevan Sun Smiles program was launched in June 2012, out of a growing concern for the oral health of primary school children in the Hume region of Australia. The program is delivered free

kids

to all primary schools and community groups who participate.

The Carevan Sun Smiles Program is a multi-strategy, oral health promotion and decay prevention program; incorporating strategies from the Victorian Department of Health’s ‘Action plan for oral health promotion 2013-17’.

The program includes three key components which are integrated within the World Health Organisation’s Health Promoting Schools Framework: 1. Oral health promotion Oral health education and skills development, focused on nutrition and twice daily toothbrushing with Colgate fluoride toothpaste. The program engages children through oral health puppetry.

“ The Carevan Sun Smiles program was launched in June 2012, out of a growing concern for the oral health of primary school children in the Hume region of Australia.”

Puppets are a powerful tool in health education, particularly for children with low literacy. Puppets provide visual and kinetic (touch) learning experiences.

German research (Makuch & Reschke 2001) shows that oral health education involving puppets provides better learning outcomes. Oral health puppets are used for role play and to teach toothbrushing techniques.

2. Fluoride varnish Professionally applied bi-annual Colgate Duraphat 5% sodium fluoride varnish within the school setting.

The efficacy and safety of fluoride varnish has been supported by an Australian systematic review undertaken by the National Health and Medical Research Council in 2007. This

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Volunteers get a big kick out of helping on the Carevan Sun Smiles Program and judging by the happy faces it’s making a difference.

Sun Smiles volunteers needed now!

In 2012 Sun Smiles oral health promotion sessions were delivered to 270 Wodonga West primary school students and 60 Albury Midnight Basketball participants. 224 students received dental screening and fluoride varnish.

In 2013 Sun Smiles oral health promotion sessions were delivered to 689 primary school students at Wodonga West and Glenroy Primary Schools and 60 Albury Midnight Basketball participants. 597 students received a dental screening and fluoride varnish treatment.

In 2014 over 1,000 students are taking part in the Sun Smiles programs at Wodonga West and Kennington Primary Schools in Victoria and Glenroy and Lavington Public Schools in NSW. As the program grows we need to enlist dental volunteers to give more kids a brighter smile. If you are a registered hygienist, oral health therapist, therapist, dentist or dental assistant we would love to hear from you.

If you would like to find out more information about volunteering for an already established program or beginning a Sun Smiles program in your own community please email Cathryn Carboon at: cathcarboon@bigpond.com or phone: (03) 57214451 or 0458 580713.

review corroborates with international systematic reviews; including a Canadian review (Azarpazhooh & Main 2008) and the recent Cochrane Collaboration review (Marinho, Worthington, Walsh, Clarkson 2013) showing decay rates can be reduced by up to 37% in the primary dentition and up to 43 % in the permanent dentition, with fluoride varnish programs.

Fluoride varnish treatments also align with contemporary Australian clinical protocols, including the Caries Management System, developed at the University of Sydney (Evans & Dennison 2009). Together with international evidence based guidelines for the use of topical fluorides from Ireland (OHSRC 2008) and Scotland (SDCEP 2010).

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3. Dental screening and a referral pathway School based dental screening has been endorsed by the World Health Organisation (2003). Dental screening enables early detection and timely intervention of dental diseases, leading to substantial cost savings for families and communities. Dental screening plays an important role in understanding the oral health status of children participating in the Sun Smiles program.

Screening enables a thorough oral health

needs assessment to be carried out within each participating school, which assists in program development.

Dental screening, through the Sun Smiles program, also provides many children with their first encounter with a dental professional. Providing a positive dental experience in a safe, familiar setting, alleviates anxiety and fosters better rapport with the children.

Screening also provides the opportunity for children to receive individualised oral hygiene advice.

“ The Carevan Sun Smiles program was launched in June 2012, out of a growing concern for the oral health of primary school children in the Hume region of Australia.�

Children who have parental consent are provided with a dental screening prior to their fluoride varnish application.

The dental screening prioritises children who need further dental care, due to tooth decay, gum disease, orthodontic needs or developmental dental defects (ie: molar incisor hypomineralisation).

Dental referral letters are printed and posted by the primary school to parents, asking them to follow-up dental care for their child through their community health centre, university dental clinic or private dental practice. The new Australian Government Child Dental Benefits Schedule will allow many families who receive certain Government benefits – such as Family Tax Benefit Part A - to access up to $1,000 in dental care, capped over two years. n

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Graduate Oral Health Therapist, Yvonne Flaskas, shares her experience of working for the Poche Centre for Indigenous Health in the Central Tablelands of NSW

T

he Poche Centre for Indigenous Health (University of Sydney) was established in 2008. The centre was made possible by the extraordinary donation of philanthropist Mr Greg Poche and was set up to address and improve the health and wellbeing of Indigenous Australians living in rural and remote communities.

Since 2008, Poche Centres have been established at the University of Western Australia and Flinders University to tackle health and education inequalities experienced by Indigenous Australians.

The Sydney Poche Centre focuses heavily on addressing the poor oral health of rural and remote Aboriginal communities across NSW. In January of this year I was lucky enough to begin my employment with their Oral Health Service as a graduate Oral Health Therapist. I am based in the Central Tablelands of NSW in the remote communities of Boggabilla and Toomelah for one year.

Boggabilla and Toomelah are two small remote towns just south of the Queensland border and are

approximately seven hours inland.

The population of both towns is majority Aboriginal, with approximately 190 people living in Toomelah and 700 in Boggabilla.

From my experience so far, I have seen many children with untreated Early Childhood Caries (ECC) and many children with numerous carious lesions in the permanent dentition. I have also seen that many parents are simply unaware of the causes of tooth decay especially young mums who have not been informed about the effects of

19 putting their young children to bed with a bottle of milk.

Myself and another graduate Oral Health Therapist work together within the schools of these communities treating Aboriginal children. At one school, we work from our Oral Health Room – a dental clinic we have worked hard to set up using portable dental equipment. We also work from our mobile dental van which is fully equipped to treat children and adults.

Working with children and families from these communities has been an incredible experience. There is a great need not only for dental treatment within these communities but also oral health promotion and education.

It is can be overwhelming sometimes to treat children within these

“ Working with children and families from these communities has been an incredible experience. There is a great need not only for dental treatment within these communities but also oral health promotion and education.� communities especially when complex dental treatment is required for children who have not seen a dentist before.

However when I teach children to brush their teeth for the first time, or educate young families on the causes of tooth decay or complete a course of treatment for a child who has never been to the dentist before, I am completely overwhelmed with pride for not only my work as a clinician but my profession as an Oral Health Therapist. n

Joanna Mohammadi takes an informative look at the advantages of air polishing

Definitive proof of the amazing results that can be achieved with air polishing

I

sn’t it annoying when you just can’t get that last bit of interproximal staining? Or when the droning of the bristle brush on a slow speed just can’t remove that tenacious tea stain?

For those hygienists who have yet to experience using an air polisher, your life is about to change! Not only is the air polisher more effective at removing staining, it saves significantly on the time it takes to complete your hygiene appointment. The EMS Air-Flow delivers a controlled stream of fine powder particles to the tooth surface through a water spray and compressed air.

Having worked in a number of dental practices, I have come across a variety of air polishers – some good, some bad. My favourite is the one I am currently using, the EMS Air-Flow Handy.

It’s easy to assemble, ergonomic, simple to maintain plus it connects neatly to a high-speed hand-piece connection.

Alternatively, you can purchase a stand-

alone air polishing device which contains the two air polishers or an air polisher and EMS piezo scaler.

Working solo as a hygienist there are a few little tips to make using the air polisher easier.

Firstly, apply Vaseline to protect the patient’s lips. Then use cotton rolls, one in each quadrant, to retract the lip away.

Use high-speed suction to catch as much of the polishing spray as possible.

However, this definitely takes practice.

From a patient perspective the air polisher can feel quite strange as you feel powder, water, air coupled with a slightly salty, bicarb-like flavour. To me it feels as though your teeth are being cleaned with a pressure cleaner, but when you run your tongue across your teeth afterwards, they feel fantastic!

Other brands of air polisher that I have used have felt harsh on the gums. The EMS Prophy powder is more gentle on the soft tissues without compromising

on effectiveness of stain removal. There are a variety of classic EMS Prophy Jet powders including; mint; lemon; tropical; cassis; and cherry. Different grades include powder soft, powder classic comfort and powder plus.

The air polisher is also handy for: n Plaque removal prior the placement of fissure sealants. n Plaque and stain removal in orthodontic patients – especially when their arch wires are still in! n Stain removal around fixed retainers. n Tenacious interproximal staining.

EMS also offer a new product, the Perio-Flow which claims to remove biofilm build up in periodontal pockets.

There is a specifically designed nozzle to be used on the EMS Perio-Flow as well as specialised perio powder. I am yet to try this product.

Although this should be done routinely before commencing any procedure, you should always ensure that your patient

21

“ It feels as though your teeth are being cleaned with a pressure cleaner, but when you run your tongue across your teeth afterwards, they feel fantastic!” wears approved safety glasses and that you, as the hygienist, are wearing proper PPE. It is also important to note that air polishers are contraindicated for any patient who has a respiratory issue.

As with all types of dental equipment, proper cleaning and maintenance of the EMS air polisher is essential. Please follow full instructions as directed by your EMS product representative.

All in all, I have found the EMS AIRFLOW an absolute winner amongst patients, it allows for quicker and more efficient stain and plaque removal. I also find by the patient’s next 6/12 recall appointment, there is less staining than more traditional stain removal techniques.

My patients love the way their mouth feels after they have had the air polisher used on their teeth. I wouldn’t go back! n

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

NATION STATE Queensland

WEBSITE

dentalhygienist.com.au

>

CONTACT

Email Queensland

>

“ The event promoted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care with Podiatrists, Endocrinologists, Periodontists and Diabetes Educators presenting current research related to diabetes.”

DHAAQ’s 2014 ‘Teeth to Toes’ Regional Roadshow was a great success, visiting Rockhampton and Hervey Bay on the 25-26 of July, then Townsville and Cairns on the 1-2 August.

The 2014 RHCE2 round five Rural Grant in combination with Oral B sponsorship funded our regionally touring CPD event. The event promoted the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care with Podiatrists, Endocrinologists, Periodontists and Diabetes Educators presenting current research related to diabetes.

Diabetes is the fastest growing chronic disease which can affect the entire body. Incorporating local practitioners as presenters for this event ensured delegates broadened professional networks with the intention of offering referral opportunities if patients require it.

DHAAQ would like to recognise our National Councilor – Karen Toms for her persistent energy in organising this event – 26 presenters over four days in four regional locations. This was our largest CPD event to date and this would not have been possible without Karen’s efforts.

Our annual Hygiene

It’s smiles all round for the Queensland crew on their ‘Teeth to Toes’ Regional Roadshow.

Horizons full day continuing professional development event will be held at the Novotel Brisbane on the 20th of September. We thank Colgate for the gold sponsorship of this event and appreciate their continued support of our association members’ continuing professional development.

DHAAQ has secured four fantastic guest speakers, focusing on the theme of Special Needs Dentistry. Dr Mark Gussy, PhD, Med. Is the Head Professor of Oral Health in Dentistry and Oral Health at the La Trobe Rural Health School, La Trobe University.

Dr Helen Marchant BDS (Birmingham), MSc (London)

FRACDS (SND) is a Specialist in Special Needs Dentistry, Royal Dental Hospital Melbourne & Lecturer at University of Melbourne. Dr Daniel Ford BDSc (Hons); BSc (Hons); MDSc (Paed); FRACDS is a registered specialist in Paediatric Dentistry practicing in the Brisbane and Toowoomba areas.

Ms Natasha Atkinson is a Conjoint Fellow at the School of Health Sciences, Faculty

23

South Australia WEBSITE

dhaasa.asn.au

>

CONTACT

Email South Australia

of Health and Medicine, University of Newcastle.

Ms Atkinson is a practicing Senior Occupational Therapist at the Calvary Mater Newcastle.

Registration for this event will close on the 14 September so please visit our website (www. dentalhygienist.com.au) for further details.

Debbie Holliday DHAA QLD President

>

At our ever successful June Dinner Meeting Alex Du Bois gave an engaging presentation on “Dental Implants and Managing Peri-Implantitis”. We were excited to see this event booked out within two weeks of the registrations opening and next year we are looking into a larger function room to cater for increased demand.

The year has brought the re-accreditation of the Advanced Diploma of Oral Health at TAFE SA and the beginnings of the reaccreditation of the Bachelor of Oral Health program at Adelaide University.

Next on the calendar for SA is the full-day CPD day to be held at the Convention Centre in September.

The day includes five-hours of scientific CPD and the speakers are Dr Janet Wallace presenting on “Aged care”, Dr Danny Ho presenting “I have

braces!”, Dr Alan Broughton presenting on “Dangers of ‘Dental Vacations”, Margie Steffens presenting “Selfperceived discrimination in an aboriginal youth group with regard to access to dental care” and Joy Gailer presenting “An update on pharmacology”.

We will be hosting the next National Council Meeting in conjunction with our CPD day and I look forward to seeing my colleagues from all over Australia and discussing the future of the DHAA. Our joint event with ADOHTA at The Lion Hotel will have Dr Andre Bendyk presenting.

The final event of the year is the annual breakfast AGM. This is always a nice way to end the end year catching up with friends and colleagues before the Christmas break.

Tracey Herman South Australian President

“ The year has brought the re-accreditation of the Advanced Diploma of Oral Health at TAFE SA and the beginnings of the reaccreditation of the Bachelor of Oral Health program at Adelaide University.”

DHAAVB amass at the Mallee Machinery Field Days in Speed

Victoria

WEBSITE

dhaavb.com.au

>

CONTACT

0418 336 119

“ I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with an amazing bunch of volunteer dentists, dental assistants and students.”

The last couple of months have been a very busy time for DHAAVB with the planning and delivery of CPD activities. On 30 July we hosted a dinner meeting at Di Mattina’s in Carlton, which was very well attended. Our speakers for the evening were Dr Adam Rosenberg (Periodontist) and Ms Meloshini Naicker (Dental Hygienist). Adam and Melosh presented on ‘The role of the dental hygienist in implant treatment’. They covered everything from assessing patients and the site for implant placement to longterm maintenance of implant patients and managing periimplantitis.

On 23 August we held a full-day CPD event at the Melbourne Exhibition and Convention Centre, as part of the ADAVB Biennial Convention. Once again we were delighted with the turnout – we even had to squeeze a few extra chairs in. The

theme of the convention was ‘Evolution and Revolution in Dentistry’. We had an exciting and varied range of speakers, who made us reflect on our clinical practices and record keeping protocols.

Our CPD team are working on our next event, which is scheduled for Saturday 18 October at Fenix, Richmond.

On Saturday 18 October at Fenix, Richmond Members we are co-hosting a full-day event with ADOHTA Vic. Members should receive their invitation via email, or you can download a registration form from the DHAAVB website.

National Councilor, Stella Cristini, recently volunteered her time and skills in Long Tan, Vietnam. She found it a rewarding and enriching experience and would encourage you to support this valuable oral health program.

In my role with the Royal Flying Doctor Service

as Program Manager of Mobile Dental Care, I am very fortunate to have the opportunity to work with an amazing bunch of volunteer dentists, dental assistants and students. We recently visited the Mallee Machinery Field Days in Speed and conducted oral health riskassessments and mouth checks. RFDS also won the ‘best small site’ award for the second consecutive year. Our RFDS volunteers for this event included dentists, La Trobe University BDS students and University of Melbourne BOH students.

RFDS Victoria was so happy with how things operated in Speed that we’re planning to do the whole thing again at The Elmore Field Days in October. If this becomes a regular activity, maybe some of our members would like to get involved!!!

Roisin McGrath DHAAVB President

25 The committee welcome their incoming President and say farewell to the outgoing one...

Western Australia WEBSITE

dhaawa.com

>

CONTACT

0449 910 455

“ We were lucky to be shown anatomical specimens in the laboratory, and everyone had a great time learning from two highly regarded local Professors.”

It has been a very busy few years for the WA committee. We have had many challenges with long-term vacant committee positions. In spite of this we have been rewarded with some exceptional CPD events, and importantly have forged some special friendships along the way.

On 18 July, the Local Analgesia Update was presented by W/Professor March Tennant and E/ Professor John McGeachie.

It will be repeated on 6 February, 2015 due to requests from members who missed out.

We were lucky to be shown anatomical specimens in the laboratory, and everyone had a great time learning from two highly regarded local Professors.

Our AGM with a self care focus of continuing education for ourselves, the oral health practitioners on the Wellness Day - August 24 The key sponsor was Philips Sonicare Zoom, represented by Martina Forsyth, who brought along the door prize. – the black Sonicare DiamondClean.

Many thanks must also go to the allied healthcare practitioners including Dr Matthew Brooks, Richelle Baker, Daniel Clarke and Brett

committee to an inspirational and exciting term – I am looking forward to working closely with you all.

Natasha Hunt Incoming WA President

Limpus. They taught us about how to take care of our health especially our lower back, neck and shoulder areas, and the last minute replacement Theresa Kauffmann.

And the organising committee chaired by Simone Mayne with helping hands from Cherie Rayner, and Stefanie Pearce.

I am excited to continue to serve as the incoming Branch President, and look forward to meeting more of our members at future events locally and nationally.

I would like to thank all past committee members and to warmly welcome the new

Farewell message from the outgoing President I would like to say to the members from WA; “I am honoured to have been given a unique opportunity to serve as your President for nearly two years. We had fun, we had joy and challenges, but all in all we have become a stronger branch with support from all members and the committee volunteering their energy and time.

The spirit of caring and sharing will continue and I hope it will be contagious to those who have attended our recent continuing education events. I will now be acting as the mentor for the incoming committee for up to 12 months - I am not physically with you but I will always support you.

Farewell Perth – for now!

Emily See Outgoing WA President

The 2014 CPD Events calendar. Full details at www.dhaainfo/events MONTH Date/TIME

EVENT

VENUE

SEP 2014

9 September 8:00-5:00

Periodontal Instrumentation

Melbourne Oral Health Training Education Centre (MOHTEC), 723 Swanston Street Carlton VIC 3053

9 September 7:00

Orthoclinic: Molar Extraction Techniques & Single Tooth Implant Protocols

Keelty Room, Novotel Canberra, 65 Northbourne Ave

20 September

DHAAQ Hygiene Horizons

Novotel, Brisbane.

24 September 6:30-8:30

ADA NSW Recent Graduates Lecture

Pullman Hyde Park, 36 College Street Sydney NSW

25-27 September

ADOHTA Cutting Edge Oral Health

Panthers Entertainment Complex, Port Macquarie

26 September 9:00-5:00

Implementing Evidence Based Dentistry in Practice

Centre for Professional Development Lithgow Street St Leonards, NSW

3 October 9-4:30

Endodontics and Prosthodontics, the Good, the Bad and the Ugly

ANU Arts Centre, University Drive

15 October 9:00-5:00

The Paediatric Dentition

Centre for Professional Development Lithgow Street St Leonards, NSW

17 October 8:30-5:00

Temporomandibular Disorders

The Royce 379 St Kilda Road, Melbourne VIC

17 October 8:30-5:00

Medical Emergencies in the Dental Practice

ADAVB Meeting Rooms Level 3, 10 Yarra Street South Yarra

17 October 8:45-5:00

Complications in Implant Dentistry Prevention & Management

UQ Oral Health Centre 288 Herston Road, Herston

17 October 8:30-5:00

Anxiety Relief in Dentistry

Centre for Professional Development, Lithgow Street St Leonards NSW

18 October 8:30-5:00

Working Posture Workshop

Rydges Sydney Central, 28 Albion Street, Surry Hills NSW 2010

18 October

DHAAVB CPD Event

TBA

18 October

Professional Development Day for ADOHTA WA & DHAA WA

University Club

20 October 8:30-4:00

Sleep Apnoea and Snoring: What You Need To Know

University of Sydney Business School (CBD Campus), Level 17, 133 Castlereagh Street, Sydney NSW 2000

25 October 9:00-12:00

Management and Prevention of a Lawsuit, Legal Challenge or Complaint

Moore Park Inn, Armidale, NSW

28 October 5:45-8:30

Deciduous Pulpotomies - Pulp Fact or Pulp Fiction

Macbeth Lecture Theatre G31, Badger Building, North Terrace Campus, Adelaide

28 October 7:00

Orthoclinic: Effective Tips for Success in Endodontics

Keelty Room, Novotel Canberra, 65 Northbourne Ave

31 October

Paedodontics Update

Stamford Plaza Brisbane

1 November 8:45-5

CPDent: Saturday Afternoons, Teeth and the Local Pharmacy

University of Adelaide, North Terrace Campus

12-14 November

Melbourne Dental School: Orthodontics for Dental Therapists and Hygienists

Melbourne Dental School, Carlton

13-15 November

DHAA National Symposium

National Convention Centre, Canberra

22-23 November 9:00-5:00

TAFE SA: Panoramic Radiography

TAFE SA, Gilles Plains

OCT 2014

NOV 2014

MONTH Date/TIME

DEC 2014

EVENT

VENUE

23 November 6:30

Adjunctive Periodontal Treatment and Limitation of Periodontal Treatment

Lion Hotel, 161 Melbourne St, North Adelaide

26 November 6:00

ASP: Diagnosis and Treatment of Periodontal Ridges on Swanston Disease by Dental Professionals in Victoria

26-28 November

ASSCID - Gerodontics and special needs an international perspective - 5th Walkabout Conference

Quality Hotel NOAH’S On the Beach, Newcastle.

Cnr Shortland Esplanade and Zaara Street Newcastle, NSW, 2300

26 November 6:15-8:30

CPDent: Update on Allergic Drug Reactions and Common Skin Conditions

Macbeth Lecture Theatre, Badger Building, University of Adelaide

29 November

DHAAVB CPD Event: AGM

Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club

2 December 7:00

Sex, Drugs and Oral Cancer: A Potential Change in the Aetiology of Oral Cancer and the Role of the Dentist in it’s Early Recognition

Keelty Room, Novotel Canberra, 65 Northbourne Ave

7 December

TBA

National Wine Centre, Cnr North Terrace and Hackney Rd, Adelaide

Key to the state colours n ACT

n New South Wales

n Queensland

n South Australia

n Tasmania

n Victoria

n Western Australia

Please email us if you have an event that you want to be included in the calendar

DHAA NATIONAL SYMPOSIUM

EARLY BIRD PRICE EXTENSION! The National Symposium is just around the corner and promises to be the event of the year. If you have already booked then we’ll see you in November but for those of you that haven’t we have extended the early bird pricing until Friday 26 September. Don’t miss out!

Visit the DHAA website for details on how to book.

Image reproduced courtesy of Steve Keogh

CANBERRA | 13-15 November 2014

DHAA Inc.