The Bulletin - Issue 48 Sept / Oct 2018

Issue 48 Sept-Oct 2018

The official newsletter of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia Ltd

Are you covered?

Read our guide on when you do, and when you don’t, need public liability insurance.

Symposium 2018 Workshops

Is it time for a name change?

Five more great ways to earn CPD and learn

Our industry is evolving.

So, should we?

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

21st INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM 21stINTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONAL SYMPOSIUM 21st SYMPOSIUM ON DENTAL HYGIENE ON DENTAL DENTAL HYGIENE HYGIENE LEADERSHIP EMPOWERMENT ADVANCES DIVERSITY

LEADERSHIPEMPOWERMENT EMPOWERMENT ADVANCES LEADERSHIP ADVANCESDIVERSITY DIVERSITY 15-17 AUGUST 2019 | BRISBANE AUSTRALIA

15-17 AUGUST AUGUST 2019 15-17 2019 || BRISBANE BRISBANEAUSTRALIA AUSTRALIA You’re invited to the International Symposium on Dental Hygiene 2019 You’reinvited invitedto tothe theInternational International Symposium Symposium on Dental Hygiene 2019 You’re onthe Dental he Symposium, held every three years under auspices ofHygiene the International2019

KEY DATES KEY DATES Registration KEY DATES Registration now open! now open!

Registration Sunrise registration rate now open!registration rate Sunrise now available! now available!

Sunrise registration rate Late breaking poster submissions now available!

Late breaking poster submissions open open Late breaking2018 poster submissions 3 September 3 September 2018 open Late breaking poster submissions 3 September 2018 Late breaking poster submissions deadline deadline Late breaking poster 30 September 2018 submissions 30 September 2018 deadline Presenter registration deadline registration deadline 30Presenter September 2018 31 October 2018 31 October 2018 Presenter registration deadline Sunrise registration deadline registration deadline 31Sunrise October 2018 3131 November 2018 November 2018 Sunrise registration deadline Early bird registration rate bird registration rateopen open 31Early November 2018 1 December 2018 – 31 March 1 December 2018 – 31 March 2019 Early bird registration rate open 2019 1 December 2018 – 31 March Standard registration rate Standard registration rateopen open 2019 1 April 2019 – 17 August 1 April 2019 – 17 August2019 2019 Standard registration rate open ISDH 2019 ISDH 2019 1 April 2019 – 17 August 2019 1515 – 17 August 2019 – 17 August 2019 ISDH 2019 15 – 17 August 2019

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Federation of Dental Hygienists comes Australia with DHAA proud he Symposium, held every three (IFDH), years under theto auspices of in the2019 International he Symposium, held every three years under the auspices of the International to host this international event for the second time.

Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH), comes to Australia in 2019 with DHAA proud Federation Dental Hygienists comes to Australia in 2019 with DHAA proud to host Program this of international event for(IFDH), the second time.

The Scientific will focus on all aspects of oral health practice to uncover the vital role to host this international event for the second time. ofThe oralScientific health practitioners primary providers comprehensive care.

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The program will be structured around the theme of the conference; LEAD: Leadership, dental hygienists, dental therapists, oral health therapists and other healthcare providers.

The program willAdvances be structured the theme of the conference; LEAD: Leadership, Empowerment, andaround Diversity.

Empowerment, Advances and Diversity.

The program will be structured around the theme of thechallenges conference; LEAD: care Leadership, Leadership: Leadership models in practice, leadership in health for the next Empowerment, Advances and Diversity.

Leadership: Leadership models in practice, leadership challenges in health care for the next decade, coaching and mentoring, succession planning; decade, coaching and mentoring, planning; challenges in health care for the next Leadership: Leadership models insuccession practice, leadership Empowerment: empowering hygienists in the workplace; empowering patients; decade, coaching and mentoring, succession Empowerment: empowering hygienists in the planning; workplace; empowering patients; empowering students; empowering students; Empowerment: empowering hygienists in the workplace;science, empowering patients; Advances: research that supports advances in education, or clinical care; Advances: research that supports advances in education, science, or clinical care; empowering students; Diversity: oral health for diverse population groups.

Diversity: oral healththat for supports diverse population Advances: research advances groups. in education, science, or clinical care; Registration is now open ISDHpopulation 2019. Registration Diversity: oral health for for diverse groups. can be completed via online Registration is now open for ISDH 2019. Registration can be completed via online registration form on the website www.isdh2019.com registration form on the website www.isdh2019.com Registration isType now open for ISDH 2019.Sunrise Registration be30 completed via2018 online Registration Rate can Until November Registration Type Sunrise Rate Until 30 November 2018 registration form on the website www.isdh2019.com Full Registration $660 AUD 430 Euro 490 USD Full Registration $660 AUDRate Until 430 Euro 490 USD2018 Registration Type Sunrise 30 November Early bird from December – March 2019 Early bird from December – March 2019 Full Registration $660 AUD 430 Euro 490 USD Full Registration – Member $750AUD AUD 475Euro Euro 550USD USD Full Registration – Member $750 475 550 Early bird from December – March 2019 Full $800AUD AUD 525Euro Euro 590USD USD FullRegistration Registration –– Non Non Member Member $800 525 590 Full Registration – Member $750 AUD 475 Euro 550 USD Dinner $125AUD AUD 80Euro Euro USD DinnerTickets Tickets $125 80 9595USD Full Registration – Non Member $800 AUD 525 Euro 590 USD

Sunrise Registration Payment$125 PlanAUD Sunrise Registration Rate Rate Payment Plan Dinner Tickets

80 Euro AApayment is offered offeredto tothose those paymentplan plan of of 33 equal equal instalments instalments is Sunrise Registration Payment Plan registering at Registration Rate. registering atthe the Sunrise SunriseRate Registration Rate.

Head to website information.

AHead payment of 3 for equal instalments is offered to those tothe theplan website for more information. registering at the Sunrise Registration Rate.

Formore moreinformation information about ISDH For ISDH 2019, 2019,including including Head to the website for more information.

registration and and accommodation, accommodation, please registration pleasevisit visit For more information about ISDH 2019, including www.isdh2019.com www.isdh2019.com registration and accommodation, please visit www.isdh2019.com

95 USD

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A whole host of new beginnings I DON’T KNOW how the rest of the country is travelling, but here in Adelaide the days are starting to get longer and warmer, there is definitely a hint of spring in the air!

With spring comes new beginnings, and recently we have had several new beginnings at the DHAA. Our new membership and insurance cycle kicked off in July, with record numbers of people joining the association and taking up our exclusive professional indemnity insurance deal with BMS. Although we are now running an annual membership you can still join or take up the BMS insurance at anytime during the year. Check out our website at dhaa.info for all the details.

We recently held our AGM, where we announced our new directors.

Congratulations to our new and continuing directors: Sahil Bareja (NSW), Tabitha Acret (NT and Vice-President), Carol Tran, (Qld), Cheryl Dey, (SA and acting President), Alyson McKinlay (Tas), Ron Knevel (Vic), and Sam Stuart (WA).

I would like to take this opportunity to thank outgoing ACT Director and President, Kathryn Novak, for her hard work and commitment in building and growing the DHAA to what it is today. Kathryn’s leadership has been greatly valued, and will remain an excellent example of her commitment and passion for the DHAA. We held our first student and new graduate “Preparation for Practice” event in Melbourne in August. This offered the next generation members of our profession a chance to hear information on insurance requirements, contracts, job application and interview advice, possible career development paths, DHAA services and feedback on the student to practice journey from recent graduates. We are holding this event again in Adelaide in November, make sure to register for some great tips.

Coming up next - our annual national symposium, “Talking teeth by the reef”, being held in Cairns from 18-20 October, is shaping up to be another amazing symposium.

I know Leonie Brown and her committee have been working hard to finalise all the details to make sure we have an educational, interesting and fun weekend. There is still time to register for the main program and workshops, and plan a sneaky minibreak in sunny Queensland. I’m really looking forward to seeing so many of you dressed in ‘tropical elegance’ for the gala dinner. For more information head to the DHAA Symposium 2018 website – dhaasymposium2018.com.au.

In the words of the late great Robin Williams: “Spring is nature’s way of saying, “Let’s party!” Enjoy the party everyone!

Cheryl Dey Acting DHAA National President

Contents 04 News Is it time we changed the name of our Association?

We state the case for discussion; Rant! asks ‘Who’s teaching our next generation?; and discover how to enhance practice through clinical research.

14 Symposium Cairns 2018 Check out five great workshop options to earn even more CPD hours.

16 Art of Communication Understanding each other to communicate effectively.

18 Are you covered?

We explain why and when you mighty need public liability insurance.

20 The Faces of our Future Five DHAA student leaders tell us what drives them.

26 Different Strokes Need a new challenge?

Perhaps it’s time to step outside your comfort zone.

28 Volunteer for good One lady (and her husband) take a volunteer trip to help communities in Vietnam.

30 State of the Nation Your traditional local state round-ups.

Key Contacts CEO Mel Hayes CONTACT

TREASURER Cheryl Day CONTACT

ADMINISTRATION & EVENTS OFFICER Patricia Chan CONTACT

IT REP Josh Galpin

BULLETIN EDITOR Jo Mohammadi

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

CONTACT

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ORAL HEALTH THERAPIST

What’s in a name?

DENTAL HYGIENIST

In this fast-paced and constantly evolving industry we question if the name of our Association is still 100% relevant.

T

he DHAA Board of Directors, in consultation with its staff and volunteers, have been reflecting on our increasing membership, and taking time to make sure that we not only provide valuable services but are also representative of all of our members.

At the very core of the DHAA is a focus on preventive oral health. What began many years ago with the profession of dental hygienist has evolved into an interdisciplinary approach to prevention care. While dental hygienists are still essential to the future of oral health, we recognise that oral health therapists and many other healthcare providers are working to promote oral health.

The DHAA prides itself on being a contemporary and inclusive association, and the Board is keen for our name to reflect this. We want the name of our association to represent all of our

members and be inviting for all those working to promote oral health. We want to break down the barriers that segregate oral health professionals.

Reflecting on our current membership, we note that less than half now identify as pure dental hygienists. Over 50% are oral health therapists, dental therapists or other dental and health professionals.

and the students and new graduates that are filtering into the industry. There has been a huge shift in education and training in the past 15 years in Australia, and today 90% of oral health students will graduate as an oral health therapist.

From informal discussions with new graduates and students, it appears the name of our Association is the first

“ Your thoughts and feedback are crucial, as ultimately the membership will vote and decide on whether a name change will occur.”

From the outside, it would appear that despite our name specifying that we are an association for dental hygienists that our services and reputation and mission have attracted a range of professionals working to promote oral health.

However, there is still a noticeable disconnect between our Association

and biggest stumbling block for oral health therapists considering that our Association is for them.

We need to consider whether the name of our Association is reflective of current practice and the practitioners we represent. It is argued that a more inclusive term is “oral health” as this

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51%

The number of DHAA members that are oral health therapists, dental therapists or other dental and health professionals.

90%

The number of oral health students will graduate as an oral health therapist. is embodied in all of the qualifications throughout Australia, whether they be dental hygiene or oral health therapy. It also facilitates us to be more inclusive and reflect an interdisciplinary approach to preventive care.

The DHAA is your association. Your thoughts and feedback are crucial, as ultimately the membership will vote and decide on whether a name change will occur. At upcoming CPD events we will be talking with you about a new name for the DHAA, and give you an opportunity to provide positive comment, constructive criticism, propose alternative names and ask questions. We will follow up with a survey to ensure all members have their say.

This is your chance to be a part of the future of your Association. We hope you support a change that reflects who we really are: an inclusive community focused on preventive oral health care. n

Interdental Explanation Craig Erskine Smith, CEO of Erskine Dental responds to last issues’ Rant! about brush colour confusion IN THE PREVIOUS issue of the Bulletin (Issue #47) the anonymous Rant! column published an open letter to suppliers regarding the confusion caused by the seemingly arbitrary colourcoding of inter-dental brushes.

We received the following response from Craig Erskine-Smith, CEO of Erskine Dental, the manufacturers of Piksters interdental brushes.

“WHEN I FIRST developed Piksters in 2004, I asked myself “What colour should I make them?” My first instinct was to go for attractive bright colours, but then I thought ‘Why not go for a standardised sequence we already know and use in dentistry?’

Piksters have, since inception, used the International Standards Organisation (ISO) which has prescribed the colour sequence used in categorising endodontic files.

Piksters start from Pink (size 00) to Black (size 7), followed by Orange (size 8) and Gold (size 9). Why don’t all the colours follow the ISO sequence? Because the ISO repeat the same colours after black, which would mean two pink Piksters! (00 and 8).

So, to avoid patient confusion, we use unique colours above size 7 black. But they are our only ‘non-standard’ colours.

The most popular interdental brushes used in Australia are the Pikster equivalent to size 0-7. Your article raises a good point, standardisation helps. But the standard should not be set by any company. That is why we have the independent Geneva based ISO, and why I used that.

I could suggest a ‘new work proposal’ to add orange and black to the endo colour sequence.

But as a committee member, I believe it will not be accepted. There’s too much time already invested in establishing a colour identity, packaging, confusing the existing consumers etc. New players might well consider it though! ” Craig Erskine-Smith, CEO Erskine Dental

Farewell Danielle A BIG THANK you to Danielle Gibbens who will be stepping down from Editor of the Bulletin. She’s stepping down with a bang as the last issue of the Bulletin (June 2018) hit a record of 1751 reads! Congratulations to the team. Don’t worry folks, Danielle will still be part of our fabulous writing team.

Curious about how you can contribute to the Bulletin?

Email: bulletin@dhaa.info

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Ask DHAA...

Your opportunity to ask the questions, check the rules and share your knowledge Dear DHAA... I recently saw a news article about a mobile dental clinic visiting school exploiting the Commonwealth’s Child Dental Benefit’s Schedule (CDBS) by making themselves look like a government clinic and not getting consent to take X-rays on children. I’m concerned this publicity will hurt our profession and how fellow peers could work for such a company.

Concerned NSW

Concerned, we are too! We hate seeing our profession portrayed in negative light in the media but unfortunately, this in some cases is going to happen to warn the public of potential concerns. In the case you are referring too, it was reported that over 30,000 children were radiographed without consent from their parents which is quite alarming.

The report in the Sydney Morning Herald continues by stating the peak dental body is concerned as these types of mobile practices put the CDBS scheme at risk of being stopped due to its exploitation which we have previously seen in the Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) program.

The Dental Hygienists

Fake clinics taking child X-rays without consent

Association of Australia (DHAA) does not support this behaviour by any dental professional/business and has a zero-tolerance policy on such breaches. We encourage our members if ever concerned about a way in which a practice is run, we encourage you to contact us. The DHAA has a team of experienced professionals who can help members identify any concerns and provide advice moving forward.

If you are a member of the DHAA who is working for this company, or one you feel is in a similar situation, we encourage you to contact the free (Industrial Relations) IR advice line. This is accessible

through the members section of the DHAA website.

We don’t want any of our members mistreated in practice, but keep in mind it may put you at risk of being professionally investigated by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).

This is a good reminder to all members, that as a part of your AHPRA registration; you have agreed to mandatory reporting of peers. If you are concerned about an issue be it a business or an individual, we encourage you to contact AHPRA who will be able to give you guidance on whether or not your concern falls under mandatory reporting. Unfortunately,

like any profession we have ‘rogue’ clinicians and businesses.

The more we learn, the more we understand how in which we practice. Nonscientific/clinical Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is just as important, despite not being of equal value in the mandatory 60 hours. If you aren’t gaining knowledge via CPD (no matter what classification it is) there is no way for you to know what you should be doing.

This is also why AHPRA often uses CPD as a part of it’s guidance for clinicians who have been reported. As often, it is a gap in knowledge that sees good clinicians make poor judgement calls. n

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YOUR CHANCE TO GET SOMETHING OFF OF YOUR CHEST

RANT! R

ecently I had the opportunity to talk with a few new graduates about their transition from university into practice.

What is clear is that tertiary education has changed significantly over the years, with entry into courses highly-competitive, workloads exceedingly unmanageable, and financial strains a given. Graduates are certainly relieved to get a job and start earning some money!

However, what really troubled me was their concerns that their training had not truly prepared them for work life, and that some of their teachers were ‘out of touch’ with what was happening in practice. It’s been a little while since I was at university, and I remember having the greatest respect for my tutors, who were always full of helpful anecdotes from the ‘real world’. I wondered how things could have changed; but that appears to be part of the problem.

Things haven’t changed!

It’s evident that many of the course coordinators and full-time faculty in our oral health programs have been holding these positions for as long as 15 years; with many not having worked as a practicing clinician for the whole time. In fact at some institutions, the entire tenured faculty lack any recent practicing clinical experience.

While I am sure they are lovely people, and undoubted experts in their field; without any recent clinical experience how can they communicate the relevance to those learning the craft?

The AHPRA rules on recency of practice are open to interpretation and, as such, many of the tenured academics teaching

Who’s teaching the next generation? the next generation count their teaching as “recent practice”. But is it really?

Do we really want hygienists, therapists and oral health therapists who have not maintained clinical practice with patients to be teaching the next generation? If you are not seeing patients on a regular basis, checking medical histories, formulating treatment plans, completing entire treatment plans, then how are you in touch with contemporary oral health practice?

How is it you ensure the curriculum is relevant and contemporary? Doing research for solid evidence-base content and understanding pedagogy are one

“ Do we really want hygienists, therapists and oral health therapists who have not maintained clinical practice with patients to be teaching the next generation?” thing, but I would have thought maintaining clinical relevance is paramount.

AHPRA data tells us that the majority of oral health therapists work mostly in dental hygiene, and predominantly in private practice. So why is it that our graduates have limited knowledge on discussing the fees associated with treatment planning, or have not learned contemporary techniques, such as air-polishing, digital scanning and in-chair whitening? Is it because those teaching the next generation have lost touch?

Of course, I understand that casual staff can play a critical role in learning dental hygiene and therapy skills. I myself had some fantastic experiences as a student, but also at times was brought to tears.

While many casual staff have appropriate clinical experience, including ongoing practice, have they received education on teaching and learning pedagogy? How many of the casual staff are competently trained in assessment, and giving feedback? And what about the supervisors out on external placements? What training do they have to be educators, and are all of these new simulation technologies really an adequate substitute for learning from a hygienist or therapist working in the field, providing their insights and anecdotes about what happens in the ‘real world’?

After doing some research, it appears that there are gaps in the education of oral health practitioners in Australia. I know that there are many experienced clinicians that would love the opportunity to share their knowledge and skills with students, however lifetime’ academics protecting their patch are potentially stalling the development of the profession.

I would like to see the DHAA advocating for clinical training that is contemporary and relevant, and appropriate staffing to meet these aims. Having more clinicians involved in the accreditation of oral health programs will also ensure they are current and relevant. n Rant! Is supplied by an independent contributor and is not an expression of the views of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia.

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Enhancing clinical practice through research

he realities of daily practice, combined with the fiscal constraints of running a viable business can be challenging, and often prohibit the implementation of new techniques or protocols that are proposed by research outcomes.

Suggested remedies have included more participatory research, such as practicebased research networks, which is where eviDent fits in. The results from these networks are becoming; n more relevant; n more actionable; n more tailored, and; n are providing more immediate feedback to you, as practitioners as a whole, and particularly to those who participate in the research.

Dental Practice Based Research Networks (DPBRNs) present a fantastic opportunity for dental practitioners to develop a greater sense of professionalism through engagement in research activities, with the collaboration of peers.

Whilst traditional university or laboratory type research is still valid and essential, it has been reported that dentistry, like medicine, has a lag time of seventeen to twenty years before new technologies and/ or procedures are

incorporated into the mainstream of the profession.

The eviDent Foundation supports a research network that engages dental practitioners, and can change the practice of dentistry.

Being involved in clinical research offers a new dimension to clinical dentistry that most practitioners have not been exposed to. The melding of academic research and

“ It has been reported that dentistry, like medicine, has a lag time of seventeen to twenty years before new technologies and/ or procedures are incorporated.” dental practice; of academic researchers and dental practitioners, is one of eviDent’s most inspiring aspects.

Research becomes more valid when the direction of that research is steered by those who will directly use the results. It is essential to keep evidence-based health care a mainstay for improving community well-being.

Dental practitioners spend the majority

of their professional lives in a constant battle with dental and oral diseases. The majority of their treatment regimes rely upon evidence based learning through research. Mostly this research is carried out within academic institutions and the like. eviDent is able to help its network members, and the wider profession, find out what happens in the real world with uncontrolled variables and constant chaos to improve the outcomes for patients.

To optimise dental health outcomes, dental practitioners really can’t have practice without research. This is the crux of dental practice. If practitioners do not learn from their clinical experiences, apart from losing our most valuable resource, dentistry will remain a stagnant profession.

Research under the auspices of eviDent contributes to the body of evidence for clinical decision-making, and enables practitioners to respond to, or translate, the clinical outcomes that you are faced with on a daily basis.

To find out more about how to become involved; to submit a project idea; to find out about our research findings, visit www. evident.org.au n Meaghan Quinn, Operations Manager, Australian Dental Association Victorian Branch Inc

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FAB

DHAA Symposium 2018 is only a few weeks away and there are now FIVE additional workshops to choose from, plus with the tropical themed Gala Dinner it really is time to get excited!

Story by Leonie Brown

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he DHAA national event for all oral health professionals kicks-off in just over a month and the great news is that there’s still time to register.

Come to Cairns Convention Centre from 1820 October and be inspired by presentations from wellrespected, national and international speakers, discover the latest innovations at the two-and-a-half-day trade exhibition, and catch up on the latest research projects in an array of poster presentations, before partying at the infamous Gala Dinner.

If maximum CPD hours is the aim of your game then you can amass up to 21.75 CPD hours throughout the symposium.

Simply add-on a couple of workshops and attend the optional lunchtime sessions on Friday and Saturday.

If you are interested in a particular subject but prefer hands-on learning, in a smaller group, with the ability to ask questions and try things yourself, then these workshop options are perfect for you!

The DHAA is all about community, networking and having fun with friends and colleagues. With an iconic destination such as tropical Far North Queensland you couldn’t ask for a better setting. The gala dinner on the Friday night is being held walking distance from the convention centre at the stunning heritage listed Cairns Cruise Liner Terminal.

Included is a three-course locally inspired dinner, hours of free-flowing beverages, live music and more entertainment.

Don’t worry- with just over a month until symposium you can still add on a workshop and/or gala dinner ticket to your registration. Just email dhaasymposium2018@arinex.com.au and they will make it happen for you. n

1 2 3 4 5

Five great workshop options LA Refresher

4pm | Wednesday 17 October 2 CPD hours READ MORE...

Cost: $40

Ergonomics and Wellness in the Clinic Thursday 18 October 3 CPD hours Cost: $225

READ MORE...

Pt 1: The Mouth and Body Connection Pt 2: Whitening Sponsored by Phillips 9am | Thursday 18 October Pt 1: 2 CPD hours Pt 2: 3 CPD hours READ MORE...

Cost: Free

Pilates Class

9am | Thursday 18 October 1.5 CPD hours Cost: $55 READ MORE...

Delivering Clinical Excellence

Sponsored by Maven Dental 9am | Thursday 18 October 2 CPD hours READ MORE...

Cost: Free

There are still spaces available for DHAA Symposium 2018.

Head over to dhaasymposium2018.com.au for all the details

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“ I f maximum CPD hours is the aim of your game then you can receive up to 21.75 CPD hours throughout the symposium”

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The Art of Communication

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o matter how accurate we believe we are being we cannot represent the world accurately to ourselves.

Have you ever had a misunderstanding or a miscommunication? An instance when you were sure that you had fully explained your meaning, a time when you thought both parties were on the same page, only to hear them say later: “Well that’s not what I understood it to be.”

How can this happen and how can we improve our communication and understanding? Do we perceive reality or do we perceive our version of reality?

We can only ever represent the world to ourselves based on our own maps of reality, rather than reality itself.

Alfred Korzybski was a Polish-American scientist and philosopher who said that human knowledge of the world is limited both by the human nervous system and the languages humans have developed, and thus no one can have direct access to reality, given that the most we can know is that which is filtered through the brain’s responses to reality. “The map is not the territory.”

Your map of the world will be unique to your values, attitudes, beliefs, experiences and stories. No two maps are the same and even when we think we are on the ‘same page’ as

someone we are still talking about our own unique map.

When we accept that everyone is walking around with their own maps, filtered through their own beliefs, values, experiences, is it any wonder we have trouble communicating.

This goes to demonstrate the importance of clarity, if we are to communicate effectively.

“ There are around two million bits of information coming at us every second (bps) yet our brains are only capable of processing 134bps” We cannot make assumptions about what another person believes simply because of what we believe. We cannot assume someone likes or wants something simply because we do.

Removing assumptions when communicating with others – be it our patients, our work team, our families or friends – is about respecting their own personal map of the world and being curious enough to explore it and seek clarity.

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Understanding others and being understood are critical factors if we are to communicate effectively. We look at how and why it can sometimes go wrong.

Story by Lyn Carman

There are around two million bits of information coming at us every second (bps) yet our brains are only capable of processing 134bps, or seven plus or minus two chunks of information. This means we are constantly deleting, distorting and generalising this information so that we can allow in what we consider relevant, and leave out what we consider irrelevant. What we allow in and leave out depends on our own map of the world.

Everyone of us is doing this, all of the time. We can’t possibly filter everything or we would be unable to function. Our brains would be overwhelmed by the amount of information coming at our senses. So, we filter the information to protect ourselves from overload, however, sometimes what we allow in is what we need to hear and not what is meant.

For example, if we believe the world is a harsh place and all people are mean, we will delete any evidence of kindness as irrelevant or ‘not really counting’ and we will distort kindness as; ‘they didn’t really mean it,’ or; ’they were just saying that,’ or even; ‘they want something from me,’ and we will generalise evidence of hurt as ’all people are like that.’

In this example we have filtered the information to support our belief, but what if we changed to believe that people are kind and compassionate and have good intentions? Do you

think it would change how we experience our world? Do you think it would alter our map?

In this instance we would delete evidence of people not being kind, or distort acts of unkindness to; ‘that’s not like them,’ or; ‘they must be having a bad day,‘ or; ‘maybe they didn’t know what they said;‘ and subsequently we would generalise an act of kindness to be evidence that they are always kind.

Do you see how powerful this theme can be in your life and in your role as a health professional?

In the words of Steven Covey: “Seek first to understand and then to be understood.”

All too often we jump into communication with only our limited map in view, not taking the time to explore another person’s map, and making assumptions that their map is the same as ours.

Taking the time to notice what we may have deleted, distorted or generalised to suit our map of reality, and becoming aware of the richness of integrating another individual’s beliefs, viewpoints, attitudes, actions and choices, will help us to “understand and then to be understood.”

Our understanding, learnings, beliefs and everything else we have gathered, can become a part of the journey ahead with an ever-expanding map of reality. n

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There’s an accident in the workplace...

Are you covered?

Understanding when you do and when you don’t need public liability insurance

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D

o you work as a subcontractor or volunteer outside of your workplace?

Public Liability Insurance, which is commonly referred to as “slip and fall” coverage, is important if you ever operate outside of a dental clinic.

Picture this: You are working as a subcontractor and place a sign in the lobby of the clinic. You forget to tuck in the stand at the bottom and a patient trips and falls, breaking their arm. The patient may

“ It is highly recommended that, as a subcontractor, you carry your own public liability insurance.” look to hold you responsible for her injury.

If you were a full-time employee, you’d be covered by the clinic’s public liability, however in many cases this coverage excludes sub-contractors, meaning their insurance would not cover you in this instance.

There is also a potential for a Cross Liability Exclusion. This exclusion means that two parties insured under the same policy can’t be covered in a dispute against each other. If there is a public liability incident, and there is a dispute over who is responsible, the coverage may not extend to you.

It’s important to remember that the clinic policy is in place to protect the clinic.

For this reason, it is highly recommended that, as a sub-contractor, you carry your own public liability insurance.

Another scenario where you may require public liability insurance is when you are acting as a volunteer or outside of your normal duties, particularly of your own accord. There are a few scenarios where you represent interests other than your own, for example, if you were to act on behalf of the DHAA or your employer. In these circumstances you would be covered by DHAA or by your workplace insurance. However, if a friend who is a teacher asks you to come to a school to talk to kids about dental health or to teach kids how to brush their teeth, or if you were volunteering in any other capacity, neither the DHAA policy nor your workplace policy would provide

cover for public liability.

In these circumstances, for your work relating to actual clinical advice and procedures, your DHAA Professional Indemnity Insurance will cover you, but you will need your own public liability insurance. Often places like schools, malls, community centres and anywhere else you volunteer would ask for evidence of this.

Even if you are not directly asked to show evidence of coverage, it’s important to have public liability insurance, in case of an incident. In most cases, these venues would require $20,000,000 in public liability cover. n

Purchase Public Liability Insurance today DHAA members have access to $20M Public Liability Insurance, at a highly competitive annual rate of $60 that can be purchased within minutes at www. dhaa.bmsgroup.com.

For more information, or to apply over the phone, contact BMS on 1800-940 762 or email dhaa@bmsgroup.com

Where do you stand?

Your Situation

Covered?

Recommended Action

I only work in a clinical setting as an employee

✔

No need to purchase Public Liability Insurance

I work as a sub-contractor, but I carry my own public liability policy

✔

No need to purchase Public Liability Insurance

I perform volunteer work of my own accord for friends, family or community

✘

Recommended to purchase Public Liability Insurance

I work as a sub-contractor but don’t currently have public liability insurance

✘

Recommended to purchase Public Liability Insurance

Are you covered?

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THE FACES OF OUR FUTURE We catch up with some of the DHAA Student Leaders and find out what is driving them to succeed

A smile speaks every language Sanjay Sebastian MY NAME IS Sanjay Sebastian and I’m a 19-year-old boy that moved to Australia eight years ago with my family in search of a meaningful life. I was one of those teenagers that took time to realise the good things that always circled our lives, in my case, it was science. My childhood memories were being always surrounded by people who have a passion and has studied a science-related course. I have a dream to become an Oral Health Therapist. This is not only my dream but also my family’s. I do not wish to be the wealthiest and most highly-qualified oral

health therapist that the world’s ever seen, in fact, I’d rather be known an OHT who serves people that come to me to the best to my capabilities.

I was brought up watching the legend

Lionel Messi play soccer and so was set on pursuing the same career – a boy can dream! As every oral health student would say, I ‘loved science in school’ and enjoyed chemistry and learning about how atoms fuse together to create the very foundation that we step on. I admired the balance this course offered of getting to understand the people that come to see you, easing their worries, and eventually managing each stage of their treatment. I believe only a very few occupations can propose such an exclusive balance of holistic care.

I started at Latrobe in 2017 and from the very start, I have had a passion towards restorative dental procedures.

I enjoy being able to promptly see the result of my efforts and I know that

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“ I ’m grateful to say that I have some incredible teachers and peers accompanying me to be more assured and brave during the clinic.” Sanjay Sebastian restorative sessions offer exactly that.

As I’ve advanced through my course, I’ve started to love all the other areas of this field: orthodontics, periodontics, and pediatrics to mention a few. I believe it’s because I’m getting more exposure to the different facets of Oral Health Science (OHS) and constructing my experience, whilst enjoying this life at my university.

I’m proud and amazed to say that I’m enjoying every part of the course.

Undeniably when you do something for the first time you find it challenging, but then again, I’m grateful to say I have some incredible teachers and peers accompanying me to be more assured and brave during the clinic, easing almost all challenges. I deem that the standard of Oral Health Science at Latrobe is second to none; there’s a reason why it’s seen as one of the most respected dental institutions in Australia.

When I started at Latrobe I wasn’t too excited in joining BOHDS (Bendigo Oral Health & Dentistry Society) but during my first year, I saw how energetic the whole club was, which obliterated my mistaken opinion of them. Without a second thought I decided to put my name down as a member and now I ‘m proud to say that I’m an active member for BOHDS. I will graduate in 2019 and my current plan is to study another course very much in relation to Oral Health Science.

My long-term dreams include opening a homely practice of my own, learning to drive a manual car and settling down in a

small town to have a family of my own.

Outside of my course I love sports and keeping myself fit both mentally and physically. I play soccer as it is my favourite sport and because it’s just a beautiful way to get my mind of teeth! I feel being able to balance the commitments that are made, builds character and develops skills to become a better individual. Therefore, as also a student leader of Latrobe University, I uphold the responsibility to strive and change my community for the better, by starting at Latrobe and spreading kindness through a simple act of smile!

Innovation at the University of Newcastle Madie Tozer THE ORAL HEALTH students of the University of Newcastle (UoN) are benefitting from a revolutionary new method of learning how to administer local anaesthetic. UoN simulation coordinator and lecturer Denise Higgins has developed a new local anaesthetic simulation model or mannequin.

The first of its kind, the model is able to be injected multiple times with soft tissue that is eerily life-like and anatomically correct. The model which is affectionately named Oswald, is fitted with structures including the coronoid notch and pterygomandibular raphe as

Meet Oswald, the eerily life-like local anaesthetic mannequin at the University of Newcastle

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The Little Kids Dental Project aims to support children in the remote communities of Thailand

“ Virtual simulations are a stark contrast from old training methods and these changes are here to stay” Mark Suniga well as other life-like soft tissues. Each Oswald differs slightly in its anatomy further simulating the realities of treating the general public.

This year, second year oral health students at UoN were able to inject local anaesthetic into the new models for the first time. Throughout this simulation workshop, students were able to administer IAN blocks, long buccals, infiltrations, interdentals as well as palatal injections.

This new simulation model gave students a rare opportunity to practice local anaesthetic techniques in a safe, controlled environment before venturing into the clinical environment. This simulation not only builds the skill of the learning clinician but encourages a level of confidence that would not have otherwise been established.

As a student, the experience was truly unique and prepared me for anaesthetising my first patient.

After completing the simulation, I felt competent and confident in my clinical skill. This not only benefitted me, but my patient who received the treatment.

UoN offer such a rich and diverse learning experience which allows each student to discover which learning style suits them. I feel incredibly honoured to have learnt such an imperative skill in such an effective way. It is a real testament to the lecturers pushing the boundaries of conventional methods of learning.

Aiming to make a difference in rural communities Nateenee Langsanam HAVING GROWN UP partially in Thailand and partially in Perth, WA, my dream career focus has always been to work in rural areas or in developing countries.

This desire has stemmed from my experience witnessing first-hand the hardship that people have to deal with living in these areas.

I have travelled and lived in many places in central Europe. I chose to come back to live in Perth to study. Perth is a growing city with a lot to offer and it’s growing bigger by the minute.

Studying and working back in Perth has given me great opportunities and exposure to the dentistry world. I work

for Dental Health Services (DHS) as a dental assistant and am currently studying oral health therapy at Curtin University.

Through my work with DHS, I have learned of a project named “The Little Kids Dental Project”. This is a research project funded by the National Health and Medical Research Council with support from DHS, Colgate Oral Care, the WA Country Health Service, and the Aboriginal Medical Services in the Kimberley. The project is being led by Dr Peter Arrow from DHS along with researchers from the University of Adelaide, Deakin University, Murdoch University, Flinders University, Queensland University of Technology, University of Western Australia, Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services and the office of the Chief Dental Officer.

The project is looking at how best to treat dental decay in young children, especially in the more remote communities. It’s looking at ways of treating decayed teeth in young children without having an injection or the dental drill. It’s trying to make having dental treatment as less stress-free as possible for little kids so that they don’t have to have dental treatment under general anaesthetic. The treatment, using the Atraumatic Restorative Treatment (ART) approach mainly uses hand instruments to clean the decay out of the tooth and a plastic filling is then placed in the prepared tooth cavity.

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The imprsssive array of $90k haptic training chairs at the University of Melbourne

The project also aims to reduce/ alleviate fear and anxiety of dental treatments for children and their parents. The project also includes oral health promotion within the community.

The project is based in the Kimberley region of WA and the project team has engaged extensively with the local communities in the region and 26 remote communities have agreed to participate in the project. There is a Facebook page for anyone who is interested in following.

I believe this is fantastic work for the rural areas, especially so in WA as the rural communities are a long way from the rest of the country.

I wish Dr. Arrow and the team all the best with the project in the future. I aspire to one day be able to follow in his footsteps and help in the communities that are in need in the way that this project is aiming to make a difference to our communities in WA.

duty is to promote the importance of dental hygiene and dental care amongst our disabled community. Disability amongst children or elders may differ in relation to oral health education and promotion, thus developing a plan for a target group is important for success.

By addressing common dental issues for the elderly, such as; how to clean dentures, how to use an electric tooth brush, the importance of interdental brushes and what is periodontal disease.

Whereas for children it may consist of; the purpose of teeth, how to use a tooth brush, dental caries and the importance of oral health. Oral health education is not limited as it may involve a team of many health practitioners and carers in order to provide the best quality of life to the individual. So remember ‘Be the help to a friend, neighbour or relative’.

One student’s perspective on disability and oral health

Drilling a new pathway for education with a virtual handpiece and mirror

Melanie Haddad

Mark Suniga

BE THE HELP to a friend, neighbour or relative. Oral health for any person living with a disability is an important part in maintaining an individual’s overall health. As oral health practitioners our

THERE ARE NO free chairs in the clinic.

The pre-clinical lab has been booked.

All of the week’s lectures have been presented. Most of Oral Health curricula has been confined to these three

methods of teaching. However, The University of Melbourne has opened a new virtual pathway for its students.

With 20 haptic training chairs (each costing approximately $90,000), they boast the highest number of any institution in all of Oceania, and they are looking to purchase more. Consisting of a 3D monitor, a hand piece and a mirror handle; it is designed as a transition from pre-clinic to clinic. Haptics technology allows students to feel real resistance cutting into virtual teeth. These chairs give the opportunity to chase caries in realistic positions and angles that preclinical contortionist dummies cannot simulate. Taking this one step further, the university is beginning to implement new technology that allows students to scan a patient’s carious tooth, transfer the scan into the virtual system and practice the future restorative procedure as many times as they would like before the day of the real appointment. The fact that the system is computerised means assessment can be objective and fast, with teachers and students being able to track progress and current skill level easily.

This creates some friendly competition between dental school students who enjoy comparing their high scores.

These virtual simulations are a stark contrast from old training methods and these changes are here to stay. With many more incoming, do you think oral health education is taking a step in the right direction? n

26

Different Strokes

Need a new challenge within the oral health industry?

The Bulletin speaks to oral health professionals that have chosen to step outside their comfort-zone Story by Margaret Galvin

ARE THERE ANY employment options for the oral health professional who wants to cut back on, or completely leave, chairside practice? I decided to ask around and see what my colleagues are up to when not practising chairside.

I spoke to a number of oral health practitioners who have succeeded in fields that have less to do with chairside practice, and more to do with helping individuals reach goals, promoting oral health on a grand scale, running a business, educating, and/or research.

These are the stories of some that have taken their hygiene skills and expanded them through extra study, networking, and, dare I say it, blood, sweat, and tears.

Lyn’s Story After purchasing her own practice, Lyn thrived on the challenge of running a business and leading people. This new field became a passion. Lyn explained: “I loved watching others grow in their areas and develop new ones, therefore bringing out the best that people have to offer and encouraging others to stretch and grow and build their confidence.”

She embarked on a journey to expand her horizons by completing a three-year course with The Coaching Institute and working with her mentor, Sharon Pearson. Today, as well as working chairside, Lyn is also a professional leadership and personal coach/speaker

and facilitator. She is an accredited Edisc Behavioural profiler and accredited Meta Dynamics™ Level 1 and 2, and Professional Trainer.

These new skills allow her the opportunity to be more flexible with her hours, work with more autonomy, and to follow her path. It has enabled her to work with different groups outside of dentistry, and to coach and support individuals outside of their own personal oral health.

Jo’s Story Jo ceased practicing chairside two years ago, and is now the Oral Health Policy Analyst, Priority Populations, at NSW Health. She had reached a point in her career where she wanted to make more of a difference to the oral health of vulnerable people in her community and the wider NSW region.

A combination of completing a Masters in Health (Health Promotion), researching for her PhD, and general networking, meant that Jo was able to follow her dream to have an impact on the oral health of a vulnerable community.

Although there have been some hurdles, such as being rejected for various employment opportunities, she has found networking at conferences, talking about her interests, and attending meetings, have all helped her to earn a position that allows her to follow her passion.

Amber’s Story I first came across Amber on social media where she was discussing environmentally friendly floss options, and bamboo toothbrushes.

In addition to practising chairside three days-a-week, Amber also runs an online eco-friendly business selling bamboo toothbrushes wholesale to dental surgeries.

After having children, the awareness of how much singleuse plastic she and her family were consuming was a growing concern for her.

Reducing this has now become her passion, and she is currently developing a biodegradable dental floss with eco-friendly packaging, and looking into reusable alternatives to single-use consumables for dental practices.

Amber found that making lists, crossing them off slowly, and doing little bits at a time allowed her to successfully follow this new eco-friendly business path. Using the internet for designing websites and packaging solutions has also been a boon in Amber’s new field.

Warrick’s Story Owning and running a business can present challenges. Entering the market as a fledgling company, gaining the trust of customers with your product, and proving the nay-sayers wrong are all challenges that business owners face, such as fellow hygienist Warrick.

Warrick practises chairside, runs an online training business in conjunction with a registered training

27 organisation, and also owns and manages a cosmetic skin clinic.

To get where he is today, amongst other things, he attended a dento-facial course, spent time observing surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, and completed a post-graduate dermal course – he has also held various roles in the dental field since the age of sixteen!

He has some sage advice to those who may fancy entering a new field: “Research market trends, research if it’s a ‘one hit wonder’, and ensure that you have support from family and friends – because it will be a bumpy ride.”

“The most important piece of advice I could give, is to not do something just because someone else is doing it. People really need to think about their choices before taking on new skill sets as this may not be the right choice for them.”

Tabitha’s Story Tabitha works clinically four daysa-week, is a clinical dental educator for Electro Medical Systems - Dental (EMS), and lectures on implant maintenance protocols.

She was initially approached by EMS to start working for them as an educator.

Since then she has been approached by other companies and organisations to speak for them as well.

Tabitha has found that being an educator has improved her clinical skills as she is always striving to learn more and be up-to-date on the latest evidence-based dentistry. This allows her to present the latest information and provide patients with the best outcomes.

She admits that there were a few hurdles to overcome when first starting in this field. A fear of public speaking, and a self-doubt as to whether people would want to listen to what was being said. She found, however, that being passionate about what she does, believing in what she is saying,

and having a positive and supportive employer have all contributed to the success she has achieved.

Leonie’s Story After ten years practising as a hygienist, Leonie decided it was time for a change.

These days she is a product specialist with GC Australasia and travels to dental surgeries offering solutions for the various concerns and requirements of clinicians.

Leonie has also had

patient interaction.

She also realised how hard she had worked to obtain her BOH and has now withdrawn from her PhD research to practise chairside again.

Other factors contributing to her withdrawal from her PhD include the cutthroat nature of research coupled with not knowing the various supervisors

“There are multiple opportunities once you decide to cut back on chairside practice” the opportunity to provide education and training to universities and public clinics. She has found her university degree and her background in clinical practice have given her a solid scientific understanding of her products, an understanding of the day-to-day running of a dental practice, as well as an appreciation of the different requirements of individual clinicians.

If someone wanted to enter a similar field, Leonie recommends: “Make sure the company has the same philosophy as you do.” Research the company you wish to work with to ensure it is a good ‘fit.’

Erin’s Story I first met Erin when she was in second year of her Bachelor of Oral Health (BOH). After graduating, Erin worked in a practice for six months, but unfortunately had a negative experience. It was this that caused her to branch out into the research field.

Erin took a year’s break from practising to complete an honours degree, and to begin her PhD. During this break, she trained and qualified to be a phlebotomist for research purposes. However, after a while, she found that she was missing

well enough to ascertain if they would be compatible as researchers.

Erin recommends getting to know your supervisors well before beginning research with them, being prepared for the extremely competitive nature of applying for grants, and know that job security in research is sometimes limited.

As it turns out, there are multiple employment opportunities once you decide to either cut back , or completely cease, hygiene chairside practice.

Speaking with this small cross-section of colleagues has demonstrated that if you have an idea, and the passion to pursue that idea, you can achieve a lot post clinical practice. There will sometimes be nay-sayers who call you an over-achiever, or your self-doubt may get the better of you, but in the words of Tony A. Gaskins Jr (and kindly shared with me by Lyn): “If you don’t build your dream someone will hire you to help build theirs.”

Thank you to Lyn, Jo, Amber, Warrick, Tabitha, Leonie, and Erin for taking the time to share their passion and knowledge. I wish them all the best in their respective fields. n

28 T Y SPIRI T I N U M COM

VIETNAM Aileen Lewis makes her second trip to The Land of Blue Dragon to do battle with some shocking cases of tooth decay and come back home feeling satisfied that she had volunteered for good

Shocking decay is prevalent in these povertystricken communities but Aileen made sure all the kids got their fix of oral hygiene instruction

FOR THE LAST two years I have volunteered to work in Vietnam as a clinician, providing restorative and preventative treatment to children aged 3-18 years and preventative oral hygiene for communities.

In March 2016 Rotary Victoria asked me to join a team of three dentists, three fifth year dental students from La Trobe, Adelaide and Melbourne Universities and three dental clinic assistants.

We arrived in Ho Chi Minh City and proceeded to a small township of Tan Chaû in the Mekong Delta on the Cambodian border.

For two weeks we spent each day, from 7 until 5, fissure sealing almost every permanent molar and premolars, and triaged for restorative work where possible. Teeth indicated for extraction

were referred to the local dentist and children had these removed with local.

Rotary adopt the ART procedure and try to avoid being invasive where possible. Large carious lesions were restored conventionally and children overall were very cooperative.

My highlight was seeing the bus-load of children arrive and the time inbetween triage when I would gather the group of 20-30 kids to give oral hygiene instruction and diet talks with the help of a translator.

We took on three schools armed with our trusty demonstration teeth, Colgate brushes and toothpaste, disclosing tablets and mirrors. Every day we saw at least 30 children in the morning and another 30 in the afternoon, so the two weeks went by very fast.

As one can imagine the general health of children’s teeth was very poor – a diet of sugar cane (chewed on the way to school) and sugary drinks, hasn’t helped.

Rotary fund the schools in the Tan Chaû district to get their daily fluoride rinses, brushes and toothpaste. Gingivitis and perio problems are prevalent in older children and their custom of brushing before they eat breakfast is hard for them to change. Sadly, children go to school with rice and glutenous foods stuck to their teeth and shops tempting them with sweets, fizzy drinks and chips line the streets on the way to school.

This was discussed with the Director “School Principal” and he agreed it is something they would like to address.

However, with old habits and severe poverty in the area, people will consider

29 this a threat to their business, and many suggestions from Rotarians have fallen on deaf ears.

So last July my husband Steve and I joined the Christian Health Aid Team (CHAT) and spent one week in the northern rural area of Dong Xoi, about five hours north West of Ho Chi Minh.

Two qualified dentists, two final year UWA students, one therapist/hygienist (me), one dental nurse, three translators, one Australian general practitioner and maintenance man (my husband).

A very different experience indeed!

Every day was in a new location where Steve and Aaron, the head dentist, would check out the best place to set up for the day. Either on the verandah out in the open, in a Red Cross hall or Community Centre, or under tarpaulins out on the bare ground. It reminded me of the dental practice days of the Kimberley’s that I saw in an old 1960’s movie!

Triaging all morning, most of the children I saw needed full clearances.

Every tooth had moderate to severe caries and one child in particular was a severe case. She was my patient.

I’ll never forget her eyes that bulged forwards from the abscesses draining from her upper deciduous incisors – all black stumps. I’ve seen a lot in my 35-year dental career, but nothing prepared me for this. The GP and head dentist both agreed that they needed to be removed ASAP otherwise encephalitis would ensue and put the child in grave danger.

Each day was a repeat of the last. More abscessed teeth – permanent more-so than deciduous. With no fluoride rinsing program here we were basically providing an extraction service. I’ve never given so many blocks and infiltrations in five days, or extracted so many teeth in one day like I did on that trip!

My husband Steve, did an amazing job getting the generator, compressor and suction machines (these units were oldschool dental models that I recognised from my early training days!). He was also delegated the position of ‘head steri nurse’ minus the skirt, and boy did he

step-up to the challenge! I gave him a crash course in cross infection, scrubbing instruments and bagging, while the dental assistant taught him autoclave operation and set-ups. In the end he said he’d never seen such big roots on teeth!

In the beginning the students were tentative, but after the second day it was so encouraging to see them become self-assured and really getting into their clinical roles. They were magnificent with the kids and oral hygiene instruction and both said that after their CHAT experiences they wanted to go into paediatrics.

Once the children had their treatment the whole family received a knitted teddy from the church ladies and an oral hygiene pack. One family had grandma, mum and three kids riding away on one motorbike, with all of the kids waving their teddies at us with gauze in their mouths, and most with half smiles from their local anaesthetic.

I would truly encourage anyone who is contemplating volunteering in any capacity to do so whenever their finances permit. As a volunteer with both organisations I had to pay for all my flights, insurance and visa applications.

While lodgings and the night-time meal were paid for, it is not a cheap exercise to volunteer; but for me the expense was irrelevant as I was giving back to communities that do not ordinarily get dental treatment or the opportunity for oral health education.

It is a huge task, and one I cannot see getting any reprieve if the Vietnamese community do not change their dietary habits of western high-sugar drinks and sticky items like condensed milk.

This year I will be travelling to Mongolia in June/July to join my friend Jilly who works at Outreach Mission with Reverend Leonard Katayli in Ulan Bator in a school and orphanage. There my school teacher sister and I will be helping out, and yes I will be taking my trusty demo tooth models, toothbrushes and more teddies with me, but more on that adventure another time! n

Sun Smiles program chosen as Australia’s IFDH Social Responsibility Program THE CAREVAN FOUNDATION Sun Smiles Program was chosen by the DHAA to represent Australia as part of the International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) Social Responsibility Global Oral Health Strategy.

Twenty IFDH member countries were involved in the inaugural Social Responsibility Conference in Florence in 2017. In early 2018, nominated programs from member countries prepared and submitted detailed IFDH Project Action Plans and received IFDH seed-funding for their chosen program.

The Sun Smiles program was rolledout over two days at Homebush West Public School, NSW, with 568 children enrolled in the oral health promotion and fluoride varnish program.

Homebush West is a culturally diverse school, with students from kindergarten to grade 6.97% of students are from non-English speaking backgrounds and 3% English speaking. Twenty-one languages and cultures are represented including Chinese, Korean, Sri Lankan, Indian, and Arabic.

Robyn Watson, IFDH President, visited the school with a delegation of Japanese dentistry students. Dr Sue Cartwright, Colgate Scientific Affairs Manager, also attended the program.

It was a great way to see the program in action and share the experiences of all those involved, including the school children, teachers, The University of Sydney BOH students and the Sun Smiles Team, including Program Manager and DHAA member, Cathryn Carboon.

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

NATION STATE ACT

DHAA ACT members have had plenty reason to smile

DHAA ACT turning on the style

“ Topics covered included implant maintenance, motivational tools for patients to improve their oral hygiene, sleep apnea and the sugary sweet beverages tax, all of which had the delegates’ undivided attention.”

THE ACT STARTED off the second half of 2018 with a full day ‘Risky Business’ event on the 23 June.

I would like to thank the ACT CPD committee for ensuring everyone had a great day whilst I was away.

Kathryn Novak for filling in as host, Dahlia Kruyer for writing the following event report and Susie Melrose for taking photos.

On 4 August the ACT teamed up with NSW for a full-day event at the Novotel Lake Crackenback, which I had the pleasure of hosting. I would like to acknowledge and thank Jacquie Biggar, NSW Chair, for all her hard work in putting this event together. It was a beautiful location and

a fantastic program with presentations from Tabitha Acret, Ian Epondulan and Sahil Bareja. The topics covered included implant maintenance, motivational tools for patients to improve their oral hygiene, sleep apnea and the sugary sweet beverages tax, all of which had the delegates’ undivided attention.

Please mark your diaries for Thursday 4 October, when we will be hosting one of our very popular dinner meetings at the Mantra MacArthur on Northbourne Avenue in Turner.

Our guest speaker for the evening will be Oral Pathologist Professor Jane Dahlstrom, who will be presenting two interesting

lectures; ‘Human Papilloma virus infection and head and neck cancers’ and ‘Pigmented lesions in the oral cavity.’

I look forward to seeing you there.

Madellyn Kennedy ACT State Chair

Risky Business Report by Dahlia Kruyer

NOT EVEN A chilly, subzero morning could keep our enthusiastic hygienists from braving the frost and heading to the QT Hotel for the ‘Risky Business‘ PD Day on Saturday 23 June.

We kicked-off with Shamus Breen from BMS who spoke to us about the indemnity insurance policy and how we can all reduce risk.

31 For all the latest info on DHAA events near you please visit www.dhaa.info/events

Lenore Tuckerman from Colgate spoke about the new site, which is a quick and easy way for dental health professionals to order the Bright Smiles, Bright Future kits for school presentations.

See the new site for yourself at intodent.com.au She also touched on the oral care recycling program being run by Colgate and TerraCycle that provides the opportunity for practices and local schools to engage in sustainability.

Used toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, floss containers etc can all be recycled. They can be dropped off at your work and then you can donate the money exchanged to a nominated charity or dental program. Go to terracycle. com.au for more details.

Ms Sam Kelly from ACT Health spoke about infection control in the dental practice and then Associate Prof.

Janet Wallace presented on ‘Scope of Practice - the procedures, the actions, the processes.‘ Referring back to Shamus Breen’s earlier presentation, she talked about being aware of, and practicing within, your limitations. She also highlighted what you should do if you get a complaint made against you. To sum

up her advice she said: “If in doubt, don’t.”

Lunchtime was another opportunity to check out the trade offerings with reps from Colgate, Henry Shein, Oral B and GSK, all of whom were our fabulous event sponsors along with BMS. The ever-inspirational Cathryn Carboon then spoke to us about the history and importance of fluoride and the fluoride varnish Sun Smiles Program.

After a scrumptious afternoon tea we had a very lively presentation from Annie Gregg, ‘Communicate or Crash,‘ that focused on how to influence others and increase a good rapport with patients.

She wrapped up the day by giving us all a fun activity.

We divided into groups based on whether we were task or people oriented, and then whether we were outgoing or more reserved.

Annie went on to describe what our roles we would be best-suited to given our DISC profile – Dominant, Inspiring, Supportive, Cautious – and what character traits each DISC group had.

From this understanding we can look at how people have different values and priorities, and how we can treat them accordingly.

Northern Territory

“ While I am passionate about volunteering for the DHAA it would be great to have some help and input on a local level.”

The position of chair remains empty in the NT and I am currently fulfilling both the role of director and chair.

While I am passionate about volunteering for the DHAA it would be great to have some help and input on a local level. If you would like to help out locally so that we can continue the provision of local CPD in the NT please contact me at vicepresident@dhaa.info I have been busy behind the scenes organising some local CPD with our first event to be held in September in Alice Springs. Next year we will be having a GC surface protection handson workshop along with an advanced instrumentation workshop and a full-day CPD again in June.

Our next event will be the joint study club with the ADA NT in October and I hope to see many of you there.

Tabitha Acret Vice-President DHAA Ltd

Where’s my Tassie report?

DUE TO THE fact that Tasmania currently does not have representative at either national or state level there is sadly no state report for this issue.

If you are interested in representing the state of Tasmania as state chair please contact the DHAA CEO at ceo@dhaa.info

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Queensland

“ Despite the frosty start to the morning , our ’Risky Business’ full-day CPD event was a sellout success. ”

WINTER HAS SEEN many wonderful events held here in sunny Brisbane.

Despite the frosty start to the morning , our ’Risky Business’ full-day CPD event was a sell-out success. It was filled with anticipation of hearing our speaker line-up of Professor Laurie Walsh, Dr Melanie Hayes, Dr Carol Tran, John Cotterill and Jenny Morgan.

Speakers covered a variety of topics ranging from infection control, periodontal classification, and career development, as well as a detailed discussion on insurance and industryrelated community programs.

Special thanks to Colgate, GSK and Oral B for their generous sponsorship.

Our Subgingival and Advanced Debridement Hands-on Workshop was another sought after and sold out event. This was a review of periodontal assessment incorporating

Two very well-attended events for the good people of sunny Queensland

33 For all the latest info on DHAA events near you please visit www.dhaa.info/events

New South Wales

basic ergonomics, techniques and instrument choices in the management and treatment of more advanced cases.

Again a big thank you to Hu-Friedy and Jane Rossi on their well organised event .

Please be aware that these events sell out quickly and we have more on the horizon for 2019.

Later this year, we will be hosting the DHAA Symposium 2018 in Cairns. ’Talking Teeth by the Reef’ is a three-day event featuring a maximum of 21.75 CPD hours as well as the Gala dinner, trade displays and the truly spectacular scenery of Far North Queensland – an event not to be missed. Find out all the details here.

Aneta Zielinski Queensland State Chair

“ At our annual CPD day in Sydney we sponsored ‘Love Your Sister’ and raised $1660 for cancer research!.”

DHAA NSW HAS been very busy with CPD in the past few months.

We had a joint venture with ACT in the snow as we celebrated our own members with presentations by Tabitha Acret, Sahil Bareja and Ian Epondulan.

At our annual CPD day in Sydney we sponsored ‘Love Your Sister’ and raised $1660 for cancer research! We also gave away thousands of dollars-worth of donated gifts and had over 30 lucky winners with a few winning more than one prize!

The professional development was some of the best, not only scientific clinical-based learning but also holistic management of the mentally ill patient, trauma management and professional identity.

I confidently believe

that everybody attending walked away with things that they will implement in practice!

Next up on the calendar is Wollongong. A breakfast meeting down south will conclude our NSW state CPD for 2018, but we eagerly look forward to the DHAA Symposium 2018 in Cairns and an exciting full-day Bali event in the latter months of the year! Check out eventbrite for details.

I wanted to take this opportunity to thank the NSW committee because they are awesome! We have really found our groove and I love the support and professionalism that comes from such a great team.

Gratitude shout out! You know who you are.

Jacqueline Biggar NSW State Chair

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Western Australia

“ The stall that DHAA holds, provides information for parents, interactive play for children, and gives our OHT students a great opportunity to volunteer and have the experience on their resumes.”

WHAT AN AMAZING week WA has had for the collaborative Dental Health Week with the three Western Australian Associations ADA, DHAA and ADOHTA! Three residential aged care facilities, two homeless agencies (Uniting Care West and RUAH), Westfield Shopping Centres and KEMH were the focus to impart information on access to dental care, care of dentures, oral hygiene, diet and general information that the community asked our volunteers.

At the recent State Oral Advisory Council meeting, the DHAA were complimented on our cohesiveness and dedication to the community.

A huge thank you to Lenore Tuckerman and Colgate for supplying all the toothbrushes and toothpaste and to Wrigleys for supplying sugarfree gum, Dental Health Services for their resource display, toothbrushing models and aged care oral hygiene aids.

We had an overwhelming response from volunteers!

Curtin University OHT students and student rep Nateenee Langasam, dental assistant students, DHAA members and

DHAA WA have been busy learning and spreading the good news of dental hygiene

hygienists, Jocelyn Ho and Karen Feely, ADOHTA Past President Sandy O’Brien, ADA Andrea Andrys, Hellene Plattell ADOHTA and myself assisted. Yours truly even had her photo with two aged residents in the Federal Bulletin of the ADA! Once again the DHAA will be supporting the WA Children’s Week Family Fun Day on Sunday 21 October at Whiteman Park, Perth.

This day has always been very successful with many families attending. The stall that DHAA holds, provides information for parents, interactive play for children, and gives our OHT students

a great opportunity to volunteer and have the experience on their resumes.

The full day conference at The Pagoda Resort and Spa Perth on 20 July was a huge success with 93 attending and a wide variety of speakers. One attendee said: “It was an excellent day with highly relevant specialised speakers sharing new and very interesting information.

A day of timely upskilling our knowledge-base in great professional company. All ran smoothly and was very professionally executed from start to finish.”

Another commented: “A full day of fantastic and motivational speakers

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

Victoria

with topics including paediatric examinations with appropriate referrals, preventative dental care, orthodontics, common oral lesions, maintenance of implants and preventing peri-implantitis.”

We are looking for lastminute registrations for our next full-day CPD event as we are not yet at full capacity. ‘Risky Business’ on 15 September is worth 6 CPD hours and will have various topics of interest including; indemnity insurance; infection control; cyber safety; and carpal tunnel and RSI prevention.

Plus with the world being consumed with plastic

usage our ‘Sustainabiliy in the Dental Setting’ will be a very enlightening presentation and not to be missed. Find out more and how to register here.

Our end-of-year guest speakers and social function will be held on 17 November at The George, Perth.

Donna Lawrence, Clinical Psychologist with St Johns Ambulance WA will present ‘Mental Health for Dental Health’ and Clinical Trials Coordinator, Joanna Granich, will discuss ’Autism Spectrum Disorder with a Dental Lens’.

Come and join the committee, network with friends and colleagues, and then kick-on after with canapes and drinks at this fabulous venue in the heart of Perth. Find out more and how to register here.

Aileen Lewis Western Australia State Chair

“ Most of our volunteer team are heading to the DHAA Symposium 2018 in Cairns. We hope to catch up with everyone and enjoy all things hygienist!”

DHAA VICTORIA HAS been busy with events.

We had a fantastic ‘Christmas in July’ event in Mornington with a range of speakers. We learnt about forensic dentistry, personality types and then refreshed our knowledge on the link between diabetes and oral health; all toppedoff with a local region wine tasting – what a day!

We’re looking forward to our annual end-of-year event at Kooyong Tennis Club. Presentations about everyday hygiene practices, plus champagne – what a great way to celebrate the end of a busy year.

During Oral Health Week we ran oral cancer screening for the public at selected pharmacies and now the Vic team is busy organising a major event at La Trobe University. This will be informative, hands-on, and a great chance to network. Plus country members will find it convenient and city members look forward to a tax deductible weekend away.

Most of our volunteer team are heading to the DHAA Symposium 2018 in Cairns.

We hope to catch up with everyone and enjoy all things hygienist!

Sarah Laing Victoria State Chair

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South Australia

“ While we realise that we will never please everyone all of the time, we are aiming high, and will continue to listen to the feedback you offer.”

RECENTLY I HEARD this comment: “Many meaningless jobs have been created over the past 30 years; people spending their days responding to emails and writing endless reports that no one ever reads.”

This may be painfully true for many people and I reflect on how grateful we can feel that as oral health professionals we have a meaningful role. One that provides us with the ability to make a difference to peoples lives and give value to our patients and the community. I celebrate each and every one of you for the part you play every day, here’s to you!

Since our last State of the Nation report, we have been busy with events. The fabulous Adelaide Oval midyear dinner with Professor Mark Bartold attracted 109 attendees and was a fabulous evening, as always, in this iconic venue.

Professor Bartold shared the new, hot-off-the-press perio classifications straight from EuroPerio only days prior, and he also discussed the interrelationship of perio and systemic health. We thank Oral B who were our sponsors for the evening.

The Barossa Valley destination event at the

Novotel Barossa was a great Saturday with a line-up of terrific speakers who gave up their day for us.

John Cotterill from BMS presented about liability insurance. Hand therapist Suzanne Carigiannis shared her wealth of knowledge for our profession. We would love to hear Suzanne speak again and may consider a hands-on workshop in the future.

Prosthodontist, Dr Peter Hell, told us how we as clinicians can take a significant role in the health and life of an implant.

Peter Leske, senior winemaker from Revenir Winery, entertained us with his wit and deep wisdom about wine characteristics, and we thank him for supporting us with his wines and special prices for DHAA members. We also thank our sponsors Oral B and GSK. By the time you are reading this we will have had our full day CPD and national AGM at the Adelaide Town Hall. We are grateful for our sponsors; Oral B, Colgate, City Dental and 3M. I will file a report on this event in the next edition.

We have been privileged to have wonderful speakers share their knowledge and insights and are grateful for

the time and energy they offer for DHAA events. It has been fabulous to catch up with many of our members at our events during the year and I look forward to seeing even more at others in the future.

This month I will be attending a national meeting with other state chairs to participate in training and planning for the years ahead. To help with planning, a survey has been sent out to all our members. Thank you to those who have completed it and good luck in the draw to win registration to a full CPD event in your state. If you haven’t yet filled-out the survey the here’s the link.

I always love to get feedback directly from members. So, if you have any suggestions, ideas for events,

37 For all the latest info on DHAA events near you please visit www.dhaa.info/events

The Adelaide Oval event was well attended and enjoyed by all

or how to add value to our membership, then please email me here. Also, if you would like to be involved in the organisation or on the committee then please email.

We are grateful to currently have three wonderful student members on our committee and appreciate their input

greatly. The SA have great fun providing high-quality, interesting, educational and meaningful events for you.

While we realise that we will never please everyone all of the time, we are aiming high, and will continue to listen to the feedback you offer.

For those heading to DHAA Symposium 2018 in

Cairns, 18-20 October, there is a fabulous programme on offer, not to mention an opportunity to catch-up with interstate colleagues and get some vitamin D! Our final event for the year will be our Christmas Brunch at The Highway in Plympton, with a presentation from Robert Ulivieri BOH BSc

(Dentistry) Honours, entitled ‘How we manage children – restoratively speaking!’

I leave you with a quote from the late, great Nelson Mandela: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.”

Lyn Carman South Australia State Chair

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DHAA Year Planner - 2018/19

The CPD Events calendar is filling up. Full details at www.dhaa.info/events

MONTH

DATE

EVENT

LOCATION

SEP ’18

15 Sep

DHAA NT: Infection control seminar

Doubletree by Hilton, Alice Springs

15 Sep

DHAA WA: ‘Risky Business’ roadshow

Pagoda Resort & Spa, Como

26 Sep

DHAA Webinar: Behaviour dynamics

Webinar

4 Oct

DHAA ACT: Dinner meeting “Oral Pathology”

Mantra MacArthur, Turner

4 Oct

DHAA NT & ADA NT: Combined Study Club

Darwin Sailing Club, Fannie Bay

18-20 Oct

DHAA Symposium 2018

Cairns Convention Centre

10 Nov

DHAA SA: Preparation for practice

Adina Apartment Hotel Adelaide Treasury

13 Nov

DHAA Webinar: Sleep apnoea and the role of dental hygienists and OHTs

Webinar

17 Nov

DHAA WA: End of year celebration

The George, Perth

24 Nov

DHAA NSW: International event

The Westin, Nusa Dua, Bali

24 Nov

DHAA VIC: "Teeth on the green"

Kooyong Tennis Club, Kooyong

DEC ’18

2 Dec

DHAA SA: Christmas brunch

The Highway, Plympton

MAR ’19

2 Mar

DHAA TAS: Surface protection workshop

The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel, Hobart

20 Mar

DHAA SA: World Oral Health Day supper

TBC

MAY ’19

25 May

DHAA SA: Destination Victor Harbour

Waterside Retaurant, Victor Harbor

JUN ’19

21 Jun

DHAA SA: Mid-year dinner

Adelaide Oval, North Adelaide

22 Jun

DHAA NT: Darwin full-day CPD

Sky City Darwin, Darwin City

15-17 Aug

International Symposium on Dental Hygiene

Brisbane Convention Centre

OCT ’18

NOV ’18

AUG ’19

Key to the state colours n ACT

nN SW

n NT

n Qld

nS A

n Tas

n Vic

nW A

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