The Bulletin - Issue 42 Mar / Apr 2017

Issue 42 March-April 2017

The official newsletter of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia Ltd

INTERVIEW Prof. Eric Reynolds

Making history We unearth the facts about his research team’s advances in the battle to beat periodontitis

Wake Up To Work Coping with the transition from new graduate into the workplace

Turn your back on pain Managing your occupational health to work better for longer

STATE ROUND-UP Find out what CPD events are coming your way

Award Winning Pikst Award Winning Piksters Focus Tip Brushes

2

TM

In response In response to overwhelming requests, to overwhelming reque now in a single brush pa now available in a single available brush pack.

Piksters

Piksters Piksters

TM

TM

TM

Reverse Focus Tip Brush Forward Tip Bru Forward Focus Tip Brush Focus NEW

NEW

Forward Focus brush cleans efficiently around orthodontic brackets and wires on anterior teeth.

Forward Focus brush cleans efficiently around orthodontic brackets and wires on anterior teeth.

The Forward Focus The Forward Focus brush is great at brush is great at reducing pericorinitis. reducing pericorinitis.

It has the ideal angle It has the ideal angle and bristle tip to get and bristle tip to get under the operculum. under the operculum.

Why useWhy chemicals when use properchemicals mechanical when proper mechanical plaque control plaque works so well? control works so well?

Superb for lingual plaque reduction and prevention of calculus in all patients.

Particularly useful under orthodontic and periodontal wire splints.

Forward Focus removes acidic plaque from the occlusal fissure opening to reduce the probability of future caries.

Especially useful during the eruptive phase.

Forward Focus removes acidic plaque from the ... and for cleaning the palatal of upper occlusal fissure openingincisors. to reduce the probability of future caries.

Especially useful during the eruptive phase.

The chisel tip bristles in a Forward Focus penetrate furcations and other periodontal/ peri implant defects.

The chisel tip bristles in a Forward Focus penetrate furcations and other periodontal/ peri implant defects.

Excellent for cleaning the distal of the last molar. Very useful when there is a residual pocket from wisdom tooth removal.

$34.20 $34.20

$34.20

Box of Box 10 of 10 EPPCFF-BX10 EPPCRF-BX10

Box of 10 EPPCFF-BX10

$3.08

$3.08

$3.08

Refill Heads (3 heads) EPPCFFRH Refill Heads (3 heads) EPPCRFRH

Refill Heads (3 heads) EPPCFFRH

Reverse &Brushes Forward Focus Tip Br Reverse & Forward Focus Tip are also part of the NEWNEW Piksters Connect Piksters System. TOOTHBRUSH Connect All brush heads System. and handles HEAD are interchangeable.

SIZE CHART our now have the option Your Y patients nowpatients have the option (ALL SOFT BRISTLES) of a comfortable handle of a comfortable extended handle Piksters Connectextended (PC) size number Head Size COMING SOON for their interdental brush which is for their interdental brush which is XX Small PC-10 also for the arthritic and those also ideal for theideal arthritic and those X Small limited dexterity. with with limited dexterity.

PC-20 PC-30

Small

The of any Connect brush, The head of anyhead Connect brush, PC-40 Small-Med Forward eg.Focus Reverse Focus and eg. Reverse and Forward PC-50 simply ‘twists’Medium off to accept FocusFocus simply ‘twists’ off to accept a Piksters Brush or a Piksters Interdental Brush or Interdental PC-60 Large any any other brushother head within thebrush head within the AVAILABLE NOW TW 1 of 8 IST & SWA P Connect cleaner, Connect System. eg. tongueSystem. cleaner, PC-20TT eg. Xtongue Small PIKSTERS (Taper Tip) and 8 different stainstain remover and 8remover different CONNECT PC-30TT sizes.

SYSTEM toothbrush head toothbrush head sizes.

Small (Taper Tip) HANDLES

Freecall: 1-800-PIKSTERS Email: info@piksters.com (1-800-74578377) Piksters is a 100% Australian www.piksters.com www.piksters.com owned company.

Web: www.piksters.com

Piksters Piksters TM

TM

TM

TM

Fre

We

03 3

A time for personal reflection As I begin my last term as your DHAA President, I would like to take time to reflect on leadership in our profession.

I write this report as I fly to Boston, to attend the Senior Dental Leadership (SDL) Program. This would not have been possible without the generous support of the Global Children’s Dental Fund, the University of Melbourne and the DHAA Ltd. I am looking forward to engaging with leaders from all over the globe, and learning about frameworks for change and innovation, building effective teams, developing networks, sustainability and becoming globally engaged. Most importantly, I look forward to sharing what I have learnt with the DHAA leaders in each of the states and territories, so that we can all be empowered to lead your association positively into the future.

Recently I have been asked to give a few talks on the ‘future of dental hygiene’ at a couple of upcoming CPD events. Without giving away the entire plotline, I will talk about the need for leaders that encourage and help develop the next generation of leaders. As an association we have frameworks which promote this principle, including many opportunities for members to lead in National and State roles, as well as providing annual leadership training for these integral volunteers.

On my travels I will be visiting our friends at the American Dental Hygienists Association (ADHA), to understand how dental hygiene in the US has developed to be a strong, well-recognised profession. We can learn from their successes, as well as exploring avenues for collaboration. Following this I will attend the International Dental Hygiene Educators Forum, American Dental Education Association conference and the International Association of Dental Research conference. I look forward to sharing my findings, and how our profession can continue to strengthen and be empowered, in upcoming editions of the Bulletin.

I am excited about my final term. My philosophy is to leave the association in a better place than when I was handed the reigns. I believe that together, with all the amazing Directors, Chairs and other volunteers, we will achieve this goal. We have developed a strong leadership team, and are working not only to provide even more support and benefits to our members, but also improving the oral health of all Australians through our collaborations and involvement in health promoting activities.

Keep your eye out for some very exciting announcements in the not too distant future!

Mel Hayes DHAA National President

Contents 03 President’s Message Our travelling leader has exciting news in the pipeline!

04 News Including a report on a successful joint event in Byron Bay; a student award in WA and we review the new CareDent Picnix Interdental Brushes.

06 Ask DHAA We answer you questions.

08 COVER STORY Interview: Professor Eric Reynolds The Bulletin discuss the recent discovery of a vaccine for periodontitis with the man who lead the Melbourne research team.

12 Wake Up To Work Managing the transition from uni to the workplace

14 Turn Your Back On Pain Work better for longer by managing your occupational health.

16 Old Drugs Don’t Work Find out when it’s OK to use out-of-date medicines.

18 State of the Nation What’s happening near you.

26 Event Planner Keep your diaries current.

National Executive PRESIDENT Mel Hayes CONTACT

VICE PRESIDENT Kathryn Novak CONTACT

TREASURER Cheryl Day CONTACT

ADMINISTRATING & EVENTS OFFICER Patricia Chan CONTACT

IT REP Josh Galpin 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

4

NEW

OFFER ENDS APRIL 30

Size 0 .40mm Size 0 .40mm 0 Size

Picnix Display Stand

.40mm

Size1 .45mm Size1 .45mm Size1 .45mm

Size 2 .50mm Size 2 .50mm 2 Size .50mm

Size 0 Size3 .40mm .60mm Size3 .60mm Size3 .60mm

Size1 .45mm

Size 2 .50mm

Size 0 Size 2 Size1 Siz .40mm Size 4 .45mmSize5 .50mm Size 6 .60 Size 4 Size 0 Size 6 Size 2 Size5 Size7 Size1 Size3 .70mm .80mm .90mm .70mm .80mm .90mm 1.1mm Size 4 .40mm Size5 .45mm Size 6 .50mm Size7 .60mm .70mm 4 .80mm .90mm 6 1.1mm Size Size Size5 Size7 .70mm

.80mm

Size 4 .70mm

Size5 .80mm

.90mm

1.1mm

4 6 Size5 Siz Size 0 Size Size 2 Size Size1 Size3 .70mm .45mm .80mm .50mm .90mm .60mm 1.1 Size 6.40mm Size7 .90mm

Size 0 .40mm

Size 4 .70mm

1.1mm

Size 4 Size 6 Size5 Size7 .70mm .80mm Size 2 .90mmSize3 1.1mm Size1 .45mm .50mm .60mm

Size5 .80mm

Size 6 .90mm

Size7 1.1mm

Introductory Price

199*

$

N AVAILOW IN SIZABLE ES

As low as 21 cents per brush

0-7

SAVE

$

99

*Display Stand contains 48 retail bags (6 bags (20 brushes per bag) per size 0-7) All prices include GST

Professional box (50) $14.30

Retail box (6 bags x 20) $37.29

29 cents per brush

31 cents per brush

Australian Design • Ergonomically shaped / easy to roll handle • Non-slip grip Available in 8 sizes • Resealable retail bag of 20 • Professional box of 50 Brush-head covers convert to extendible handle

Call us on 1800 422 227 to request a trial pack NOW!

PRODUCT

5

REVIEW Joanna Mohammadi takes a look at the new CareDent Picnix Interdental Brushes Size3 .60mm

Big CPD Success

ze3 0mm Size7 1.1mm

ze7 1mm

Impressive attendance for joint NSW and Qld event WITH A SUNNY, SUMMER VIBE, NSW’s Speakers for the day included; Libby iconic Byron Bay was the back drop for Dann - a dental hygienist with special the joint NSW and QLD Full Day Seminar interest in clinical applications of dental in January. ergonomics; Dr Louis Chan - who gave a Over 100 delegates travelled from presentation on TMJ & airways; Professor near and far to the iconic surf location to Laurie Walsh –presenting on sugar and attend the event . sugar alternatives; and “ M any people ’The Whole Body Dr Steven Lin –giving a chose to make a presentation on practical Effect’ presentation took place at the prestigious weekend of the changes for our gut and Elements of Byron Bay overall health. event, and who Resort which created During the intervals, could blame them...” delegates had the the perfect balance of leisure and learning. opportunity to visit the Many people chose to make a weekend trade show which hosted Colgate, EMS, of the event, and who could blame them Mips, GC, Erskine Dental and GSK. with such a beautiful tranquil setting.

To round off the day, delegates were As the title suggests, the theme of the invited to attend a cocktail evening of day was centred around an integrated drinks and finger food while mingling health approach, focusing on the with familiar and new faces. influences that our overall systemic Special thanks to Colgate and EMS for health has on our mouths, and vice-versa. their platinum sponsorship. n

DHAA Curtin University Award Congratulations to Ms Hozai Nazifa after being awarded the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia (WA) Inc Prize for the student demonstrating the most improved performance throughout the Oral Health Therapy course at Curtin University.

The university thanked the DHAA for the generous support provided over the years to the Curtin Oral Health Therapy Program. Particular mention went Rhonda Kremmer for giving her time and contribution to the awards night.

THE BRIGHT LIGHTS and beautiful displays in the exhibition hall at the DHAA Hobart Symposium was alluring. Each stand had friendly faces, eager to showcase their products.

I was attracted to the CareDent stand and their wide range of toothbrushes, floss, and interdental brushes was amazing.

Their prices are competitive too.

Founded in 1992, CareDent is an Australian-based company, and a leading manufacturer of an extensive range of essential and unique oral health care products.

For over 25 years they have distributed through a worldwide network of supermarkets, pharmacies, and dental professionals.

One product that caught my eye was the new CareDent Picnix Interdental Brushes.

These interdental brushes were similar in brush head size to other companies, but the handles on the Picnix were a little thicker with a grippy silicone facing making them very easy to use.

The variety of brush sizes were identified through different coloured handles. The Picnix sample I received had a variety of brush sizes, the metal wire was easy to bend especially for accessing posterior teeth.

I did find the small sized (0) interdental brushes did bend out of shape when used in tight gaps but overall I enjoyed the product and would happily recommend this product to my patients.

Picnix brushes will be available at selected dental practices and online at www.caredent.com.au

6

Ask DHAA...

Your opportunity to ask the questions, check the rules and share your knowledge Dear DHAA... I have recently graduated from the ADOH in SA. I have a trial coming up at an orthodontist, and at the interview they asked if I would be willing to expand my scope and learn how to use a high speed handpiece for inter-proximal reduction. Are you aware of any accredited courses that would allow me to do that?

Currently in Australia DH/ OHT/DT are not trained to remove permanent tooth structure as a part of their orthodontic training. There are no add on courses in this currently.

Currently this is not in your scope and we would encourage you to discuss this with the orthodontist as they may not be aware of the current scope of DH/DT/OHT. Dear DHAA... My Dentist has taught me to perform a procedure that he’s accredited for. Can I do it?

No, for a dental hygienist, dental therapist or oral health therapist the only way to increase your scope is to do further study either at a territory level or an AHPRA approved add on course.

As oral health professionals we do not have the option

of ‘on the job training’. You will need to have proof that you have been trained to the required standard as determined by the dental board and AHPRA. Dear DHAA... My Dentist asked me to glue braces – it went wrong. Can I be held accountable?

Yes, as the practitioner that has performed the treatment you are accountable. However, we all make mistakes, it is how we deal with them that counts.

To start with you should identify the error and bring it to the attention of your dentist so that it can be rectified promptly.

Once the error has been corrected and the patients treatment is back on track it is wise to sit down with your dentist to identify what went wrong and whether or not it is due to competency.

Next you need to ask yourself ‘have I been formally trained in this procedure and am I competent?’ If you answer no to either of these we encourage you to stop doing this procedure immediately as you are working outside of your scope of practice.

Dear DHAA... I have recently graduated but want to get better qualified so that I can be more challenged at work.

How can I do this?

Obviously this depends on your current qualifications and what you class as ‘more challenging work’.

If it’s clinical skills you want then try looking at further education such as the therapy/ hygiene competent for single qualified practitioners.

Therapists now have the option of adult scope courses which you may feel is the challenge for you.

Ultimately if you want the broadest scope then you would be looking at dentistry, which is always an option, and with your previous experience you would already be on step ahead of the pack.

If you are looking for a challenge outside of your clinic then you have the option of volunteering with associations. This will increase your personal skills as well as leadership and business skills.

There are also roles in oral health promotion, company sales representatives and academia waiting for hygienists to jump into.

As a starter, I would encourage you to figure out

what it is you love about your job. Then find someone currently in the role you would like to do, ask them how they got there and follow in their footsteps. Whatever path you choose we wish you good luck!

Dear DHAA... I am qualified for child scope but I’m being asked to work on more and more adults when we’re busy.

I want to explain this to my boss but how can I do this without losing my job?

Whatever you are doing, if you are working outside of your scope the main risk is the potential of losing your registration. If a complaint was made you could be stopped from practicing as a therapist.

Talk to your dentist and remind them that it may be your registration on the line, but that it also has the potential to affect the reputation of the practice itself.

A good employer will understand the gravity of the situation and stop asking. If not, you should consider if this is sort of environment you should be working in.

If you are interested in working on adults then there are several universities that offer further study. Try talking to your employer as they may

7 YOUR CHANCE TO GET SOMETHING OFF OF YOUR CHEST

There is just no excuse for working outside your scope! be happy to assist and support you as it is clearly needed in your practice.

Dear DHAA... Nitrous Oxide and Penthrox Inhaler sedation. Can I do it?

No you cannot. In Australia dentists and dental specialists are the only dental practitioners that are allowed to administer these drugs in a dental setting.

Without formal training – which is not offered to dental hygienists, dental therapists or oral health therapists as standard – you cannot administer these drugs.

You also cannot work solo when these drugs have been administered as you have not had the training to care for the patient.

Not only is this not in our scope of practice as hygienists but our profession is not registered to be able to administer such drugs.

In the same way that you can’t write a script, this is a big no-no. You could get into a lot of trouble if you choose to administer these, or any, drugs illegally.

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

T

he dental profession has always had continuing professional development but it has boomed since AHPRA instated the mandatory minimum of 60 hours every three years. We now have thousands of professionals all requiring this continual study, but can we say that we’re all doing it for the same reasons?

The AHPRA CPD standard does not state why they, along with the dental board, believe this to be a necessity for registration, but let’s face, it’s obvious.

Things change quickly in our industry and without mandatory CPD it would be all too easy to sit back and lose touch.

However, I want to be the best practitioner that I can be. I will do all the CPD that interests me, regardless of my hours, and I have always thought my comrades were the same. That was until AHPRA changed the CPD time period and we had six months which didn’t sit in a given CPD period.

Suddenly I heard others excitement about getting ‘six months off’. I was dumb-founded.

Surely as a professional there is no such thing as ‘time off’, regardless of the bureaucrats changing time periods.

There can be no time period on learning.

Our attitude towards our continued learning reflects on us as professionals and how other professionals see us.

Stop counting the hours and embrace the privileged position you are in. There are people visiting you on a daily basis that expect you to be up to date with the latest training – don’t let them down.

The question that often gets asked is: “What am I getting from this CPD event?” Well, the idea of CPD is to increase our knowledge on

RANT! the skills we already have. The only time we will gain greater scope or skills from a CPD course is when we do an AHPRA approved add-on course, such as in-house whitening, extra-oral radiography or advanced orthodontics.

Simply attending a manufacturers course in a skill you have not already previously gained at your educational facility does not give you that additional scope. If you subsequently choose to practice this new skill you will be working outside of your scope.

It was recently mentioned on DHAA social media about Invisalign fixtures being placed by DH/OHT/DT. Currently in Australia there are no educational facilities teaching their placement and there are no AHPRA approved courses to increase scope in this area. So, if you are placing fixtures you are working outside of your scope of practice. No matter how easy you believe the procedure to be.

As professionals we do not have ‘on the job’ training our skills come from what we have learnt at our educational facilities.

So what are you getting from CPD? You are getting the chance to broaden your knowledge on skills you already have, networking with like minded professionals and just generally getting to be a better version of your professional self. The words ‘I’m just getting my hours up’ should never pass your lips again. It devalues you and the hard work other professionals have put in.

Want to do more? Consider doing further study and becoming a dentist!

Rant! Is supplied by an independent contributor and is not an expression of the view of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia.

8

A cure for periodontitis Fact or fiction?

Professor Emeritus Eric Reynolds, the leader of the Melbourne University research team that have found a vaccine for periodontitis, tells us the truth behind the discovery

PORTRAITS: JEFF CROW / sportlibrary.com.au

R

ecent reports on the discovery of a potential vaccine for periodontitis have instigated a massive response from dental professionals around the globe. Professor Eric Reynolds has been leading the Melbourne-based research team for over fifteen years and the DHAA Bulletin caught up with him to get the real facts behind the hype.

“There is a spectrum of inflammatory diseases of the gums, the most common being gingivitis. The majority of people with periodontal disease have gingivitis and this is non-specific and reversible, meaning that hygienists and oral health therapists can treat patients with gingivitis,” explains Professor Reynolds.

If gingivitis is left untreated – as it often is – it can progress into more severe forms of disease which destroy the tooth’s supporting tissues including the bone. The common form of this destructive disease is called chronic periodontitis. This is where the disease becomes much harder to treat.

Currently, this disease is treated by scaling and root debridement, and in some cases, periodontists may even perform surgery. While this is mostly effective there are around 10% of cases that will have refractory periodontitis, or recurrence of the disease even while on a professional maintenance program.

Once severe periodontitis has taken hold it is impossible to reverse, and very difficult to stabilise in some people. If left untreated the patient’s own immune system destroys the bone supporting the tooth. “Within a few years a sufferer can start to lose their teeth which is very stressful,” says Professor Reynolds Not only is it stressful but also the risk of ongoing disease is quite alarming.

“In addition, the pathogens can then cross into the blood stream and contribute to cardiovascular conditions, certain cancers, chronic inflammatory disease and even dementia.” >

Professor Eric Reynolds AO and the periodontitis vaccine team are working in laboratories located in the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne and the University of Melbourne’s Bio21 Institute.

9

“ The majority of people with periodontal disease have gingivitis and this is nonspecific and reversible, meaning that hygienists and oral health therapists can treat patients with gingivitis.�

Professor Eric Reynolds

10

Professor Reynolds explains that the vaccine has been developed to help those patients who do not respond to the normal therapy. Most vaccines are prophylactic, or preventative, meaning that they stimulate the immune response to fight a future infection.

The proposed vaccine is known as a therapeutic vaccine, which is used to switch the immune system from a destructive response to a protective one to stop disease progression.

If successful in human clinical trials, the vaccine will target unresponsive patients with moderate to severe periodontitis, which is approximately 10-15% of cases.

What has been discovered?

“We discovered that the bacterium, Porphyromonas gingivalis (Pg) and related species in subgingival plaque, were dysregulating the immune system, that is stimulating it to destroy the tissue supporting the tooth in an effort to remove the pathogenic plaque,” explains Professor Reynolds.

“The vaccine was tested on animals that

already had severe forms of the disease.

Results showed that it (the vaccine) targets these specific bacteria and switches the immune response from destructive to protective and thereby stopped disease progression.”

Professor Reynolds was very quick to explain that this vaccine is specific for certain types of destructive disease associated with specific bacteria and was unlikely to stop all forms of periodontal disease.

“All forms of periodontal disease may put the patient’s overall health at risk, so people still need to be regularly checked by a dental hygienist or oral health therapist.”

The earlier that infection is detected, the better the outcome.

“Early diagnosis is critical and the recommendation of a vaccine is as an adjunct to current therapy.”

“The vaccine will help Periodontists to manage the disease but patients will still need to regularly visit their dental hygienist or oral health therapist to maintain ongoing treatment.

ABOVE LEFT Dr

Jason Lenzo and Professor Eric Reynolds with the MoFlo XDP high speed cell sorter used to identify bacterial activity.

ABOVE William

Singleton and Professor Eric Reynolds at a biosafety cabinet discussing a strain of the oral bacterium Porphyromonas gingivalis.

11

The next steps ‘We’re hoping to start human trials next year (2018), on a few hundred people with pre-existing moderate to severe chronic periodontitis.

“These will be standard trials where individuals are randomly assigned either to a real vaccine or a placebo.

“Most cases will be patients referred to the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne but we may be reaching out to specialist periodontists for cases of severe, refractory periodontitis.”

Helping with diagnosis The research team’s industry partner, CSL, have developed antibodies to create a diagnostic testing tool.

This chair-side test will function in a similar way to a pregnancy test but with saliva. A positive result will indicate the presence of specific pathogenic bacteria and the patient can then be referred to a specialist; “We’re hoping to have something on the market in early 2018.”

Read further details on the test here.

“ We’re hoping to start human trials next year (2018), on a few hundred people with pre-existing moderate to severe chronic periodontitis.”

Professor Eric Reynolds

Keen to learn more?

The upcoming PgMelbourne2017 Conference in May, is the third in a series of world conferences. Having already been invited to present at both previous events, in Japan and London, Professor Reynolds is in a good place to recommend attending.

“The presenters are world-leading experts in their field and are incredible communicators.

They are able to explain complex science to anyone. In the same way that TV’s Professor Brian Cox explains the complexities of the universe to the general public.

“Every dental hygienist should consider coming along as it will be an absolutely fantastic two days.”

Full details of PgMelbourne2017 are still to be released but you can keep up to date with developments on their website. n

12

Wake up to work

13

Marcy Patsanza, tells of how she is managing the tricky transition from student to the workplace

F

ailing to prepare is certainly preparing to fail! Receiving or buying a diary at the beginning of the year is a great idea – only if you actually get down to using it.

Finally stepping out into the professional world that you have spent time studying, dreaming and working hard for, can be a wake-up call you cannot snooze!

Unlike ‘genuinely’ missing class because your dog Rocky is not well, you cannot leave 8-10 patients awaiting your services at work. You’d better show up!

Making it to work on time may not be an issue, however making sure you don’t run late with your patients may be the challenge.

Recalling how exhausting it is to treat four patients a day during the final months of studying now seems like a scene from a fictitious movie. I have even stopped judging those who fall asleep on the bus or train from work, yet alone on their ride to work, because they too must have a wakeup call they cannot snooze!

Two months into the work routine, I feel like I am slowly beginning to lift my head to catch a breath! I have come close to understanding what my grandmother’s arthritic hands may have felt like after a few weeks of constant hand scaling.

The transition from my protected student nest has been like that rollercoaster ride, but one which is certainly worth paying for. Although I can’t snooze this wake up call, I definitely wake up excited for what each day has to offer!.

Staying on track in these early days, and avoiding failure, I have realised that I need to be well-prepared.

I have decided to make use of my diary to help me meet deadlines, attend meetings on time and remember the catch-up dates with friends – all of

which have suffered already this year with the new work/life balance.

Getting to work 15 minutes earlier than the usual 15 minutes early I am expected to arrive, has proved to be highly effective as it allows me more time to acclimatise to the work environment, read up the patient notes, and to set up the surgery.

A countdown timer? Yes, I tried this and it worked. Restarting it for every patient helps ensure that you work within the allocated time. It also saves tricky calculations ,of how much time is left, from an analogue wall clock.

Preparing my lunch and dinner meals in advance is also well worth it, especially when you walk into the house after a long day at work and all you want to do is sleep.

Lastly, taking note of lessons learned in my ergonomics lectures will hopefully save me attending too many physiotherapy sessions.

Working as a dental hygienist has already been fulfilling – definitely worth the reward of a sleepin on the weekends.

I would be easy to feel like one is constantly giving their service but I have found that I am receiving much more fulfilment from seeing the patients leave my care with a glowing healthy smile!

Opportunities in the field are endless and having the chance to work in the aged care sector can certainly keep you motivated and inspired.

Especially on the days you have the honour of treating a patient who has received a letter from the Queen!

I am sure the transition is different for all of us out there but I have discovered the key to excelling is good preparation as failing to prepare is indeed, preparing to fail. n

14

B

Fiona Bartley reports on how you should manage your occupational health to work better for longer

ack pain, neck pain, shoulder pain, these are the common problems we as dental professionals feel at the end of the day. I know I’m not the only person whingeing about my sore neck and back after gruelling day of scaling. Returning home begging my husband to massage my back at every opportunity and making regular trips to the physiotherapist. We are all guilty of sacrificing our posture, hunching over our patients to reach that tricky tooth up at the back.

I’ve been employed as a full-time dental hygienist for five years and already I’ve begun to worry about how my body will cope in this work environment over the long term.

The working stance of a dental hygienist is physically demanding with long static periods. Constant repetition of poor positioning and posture can lead to serious chronic disorders of our musculoskeletal health and even lead to permanent disability.

These problems can not only cause us pain, but can cost us time, money and may result in us being unable to perform in chair procedures for patients. Nobody wants to prematurely end their career in the dental profession due to pain.

DHAA President, Dr Melanie Hayes, has for many years been researching this field of study and examining musculoskeletal disorders in dental hygienists. We have asked Dr Hayes to answer the most frequently asked questions pertaining to our complex occupational problems; What type of injury is most common in dental professionals?

Among hygienists the neck and hand/wrist are the most common, while in dentists it is the neck and back.

What is the main cause of these injuries?

While musculoskeletal injuries can occur after a single event,

most in dentistry are due to cumulative trauma - the repetitive nature of our jobs.

How many dental professionals are affected?

Almost all dental professionals experience pain during their career. Reports of general musculoskeletal pain have been reported in the past year by as many as 96% of participants in research studies.

So what can we do to help minimise our risk of being burdened with musculoskeletal problems and becoming another statistic? There are three main strategies for tackling this multifactorial problem in our profession. They are; Primary Prevention Education and training, identifying at-risk behaviours, inner ergonomics to maintain neutral positioning of the operator and outer ergonomics which include ergonomic instruments, correct chair, loupes, good lighting and use of mirror.

Secondary Prevention Regular physiotherapy appointments, exercise programs like pilates to improve core strength and promote mobility for stressed muscles, regular stretching between patients, job modification with fewer hours or more breaks.

Tertiary Prevention Vocational rehabilitation and chronic disease management.

It’s so important to respect your musculoskeletal health in order to safeguard your health and career longevity. We have strong research evidence to support the importance of ergonomics relating to injury prevention for dental professionals today. So assess yourself and start implementing strategies that will help you maintain a long and fulfilling career. n

References: An international review of musculoskeletal disorders in the dental hygiene profession. (Hayes MJ, Smith DR, Cockrell D); Predictors of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among dental hygienists. (Hayes MJ, Taylor JA, Smith DR.); A systematic review of musculoskeletal disorders among dental professionals. (Hayes MJ, D Cockrell and DR Smith); The Effectiveness of Pilates Exercise in People with Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review (Cherie Wells1,2*, Gregory S. Kolt2 , Paul Marshall2 , Bridget Hill3 , Andrea Bialocerkowski4); Stretching your way out of pain in the dental office: Frequent stretching throughout the work day can have big benefits for dental practitioners. (Dr. Bethany Valachi, PT, MS, CEAS)

15

“ It’s so important to respect your musculoskeletal health in order to safeguard your health and career longevity.”

The correct working station can take huge pressure off of your body

16

Old Drugs Don’t Work We have some expired local anaesthetic in our practice, and the owner of the practice says it is safe to use for a few weeks. Is that right? When is it ok to use out-of-date medicines?

It is so tempting to see expiry dates as optional, isn’t it?

Especially when the product looks okay. If it were covered in mould and oozing with slime it would be so much easier to just throw it away! Some people think expiry dates are just a

a fixed time after manufacture, after dispensing or after opening of the manufacturer’s container.

Drugs are given an expiry date based on testing under a range of storage and handling conditions to determine its shelf-life and how best to maintain product integrity over time. It is often presumed that the expiry date only represents decline of the active ingredient, but other factors include:

“ If a patient were harmed by use of an out-of-date product in their treatment, they would have no trouble suing you for negligence.” marketing ploy by drug manufacturers to keep you restocking your shelves and lining their pockets and others think they will save money, nay, even the planet by using expired medicines. But expiry dates are very real and meaningful and over the years I’ve learned that ignoring them is generally a false economy.

There are many reasons to respect expiry dates on pharmaceutical products, not least of which is that they are legal requirement imposed by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. The expiry date indicates the date beyond which the strength, quality, and purity of the original product can no longer be legally guaranteed by the manufacturer.

Depending on the product, the expiry date may be set as

n

n

n

n

oss of sterility due to microbial contamination or L deterioration of preservatives Growth of bacteria and fungi on the product itself (sterile or not) – e.g. mould growing on tablets and capsules Degradation of ingredients into breakdown products which may be toxic Deterioration of the formulation e.g. dissolved ingredients crystallising out, capsules melting, tablets hardening, rubber bungs deteriorating, plasticisers leaching etc.

So even if expired pharmaceuticals have plenty of active ingredient remaining, the formulation can spoil for other

17

Dr Geraldine Moses, Consultant pharmacist to the ADA and DHAA, tells us when it’s OK to use out-of-date medicines? reasons making it unsafe. If a patient were harmed by use of an out-of-date product in their treatment, they would have no trouble suing you for negligence. Think about it- would you want your dentist using out-of-date local anaesthetic on you?

Adrenaline-containing local anaesthetics (LA’s) have a particularly short shelf-life due to the instability of the adrenaline. When exposed to heat, light and air adrenaline is oxidised to a pink-reddish-brown substance called adrenochrome which has been linked with causing adverse psychiatric effects. The evidence for these adverse effects is rather old and weak, nonetheless that is why adrenalinecontaining LA’s contain antioxidants and preservatives to protect the adrenaline from degradation, and why it is recommended to throw away adrenaline-containing LA’s if the solution looks pink, red or brown. n

References: Jolowsky C. What Happens to Epinephrine After the Expiration Date?

Medscape Pharmacists. August 2007 www.medscape.com/viewarticle/559512 Australian Pharmaceutical Advisory Committee. Australian guidelines for drug donations to developing countries. November 2000. apps.who.int/medicinedocs/ documents /s20164en/s20164en.pdf ; FDA Questions and Answers for the Public Donating Drugs to International Humanitarian Relief Efforts. www.fda.gov/downloads /NewsEvents/PublicHealthFocus /UCM 249617.pdf ; WHO Guidelines for Drug Donations Revised 1999. www.who.int/hac/techguidance/guidelines_for_drug_ donations.pdf ; FDA News and Events. Stockpiled Antivirals at or Nearing Expiration.

22/10/2010 www.fda.gov/NewsEvents/PublicHealthFocus/ucm154962.htm

How to dispose of expired or unwanted medicines safely JUST TAKE IT to your local pharmacy for collection in their “Return of Unwanted Medicines” bin. The Return of Unwanted Medicines (RUM) project is a free Australiawide service coordinated through local pharmacies. Special yellow RUM bins collect out-of-date, unwanted and left-over medicines, and when full, the pharmacy arranges for a commercial waste company to collect and dispose of the medicines safely in high temperature incinerators.

In summary: the manufacturer’s expiry date reflects the shelf life of a product during which time it is guaranteed to meet the specifications provided in the product’s registered product information. After this date, the product may still work but it may deteriorate in all sorts of other ways to make the product substandard. Unless you are prepared to take the risk of harming your patients, expired medicines should not be used and just thrown away.

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

NATION STATE South Australia

“ A ground-breaking collaborative learning environment – the building will house a total of 1,600 students and 600 researchers; it has four floors of laboratories and three lecture theatres.”

2017 IS OFF to a flying start for DHAA SA – and what a year it will be with National Symposium in Adelaide 2017.

This year we show off our magnificent city to the rest of Australia. An amazing opportunity to network with colleagues from all over the country, hear inspiring speakers, participate in workshops and enjoy awesome social events. The event is worth approx. 15CPD hours. Register now for the early-bird price and we look forward to seeing you all in our beautiful city.

As the incoming Chair for SA I would like to express my gratitude for the amazing opportunity I have been offered to serve our community. I will work diligently to support our profession and the dental profession as a whole.

Thank you so much to Tracey Herman for the tireless work she has done for our association over the last five years – three years as Chair and two years as National Councillor. I would like to take this opportunity to wish her every success for the next phase in her life.

Our festive Christmas Breakfast Meeting at the National Wine Centre last December was a great social

DHAA SA Chair Lyn Carman with Troy Longbottom

The impressive Sciences building is now officially open

event to round up our year.

We had the chance to catch up on DHAA business and an opportunity for 1.5 CPD hours when Past National President Hellen Checker presented a very informative session on social media and advertising Our New Graduates Supper was held last month to welcome our newest professional colleagues to our community. An evening of networking to meet with our association members, industry reps and to enjoy

drinks and nibbles. We look forward to seeing all our new Graduates at an event soon.

Cheryl Dey and I, represented the DHAA at the official opening of The Adelaide University Health and Medical Sciences Building housing our new Dental Clinics last Friday 24th Feb. The Adelaide Dental Hospital is set to move into the new facility in July, on the top three floors of the 14-storey building with state of the art equipment and

19 For all the latest info on DHAA events near you please visit www.dhaainfo/events

lecture theatres. A groundbreaking collaborative learning environment – the building will house a total of 1,600 students and 600 researchers – it has four floors of laboratories and three lecture theatres. It will combine the Adelaide Medical School, Adelaide Nursing School, Adelaide Dental School and School of Public Health campuses on one site.

DHAA SA has been extended an invitation to sit on the scientific working committee for ADA Congress 2019 Adelaide. We value and appreciate the invitation to have input, working towards a more integrated and inclusive program for practitioners.

Tracey Herman and I have accepted and look forward to working with the ADA. Our recent CPD supper event at the Hackney Hotel on Tuesday 21 March had guest speaker Jo Bills, physiotherapist, discussing Injury Prevention – Applying Ergonomic Principles.

This was a well-attended function and gave us the first opportunity to catch up for the year.

We look forward to an exciting and engaging year ahead 2017!

Lyn Carman South Australia State Chair

Victoria

I HOPE THE first quarter of 2017 is treating you well We’ve already ticked off a couple of CPD events. The next one is planned for June 3 at the Grange Bellinzona in Daylesford and followed by a dinner. Speakers are being finalised. The event is sponsored by Colgate.

This will be followed by a half-day event and luncheon that we are sharing with the NSW branch.

The 2017 CPD year will finish with a bang when we host our Christmas party and don’t forget about the National Symposium Adelaide in October!

Some of the speakers we have already confirmed for this year include the DHAA’s own Dr. Melanie Hayes speaking on the future of dental hygiene at the Daylesford day and periodontists Adam Rosenberg and Jessica Wei lined up for the combined event in August.

Please check the DHAA website for all details regarding CPD dates and

“ The 2017 CPD year will finish with a bang when we host our Christmas party and don’t forget about the National Symposium Adelaide in October!

information, we are still finalising details and speakers but all dates are locked in.

Please note the date of the Vic/NSW event is Saturday, 19 August (and NOT the 26 August).

The Victoria branch welcomes two new committee members. Sarah Laing will take up the role of communications officer and Aimee Mills is a new graduate keen to help out.

Both ladies bring experience and enthusiasm and I am looking forward to working with a focused and hard working committee.

As always, please feel free to contact any of us especially if you have any CPD topics you are interested in as we are now projecting into 2018 or if you have any constructive feedback.

Welcome to all new members, our member base is increasing which is great news! Thanks to everyone for your all your support, networking and sharing is an important aspect of what we do. All State Chairs and Directors are constantly working together as the association grows and changes with an exciting future ahead!

Anne DiPaolo Victoria State Chair

20

Northern Territory

“ Our Alice Springs members have been listened to as well and are not being forgotten with an event currently in the works for in the new financial year. “

WE”RE WELL INTO the new year and the DHAA is working to get more local events happening in the NT. Oral and Maxillo-facial surgeon Dr Leon Smith will be discussing oral pathologies most seen here in his Darwin practice and what you need to be looking out for in your workplace at an upcoming event on the 11 May. To be held at the Darwin Sailing Club it is set to be a great evening.

Our Alice Springs members have been listened to as well and are not being forgotten with an event currently in the works for in the new financial year. Keep an eye out on the DHAA website for upcoming details (will likely be available by the time ‘the bulletin’ reaches you) especially if you are looking for an excuse for an outback holiday.

We are looking for a NT member to become part of the NT committee. If you are interested in helping to organise some local events and have some spare time please email me at directornt@dhaa.info Leonie Brown NT Director

Tasmania

“ We look forward to working with Dr Du Bois with a handson advanced instrumentation session anticipated for May.”

IT IS A great pleasure to be representing Tasmania as the new State Chair. After such a successful Symposium in Hobart I have got some big shoes to fill!

A big thank you to outgoing Director, Danielle Gibbens and Chair, Linda Thomas for all of their hard work representing our state.

Incoming Director, Andrea Shoobridge is my partner in crime and we are working towards some exciting upcoming CPD events.

In February, we welcomed Dr Alex Du Bois, a new Hobart Periodontist, with a meet and greet evening sponsored by Colgate at The Duke in Hobart.

We look forward to working with Dr Du Bois with a handson advanced instrumentation session anticipated for May. A full CPD day is also planned for July at Peppers Seaport Hotel in Launceston with some great speakers.

If you enjoyed the Hobart Symposium and would like to spend some more time with us, check the DHAA member’s website for news on upcoming events.

For all of those My Kitchen Rules fans, if you detour to Tasmanian Truffles you might be lucky enough to meet Henry the Truffle Farmer!

Rachelle Johnson Tasmania State Chair

X-MIND™ UNITY

21

- A sharp, contrasted image with a 0.4mm focal spot, configurable kV and mA parameters.

X-MIND™ UNITY WITH SOPIX® INSIDE - Up to 52% less radiation with ACE technology.

- Safety through traceability – dosage displayed after each exposure.

SOPIX® - ACE technology – No more overexposed images.

- Available in Benchtop or Integrated into X-Mind™ unity.

- Standard Definition (12lp/mm) and High Definition (18lp/mm).

2

PSPIX®

- Smallest imaging plate scanner on the market compatible with MAC & Windows.

- Fast, sharp and contrasted images for a reliable diagnosis.

- Sharable with up to 10 workstations.

SOPROCARE® - Everyday fluorescence for the most effective patient communication.

- Reveals plaque, calculus and gingival inflammation (Perio mode).

- Detects caries (Cario mode).

NEWTRON

®

- Patented ultrasonic technology for tissue preservation, automatic power regulation, controlled vibrations and patient/ practitioner comfort.

- Colour Coding System enables intuitive adjustment of power.

HYGIENE ULTRASONIC TIPS - The specific hardness of steel; nearest to enamel.

- Supra and Sub-gingival scaling tips for versatile and gentle hygiene treatment.

PERIO ULTRASONIC TIPS - Gentle, non-surgical periodontal debridement, biofilm disruption, root planning and periodontal maintenance.

AIR-N-GO® EASY - Air polisher for both supra and sub-gingival treatments.

- 1 Supra-gingival and 3 sub-gingival nozzles for all applications.

- Wide powder range, 5 “Classic” natural flavours and “Pearl” for Supra-gingival and “Perio” for sub-gingival.

RISKONTROL® - Outstanding hygiene, no sacrifice on clinical outcomes.

- Clinically proven disposable syringe for totally dry air and water.

- Flexible tip with bayonet style fitting for patient safety.

more inventive, less invasive A COMPLETE RANGE FOR HYGIENE

22

Queensland

Firstly, I would like to acknowledge Robbern White, our outgoing state chair. Robbern has been an exceptional in her role and we thank her for her dedication to our association over the past two years. Although she is stepping down as chair, she will remain a valuable member of our state committee this year.

We welcome Andrea Maguire (our new communication officer), Leah Hobbs and Marcelle Johnson to the team and thank our returning members Deb Holliday, Kay Ball, Shiralee Davis, Tiana Romeo, Lizzy Stenhouse, Carol Tran and Robbern White for their continued support.

January saw our first CPD event for 2017 - our joint CPD seminar with DHAA NSW in beautiful Byron Bay. It was a very successful event with an array of speakers presenting on the topics of ‘The Whole Body Effect’. I hope you enjoyed the day.

In February, your state committee held our annual planning day meeting in preparation for the year ahead. This was an inspiring day to plan upcoming CPD events, community events and university involvement.

The rest of the year will see more CPD opportunities including a hands on sharpening workshop, brunch meeting on the gorgeous Sunshine Coast, a half-day seminar at the UQ St Lucia campus and don’t forget the annual DHAA Symposium in Adelaide.

Lastly, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the DHAA for this opportunity as your new state chair. I am looking forward to a great year, working with a truly inspirational team.

Thank you for your support and I will see you at our next event and remember to keep up-to-date via the dhaa.info website.

Carlene Franklin Queensland State Chair

“ January saw our first CPD event for 2017 - our joint CPD seminar with DHAA NSW in beautiful Byron Bay. It was a very successful event with an array of speakers presenting on the topics of ‘The Whole Body Effect’.”

New South Wales

“T he NSW committee has worked really hard to put together a jam packed 2017 and we are hoping that we will receive the same support as last year.”

23 For all the latest info on DHAA events near you please visit www.dhaainfo/events

2016 WAS A fantastic year for the NSW committee with over 600 people attending courses for the year. We started 2017 with a bang holding a joint conference with Qld in Byron Bay with over 100 attendees.

The NSW committee has worked really hard to put together a jam packed 2017 and we are hoping that we will receive the same support as last year.

Our next event coming up with be a very special day in Bowral with three amazing specialist periodontists Dr David Grossberg, Dr Kevin Todes and Dr Alex Kalos. The program was written by the three specialists aimed at practical applications of

non surgical periodontal treatment.

We are attempting to put on a number of events this year all over NSW with events already held in the Blue Mountains and Byron Bay and to be held in Bowral, Wollongong, Sydney, Hunter Valley, Newcastle, Coffs Harbour and Mount Beauty.

Our aim is to hold high quality CPD events in great locations.

If you have a suggestion on a topic or location you would like to see please email us at contactnsw@dhaa.info We look forward to seeing you at an upcoming event very soon.

Tabitha Acret NSW State Chair

GET INVOLVED

The Great Fluoride Debate WE’VE ALL BEEN THERE. That patient that sits down and tells you that fluoride is a potent neurotoxin and that we shouldn’t be using fluoridated products. Although as dental clinicians we may well secretly roll our eyes, but how much do we really know on this topic?

Did you know dental decay is the most common type of health problem in Australia?

Water fluoridation is a cost-effective public health measure which has been proven to reduce dental decay in both low and high socioeconomic societies.

The scientific evidence on the benefits and potential harm of water fluoridation has been extensively reviewed.

It provides oral health protection to our population irrespective of an individual’s access to dental treatments, socio-economic background and health behaviour.

Although the majority of dental and medical professionals support water fluoridation as a costeffective public health measure to prevent dental decay.

A small group of academics involved in anti-fluoride campaigns claim that among other things, fluoride is a bio-accumulative, endocrine disrupting neurotoxic carcinogen.

How do you respond to people that are involved in anti-fluoride campaigns?

We’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas.

Please email the editor: bulletin@dhaa.info

All smiles from Team NSW after a delightful high tea

This information has been compiled from NSW Health.

For further information please visit their website.

24

ACT

“ Mary drilled a hole into this beautiful piece of wood and glued the gracay into it and thats how this amazing plaque came to be.”

THE DHAA ACT Branch has a beautiful tradition of awarding one of its members Hygienist of the Year. The members all vote on who they think is most deserving and that hygienist has his/ her name engraved onto the plaque and can keep it for the year and proudly show it off in their practice.

This idea was adopted from another state that already had a Hygienist of the Year Award. At a National Council Meeting it was discussed that other state or territory branches might want to consider giving a similar award.

Mary Beare was at a trade show and saw the very large novelty gracey curette at the Hu-Friedy booth and thought that it would make a wonderful award.

“I believe it was the lovely Judy Goode who gave it (the 13/14 replica) to me. I had the beautiful Huon Pine wood cut given to me by a friend (from Tasmania. A very special tree that grows very slowly) and the two were perfect together.”

Mary drilled a hole into this beautiful piece of wood and glued the gracay into it and thats how this amazing plaque came to be.

The plaque reads “IFDH Day

Kathryn Novak presenting the award to Michelle Bonney

ACT Hygienist of the Year Award donated by Hu Friedy” and was first given to Wendy Dashwood in 2002.

In 2016 it was awarded to the very sweet and deserving Michelle Bonney, who is our ACT Branch secretary. Our Director, Kathryn Novak says; “ I voted for her because she has been the quiet achiever in the committee for ages now.

“She is always available when I need her. She always follows through with what she says she will do. Despite being a chick of very few words, the words she does use are insightful and helpful and always positive.

Michelle is also very helpful with technological stuff, AND she fosters Labradors… which has nothing to do with

hygiene but shows what a caring person she is. Who wouldn’t want to reward a chick like that?

This was awarded at the ACT end of year Xmas party at The Pedlar, while members caught up over delicious food and a few drinks.

Members also all brought along a bag full of toiletries and sanitary items to donate to homeless women, and women in shelters, for the share the dignity project (sharethedignity.com.au) Now we head into the 2017 year with the very lovely Madellyn Kennedy as our new ACT Chair.

Madellyn, Kathryn and Michelle have already been busy working on what looks like a wonderful year of CPD

25 For all the latest info on DHAA events near you please visit www.dhaainfo/events

for 2017, and we warmly invite all our fellow DHAA members to join us.

On Friday the 31 March we have the NSW/ACT half day CPD - Practical Periodontics for Outstanding Hygienists.

This will be held at Peppers Craigieburn, Bowral and you can get tickets for this event from Eventbrite.

June 14 we will have a dinner meeting with Dr Wayne Sherson from Dentistry At The Cross. He will be giving a presentation on Hepatitis C and HIV, which apparently has changed dramatically in the last 18 months.

And the ACT Branch PD day “Better Together” will be held on Friday 11 August.

There will also be a members only meeting at Embrace Orthodontics in Manuka on Tuesday the 21 March. Our guest speaker will be a speech pathologist and myofunctional practitioner, Sharon Moore, speaking on sleep disorders.

We look forward to catching up with you at these events and/or the National Symposium later in the year.

On behalf of all our ACT members, we wish you a fabulous 2017!

Dahlia Kruyer ACT State Committee Member

Western Australia

THIS IS MY first year as DHAA WA Chairperson and I am honoured to have been elected for this position.

2017 is shaping up to be a busy year with many CPD events happening and many more in the pipeline.

WA’s Infection Control seminar on the 18 February was informative and valued by all that attended.

It has been stressed that Infection Control updates are mandatory and necessary to keep operators in current sterilisation and infection control techniques.

An evening seminar with always-popular Professor Marc Tennant, “State-of-theState oral health of Australia” will be held at ADA House Perth, on the 28 March..

Our exciting up and coming seminar ‘Through the Looking Glass’ on 3 June (WA Day long weekend) will be our day seminar at the beautiful Abbey Beach Resort in Busselton WA. A superb wine tour has been organised as an additional activity for $95.

A four month trial program has been organised on oral care of 0-4 year olds commencing in March.

The project focus is a primary oral health intervention model of care. It will target 0-4 year olds and their parents who attend family centres and local child care centres in Maida Vale and surrounding suburbs.

Volunteers have been called for this project details are included in the latest newsletter DHAA. The new quarterly State newsletter and Bulletin, are always good sources of information. For any WA events that require the “Member-only” password, please refer to the original email that you received advertising the event. If you have any questions or comments, please be sure to contact our WA Liaison officer, Bonnie Boudreau at: contactwa@dhaa.info I hope to see you all at upcoming events in 2017!

Aileen Lewis Western Australia State Chair

“ It has been stressed that Infection Control updates are mandatory and necessary to keep operators in current sterilisation and infection control techniques.

26

DHAA Year Planner The 2017 CPD Events calendar is already filling up. Full details at www.dhaainfo/events MAR-17

28 March

DHAA WA Evening seminar with professor Marc Tennant

TBC

31 March

DHAA ACT/NSW Joint CPD Day “Practical periodontics for outstanding hygienists”

Peppers Craigieburn, Bowral, NSW

11 May

DHAA NT Oral Pathology

Darwin Sailing Club, NT

13 May

DHAA NSW Hunter Valley CPD Full Day

Crown Plaza Hunter Valley, Lovedale, NSW

17-21 May

ADA Congress

Melbourne, VIC

TBC

DHAA QLD Homeless Connect

TBC

3 June

DHAA WA Full day seminar “Through the Looking Glass”

Abbey Beach Resort, Busselton WA

3 June

DHAA VIC

Daylesford, VIC

14 June

DHAA ACT CPD Dinner Meeting “Hepatitis C and HIV”

TBC

14 June

DHAA NSW CPD Dinner Meeting

North Sydney Harbourview Hotel, Sydney, NSW

23 June

DHAA SA Dinner Meeting

Adelaide Oval, SA

24 June

DHAA NT/ADOHTA joint event

TBC

22 July

DHAA NSW CPD Full Day

Airport function Centre, Sydney NSW

TBC

DHAA TAS CPD Full Day

Peppers Seaport Hotel, Launceston TAS

5 August

DHAA QLD half day event + CPR

Brisbane, QLD

11 August

DHAA ACT PD Day “Better Together”

TBC

19 August

DHAA NSW/VIC CPD event

Ceccanti Kiewa Valley Wines (near Mt Beauty)

2 September

DHAA VIC

Albury, VIC

9 September

DHAA QLD Brunch Meeting

Sunshine Coast, QLD

16 September

DHAA NSW Coffs Harbour CPD Half Day

Novotel Coffs Harbour Pacific Bay Resort, Coffs Harbour, NSW

OCT 2017

12-14 October

DHAA 2017 National Symposium

Adelaide Convention Centre, Adelaide, SA

NOV-17

18 November

DHAA VIC Christmas drinks

TBC

19 November

DHAA QLD Christmas Breakfast Meeting

Brisbane, QLD

TBC

DHAA QLD Homeless Connect

TBC

3 December

DHAA SA Christmas Breakfast

TBC

MAY-17

JUN-17

JUL-17 AUG-17

SEP-17

DEC-17

Key to the state colours n ACT

nN SW

n NT

n Qld

nS A

n Tas

n Vic

nW A

27

Develop Empower Support www.dhaa.info

STRIVING FOR EXCELLENCE