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30/09/2026 13:06:19
NEWS
BSPD receives Colgate and Henry Schein Dental Hygienist donations to give children diagnosed with and Therapist numbers grow, but cancer essential oral health care kits at a slower pace The DCP register has passed 84,700, but growth in the two professions has slowed sharply and more therapists are leaving, many of them to become dentists
T
he number of dental hygienists and dental therapists on the UK register has risen again, according to the latest General Dental Council (GDC) figures. But the pace of growth has slowed sharply compared with last year. As of 17 August, 11,407 dental hygienists and 8,824 dental therapists were registered. Hygienist numbers rose by 342 (about 3%) on 2025. Therapist numbers rose by 365 (about 4%). Those rises are much smaller than last year’s. Between 2024 and 2025, the hygienist register grew by more than 1,000, or around 10%. The therapist register grew by almost 1,700, or nearly 25%. Whether the latest figures reflect fewer new entrants, more people leaving, or both is not yet clear. Overall, the DCP register now stands at 84,746, a rise of around 5% on last year’s post-renewal count. Most of that increase came from dental nurses, whose numbers grew by more than 4,000. The most striking figures for the professions concern those leaving the register. This year, 203 dental therapists were removed, up from 135 in 2025 and 78 in 2023. That is more than two and a half times as many as three years ago. Among hygienists, 250 were removed, the highest number in five years. Many of those leavers remain in dentistry. Of the 203 therapists removed, 86 (more than four in 10) are now registered as dentists. The same is true of 63 of the 250 hygienists. These figures confirm what many in the professions will already have noticed: a growing number of dental hygienists and therapists are retraining as dentists. For those who stay, this raises questions about career progression and whether the scope of practice is being fully used. The growing appeal of dentistry as a next step may be a sign that clinicians want more opportunities than their current roles provide. Across all DCP groups, 3,769 professionals were removed after renewal, equivalent to 4.5% of fee payments received. That is up from 4.1% last year, the first rise in the removal rate since at least 2022. This year’s renewal period was complicated by technical problems with MyGDC, the regulator’s new online service. The GDC confirmed on 23 July that anyone who could not renew through the system would not be removed, provided they emailed before the deadline. It also added capacity to its customer service team. For dental hygienists and therapists who have been removed, the GDC says it has simplified restoration. Those who have been off the register for less than 12 months, and have always met their CPD requirements, can apply to restore their registration and continue practising in the UK. It is a reminder of how important it is to keep CPD records up to date. Full figures are available in the GDC’s monthly registration reports and annual registration statistical report. n
E
very child and young person newly diagnosed with cancer in the UK over the next year will receive a toothbrush, fluoride toothpaste and oral health information. The donations making this possible were announced by the British Society of Paediatric Dentistry (BSPD). Colgate, through its Bright Smiles, Bright Futures initiative, has committed to supplying oral care products for around 4,000 children and young people across all four nations. Henry Schein UK, through its Henry Schein Cares programme, will fund printing of a new oral health fact sheet and supply goody bags containing the Colgate products. Outgoing BSPD President Dr Oosh Devalia OBE made the announcement at the society’s Annual Scientific Conference in York. For dental hygienists and therapists, the message behind the initiative will be familiar: dental disease is almost entirely preventable, and the earlier prevention starts, the better. For children with cancer, the stakes are especially high. As a hospital dental consultant, Dr Devalia was often called to see children shortly before their cancer treatment was due to begin, only to find significant decay. Because untreated decay carries a serious infection risk, cancer treatment may then have to be postponed. Cancer therapies can also affect the mouth more widely. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy are commonly associated with mucositis, dry mouth and a higher risk of infection. That makes a healthy starting point and consistent daily care all the more important. Dr Devalia described good oral health for these children as “not a luxury”. She said it is essential to their comfort, their overall outcomes and their ability to tolerate treatment. The cause is a personal one. Dr Devalia’s daughter was diagnosed with leukaemia in 2024. Seeing her daughter through treatment, Dr Devalia said, showed her how easily mouth care can slip down the list of priorities during long hospital stays. The experience strengthened her determination to see Mini Mouth Care Matters rolled out nationally. Dr Devalia created Mini Mouth Care Matters (Mini MCM) in 2019 to build evidence-based mouth care into routine healthcare for medically complex children. She was recognised in the 2026 King’s Birthday Honours for her contribution to children and young people’s oral health. The donations will support the national roll-out of Mini MCM. The programme trains
multidisciplinary healthcare teams to carry out a simple “lift the lip” check, which spots early oral health problems that could affect treatment or quality of life. It also promotes core preventive advice, including brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste. Since its launch, the programme has trained professionals in 37 NHS trusts. It has spread beyond hospital wards into health visiting, palliative and end-of-life care, and special educational settings. The model will resonate with hygienists and therapists, whose work already centres on prevention, patient education and early detection. Mini MCM gives nurses, health visitors and other non-dental colleagues basic oral health skills. In doing so, it creates clearer routes for referral into the dental team. It also gives DCPs opportunities to support training and share their expertise locally. Each newly diagnosed child will receive ageappropriate toothbrushes and toothpaste at the start of treatment. They will also get a printed fact sheet co-produced by BSPD, CCLG: The Children & Young People’s Cancer Association, and the Faculty of Dental Surgery at the Royal College of Surgeons of England. The fact sheet features Mini MCM. Young Lives vs Cancer will fill and distribute the goody bags through its social work teams in primary treatment centres across the UK. BSPD also premiered a new video at the conference to support the oral health of children with cancer. It was co-created with CCLG under the leadership of BSPD’s Dr Claudia Heggie, and it features Dr Devalia’s own children. Emma Van Essen, Scientif ic Af fairs Lead at Colgate-Palmolive, said the donation builds on the company’s contribution to the Government ’s Super vised Toothbrushing Initiative in England in 2025. She said it reflects Colgate’s commitment to children facing the toughest health challenges. Victoria Goodall, Managing Director of Henry Schein UK, said oral health can easily be overlooked during long and complex medical journeys. She said the company hoped to make a real difference to families at a very difficult time. Naomi Shefford-Thomas, Health Information Officer at CCLG, said the charity was proud that its information, written by its expert members, would reach so many families. She hoped it would help parents look after their child’s mouth during treatment. n
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CONTENTS
FROM THE EDITOR
INSIDE THIS ISSUE... 3
NEWS
6
BSDHT
8
ORAL HEALTH FOUNDATION
10
ORAL HEALTH
16
TREATMENT
20
INTERVIEW: DEBBIE HEMINGTON
22
PRACTICE
33
BRUSH UP ON CPD
38
EVENTS
39
EDUCATION
40
THE DENTAL AWARDS 2026
42
PRODUCTS
SUBSCRIBE TO SMILE
W
ith that long, hot summer behind us and the school holidays over, most practices will be back to full speed. Colleagues have returned, and patients who put off appointments over the summer are starting to book back in.
ORAL HEAL dentalrepublic.co.uk
/smile
Rates: UK £39.95 per year; Overseas £83 - all cheques in sterling drawn on a UK bank made payable to ‘Smile’. 8 issues including 16 hrs CPD £39.95
Published by Purple Media Solutions The Old School House, St Stephen’s Street Tonbridge, Kent TN9 2AD Tel: 01732 371 570 Smile OHM Magazine is published by Purple Media Solutions. Registered in England. Circulation/Subscriptions: The Probe Subscriptions, Perception SaS, PO Box 304, Uckfield, East Sussex, TN22 9EZ, Tel: 01825 701520, https://purplems.my-subs.co.uk ©Purple Media Solutions Ltd, 2014. All rights reserved. ISSN 0032-9185. The publisher’s written consent must be obtained before any part of this
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@_dentalrepublic
TH
MATTERS
Our lead story this issue looks at the latest General Dental Council registration figures (turn back to the previous page if you missed it). Dental hygienist and therapist numbers are still rising, but much more slowly than last year. What also struck me was that more dental therapists are also leaving the register, with more than 40% of those who left now being registered as dentists. It raises some fair questions about career progression within the professions, especially when adding in that more than a quarter of dental hygienists removed from the register have also rejoined as dentists. Enjoy the magazine!
publication may be reproduced in any form whatsoever, including photocopies, and information retrieval systems. While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication is correct and accurate, the publisher cannot accept liability for any consequential loss or damage, however caused, arising as a result of using information printed in this magazine. The views expressed in Smile OHM Magazine are not necessarily the views of the magazine, nor of Purple Media Solutions Editorial Advisory Board: Dr Barry Oulton, B.Ch.D. DPDS MNLP; Dr Graham Barnby, BDS, DGDP RCS; Dr Ewa Rozwadowska, BDS; Dr Yogi Savania BChD, MFGDP; Dr Ashok Sethi, BDS, DGDP (UK), MGDS RCS; Dr Paroo Mistry BDS MFDS MSc MOrth FDS (orth); Dr Tim Sunnucks, BDS DRDP; Dr Jason Burns, BDS, LDS, DGDP (UK), DFO, MSc; Prof Phillip Dowell, BDS, MScD, DGDP RCS, FICD; Dr Nigel Taylor MDSc, BDS, FDS RCS(Eng), M’Orth RCS(Eng), D’Orth RCS(Eng); Mark Wright BDS(Lon), DGDP RCS(UK), Dip Imp Dent.RCS (Eng) Adv. Cert, FICD; Dr Yasminder Virdee, BDS.
ORAL HEALTH MATTERS
Managing Editor James Cooke james.cooke@purplems.com Tel: 01732 371 581 Commercial Director Gary Henson gary.henson@purplems.com Tel: 07803 505208 Production and Designer 1 Lorna Reekie lorna.reekie@purplems.com Tel: 01732 371 584 Production and Designer 2 Rob Tremain rob.tremain@purplems.com Divisional Administrator Francesca Smith francesca.smith@purplems.com Tel: 01732 371 570 Circulation Manager Andy Kirk Managing Director Ed Hunt ed.hunt@purplems.com Tel: 01732 371 577
Scan to explore Smile Oral Health Matters back catalogue online or visit smile-ohm.co.uk/issues/
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THE PROBE
4
04_Smile-SepOct-Contents.indd 4
29/09/2026 16:17:49
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It opens up a wide range of wear-resistant restorations and cusp-by-cusp build-ups, giving clinicians remarkable inMoulding everyday practice. Injectable is indicated forthe allversatility cavity classes without the ical techniques, including Injection Technique (IMT), clinical techniques, including the Injection Moulding Technique (IMT), giving clinicians remarkable versatility in everyday practice. wear-resistant restorations and cusp-by-cusp build-ups, Its uniquely high thixotropic viscosity allows the material to giving adapt to any clinical need for a covering layer. It opens up a wide range of clinwear-resistant restorations and cusp-by-cusp build-ups, giving wear-resistant restorations and cusp-by-cusp build-ups, Its uniquely high thixotropic viscosity allowspractice. theyet material to adapt to any clinical clinicians remarkable versatility in everyday situation. 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30/09/2026 13:01:18
BSDHT
Flying Smiles: taking oral healthcare on the road What started with a cargo bike has grown into Flying Smiles, an award-winning mobile oral healthcare service bringing preventive care directly into homes and communities across Scotland. On behalf of the BSDHT, Nicola Kramer caught up with founder Fiona Perry to learn more about the journey so far Nicola: Flying Smiles has quite an unusual origin story. How did it all begin? Fiona: It started because my patients were getting older. We used to joke that when you could no longer get to a dental practice, you had better hope it was written into your power of attorney that somebody would clean around your implant bridge for you! Then I realised there was a genuine gap. We’re keeping our teeth for much longer, which is fantastic, but who is going to help people look after them when circumstances change? I’ve been a dental hygienist for more than 40 years and have always been passionate about prevention. We know we can prevent disease, but in a busy surgery environment we’re not always given the time to really inspire people to change habits. Flying Smiles gave me an opportunity to do that. Nicola: For readers who haven’t come across it before, what exactly is Flying Smiles? Fiona: It started as portable dentistry. I carry all the equipment I need into somebody’s home and effectively create a dental surgery wherever they would like it. In the early days, I even transported equipment around my village using a cargo bike. It was practical, sustainable and a great conversation starter. As the service grew, I realised there were communities, particularly in rural Scotland, that weren’t necessarily financially deprived but were service deprived. People wanted care but simply couldn’t access it. That’s what led to the Molar Express, a fully equipped mobile dental clinic that allows me to travel into communities and provide care where it’s needed most. Nicola: Has the service attracted the patients you expected? Fiona: Some, yes, but many I never anticipated. I see older adults, care home residents and housebound patients, but I also see people who are passionate about their health and understand the connection between oral health and general wellbeing. Families with neurodiverse children have been another important group. For some children, visiting a dental practice can be stressful for everyone involved.
Mobile Dental Conference 2027 Join the UK’s first conference dedicated to mobile dentistry and discover how clinicians across the profession are taking care beyond the practice walls. Expect practical learning, fresh ideas and inspiring conversations about the future of community-based oral healthcare. 30 April 2027 at Norton House Hotel & Spa, Harvest Road, Newbridge, Edinburgh, EH28 8LX Book your place Book your place for delegates
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Being treated in a familiar environment can make a huge difference. I also see nervous patients, people who have lost access to NHS services, and people who haven’t seen a dental professional for years and simply don’t know where to start. Nicola: What have you learned from treating patients in their own homes and communities? Fiona: It’s an absolute privilege. When somebody comes into surgery, you might have 20 minutes with them. In their home, you see the whole picture. You see how they live, what challenges they face and what might be getting in the way. You can see their toothbrush. You can see whether standing at the sink is difficult. You can see what support they have around them. That means the advice becomes genuinely personalised. I’ve probably seen more disease disappear since starting Flying Smiles than I ever did working in practice because people are ready to listen. We’ve connected, and together we’ve found solutions that fit their lives. Nicola: How does that support a more preventive approach to oral health? Fiona: Time is the biggest factor. Sometimes it’s as simple as suggesting somebody keeps a toothbrush and a cup beside their chair. Sometimes it’s finding ways to make brushing easier for someone with arthritis. Sometimes it’s speaking to carers or family members. When you understand somebody’s environment, you can tailor advice to what will work for them. That’s when prevention becomes much more powerful. Nicola: What has been your proudest Flying Smiles moment so far? Fiona: There have been lots of special moments, but the patient stories are the ones that stay with me. One of the proudest moments of my career was helping somebody receiving palliative care. After cleaning and moisturising their mouth, they were able to smile and speak comfortably again. That’s something I’ll never forget. I’ve also been incredibly honoured to receive a Denobi Award from the American Mobile and Teledentistry Alliance, a Women of Inspiration Award, and Scottish Businesswoman of the Year 2025. Being invited to speak at professional events and helping other clinicians explore mobile dentistry has been wonderful too. Nicola: What would you like the profession to learn from Flying Smiles? Fiona: That dentistry doesn’t always have to happen within four walls. We should be asking ourselves whether we truly understand the communities we serve and whether there are people who need care delivered differently. Mobile dentistry isn’t the answer to everything, but it can be part of the solution. Sometimes the best way to improve access is simply to go to where people are. Nicola: What’s next for Flying Smiles? Fiona: The Molar Express is ready to hit the road. My aim is to bring preventive oral healthcare to communities with limited access to dental services throughout Scotland. I’d also like to continue supporting other dental professionals who are interested in working more flexibly and exploring mobile dentistry themselves.
Ultimately, I’d love to see mobile dentistry become a recognised and established part of the profession because oral healthcare shouldn’t depend on whether somebody can get to us. Sometimes, we need to be willing to go to them. n Inspired by Fiona’s journey? Whether you are exploring mobile dentistry, developing a specialist interest or considering a different direction in your career, the BSDHT offers education, networking and professional support to help members take the next step. Find out more at www.bsdht.org.uk
ABOUT THE
CONTRIBUTORS
FIONA PERRY
Fiona is the founder of Flying Smiles, an innovative mobile dental hygiene service bringing preventive oral healthcare directly to patients across Scotland. Having qualified as a dental hygienist in 1985, she combines more than 40 years’ clinical experience with a passion for accessibility, education and prevention.
NICOLA KRAMER
Nicola Kramer is the Editorial Manager at Barker PR, where she has worked since 2014. With 25 years’ experience across healthcare and dentistry, she specialises in researching and writing editorial content and enhanced CPD articles for leading dental publications.
6
06_Smile-SepOct_BSDHT.indd 6
29/09/2026 16:19:53
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30/09/2026 13:07:35
ORAL HEALTH FOUNDATION
What Yvette Cooper’s appointment must mean for dentistry
Y
vette Cooper arrives at the Department of Health and Social Care with no shortage of challenges competing for her attention. But for millions of people who continue to struggle to access NHS dental care, dentistry cannot afford to become another item pushed down the new Health Secretary’s in-tray. Her appointment offers an opportunity. Not simply for another initiative designed to relieve immediate pressure, but for a renewed commitment to addressing the fundamental problems facing NHS dentistry and improving the oral health of the nation. Cooper does not inherit a system standing still. NHS dental quality and payment reforms are being implemented during 2026/27, bringing changes to urgent care, the treatment of patients with complex needs, prevention and the use of the wider dental team. These are important developments. Dental teams have long highlighted how the existing system can fail to reflect the time and complexity involved in caring for patients with greater needs. Better recognition of complex care, alongside a greater emphasis on prevention, represents welcome progress. But incremental changes cannot be mistaken for a long-term solution. From firefighting to long-term reform The challenge facing the new Health Secretary is not identifying what is wrong with NHS dentistry. Successive governments and representatives of the profession have diagnosed many of the same problems for years. Access remains inadequate, inequalities are stark, prevention is undervalued and too many dental professionals question whether they have a sustainable future within the NHS. The harder question is why, despite that level of consensus, transformative change has proved so elusive. What may be different this time is the wider political context. Andy Burnham has entered Downing Street talking about building a more preventative state and tackling inequalities between different parts of the country and within our communities. Few areas of healthcare offer a more tangible test of those ambitions than oral health.
Where somebody lives, their income and their circumstances continue to influence their risk of oral disease and ability to access care. Tooth decay remains largely preventable, yet its consequences fall disproportionately on our most disadvantaged communities. If reducing health inequalities is to be a defining ambition of this Government, oral health must be part of it. A genuinely preventative health service cannot focus solely on managing disease once it has developed. In dentistry, that means looking upstream: supporting good oral health from the earliest years, strengthening public health programmes and enabling the whole dental team to deliver effective preventive interventions. There is an opportunity here for Cooper that some of her predecessors have not had: to make the case for dental reform within a wider political programme already focused on prevention and inequality. But political alignment will mean little without resources. Turning ambition into delivery For too long, the debate around NHS dentistry has not suffered from a shortage of diagnosis, but a shortage of delivery. Contract reform cannot simply become an exercise in dividing the existing pot differently while expecting the service to achieve more. If government wants better access, more preventive care, appropriate treatment for people with complex needs and a workforce that sees a future in NHS dentistry, it must be honest about what delivering those ambitions requires. This is where leadership from both Cooper and Burnham matters. The Health Secretary can drive reform within the department, but sustainable change will require support from the centre of government – including when difficult decisions about funding and priorities are made. That must go hand-in-hand with workforce reform. Recruitment alone will not solve the problem. Retention, morale, appropriate remuneration and making full use of the skills of the wider dental team all matter. Promising more appointments
without creating the conditions in which dental teams can sustainably provide them risks treating the symptom rather than the cause. There must also be greater accountability for what reform actually achieves. Success cannot be measured only in activity, additional appointments or announcements. Success should mean fewer people unable to access routine NHS care. Fewer children developing preventable tooth decay. Fewer adults living with untreated disease. Fewer people reaching the point where dental pain becomes an emergency. It should mean narrowing unacceptable inequalities and creating an NHS dental service in which professionals can see a sustainable future. Yvette Cooper, alongside new dental minister James Frith, has an opportunity to turn political attention into lasting reform. Andy Burnham’s emphasis on prevention and inequality could provide the wider government mandate needed to push that change further than previous attempts. If this Government is serious about creating a more preventative health service and reducing entrenched inequalities, dentistry is not a peripheral issue. It is one of the clearest places to demonstrate that those ambitions can make a tangible difference. The problems facing NHS dentistry have been understood for years. What matters now is whether this new political leadership can finally deliver the scale of change to match them. n
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
DR RACHAEL ENGLAND
Dr Rachael England, Head of Policy and Advocacy, Oral Health Foundation
8
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29/09/2026 16:23:23
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ORAL HEALTH
Getting to grips with flossing – a generational approach
A
s a parent, caring for children involves the provision of emotional support as well as meeting their practical needs. So when they resist brushing their teeth, we know that they do not yet fully understand the importance of oral hygiene and they need to find ways to encourage the behaviour through more engaging, playful, and age-appropriate methods. Research by Swiss psychologist Pierre Piaget1 corroborates this with a linear set of four major stages within children’s cognitive development: sensorimotor, preoperational, concrete operational, and formal operational. As pre- and young adolescents are ‘concrete thinkers’ who need to see, feel, touch, smell, or hear to make sense of what is being conveyed, concepts like ‘oral health’ and repercussions into the future of certain behaviours are too obscure for them. When patients reach adulthood, they have attained a level of maturity to be perceived as fully responsible for their oral hygiene circumstances and for seeking professional advice, if needed. However, as we know from experience it is not as linear and straightforward as this. Adult oral health practices are highly influenced by a complex set of socio-economic factors, health literacy, lifestyle choices, physical abilities, as well as latent oral health behaviours linked to unconscious dietary patterns and mental health. It does not help that, when faced with suboptimal oral health, many people will avoid going to the dentist as a result of self-disappointment, shame, embarrassment, and state of resignation. So the oral health engagement landscape is complex and shaped by a multitude of factors which evolve throughout the course of life. Despite the barriers to patient engagement and the resistance we may encounter when encouraging positive oral health behaviours, it is important to recognise that change is a process. A patient’s journey often takes time, and understanding the complexity of behaviour change requires patience, perseverance, and compassion from the clinician. It is also important to accept that no single professional can meet every patient’s needs; multiple healthcare professionals may play an important role in supporting patients at different stages of their journey. Stories of personal breakthrough are reassuring and remind us to trust the process. Just last week, a patient returned and told me, “I don’t know what you did, but you just made me want to look after my mouth all the time, and there’s not a day I’ve missed.” She explained that she had never truly appreciated the importance of oral hygiene before, but now felt motivated to brush effectively and clean interdentally every day. Habit stacking Interestingly, my strategy and success for creating lasting behaviour change is to downplay the value of an appointment. 30 - 45 minutes in practice cannot be a game changer without patients working on positive daily habits through habit stacking to improve their oral health. We know the daily habits count the most, through a consistent daily routine. My role is to guide them with practical advice and recommended tools I have selected to cater for their needs and getting to know their motivations. Naturally I make flossing recommendations and discuss appropriate patient-specific interdental oral hygiene aids in my discussions with patients. However, research shows one in three people don’t clean interproximally2 so clearly we still have
a significant gap between recommendation and adoption. We need to ‘create the why’ and the ‘how’ and show patients that there are alternatives to string floss and interdental brushes if they prefer a powered rather than manual approach. Arthritis and declining motor coordination Moving into later life, it is important to recognise that patient engagement may change over time. Cognitive changes, reduced dexterity, and declining motor coordination can all impact a person’s ability to maintain previous levels of oral health behaviours. As a result, a patient who was once highly engaged may require a more adapted, supportive, and tailored approach from the dental team to sustain positive oral health outcomes. I was concerned to read that 10 million people in the UK have arthritis. This is a significant 15% proportion of our patient cohort, considering that the UK population now numbers 69.9 million. According to a study3 published in the Journal of Clinical Periodontology, microbial imbalances in the mouth can contribute to systemic inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients, which reinforces the oral systemic links. We can support patients in a number of ways. My advice is that if arthritis is recorded in a patient’s medical or family history, it is helpful to reiterate the oral systemic link. If the patient personally experiences arthritis, consider exploring where they may be experiencing challenges and how this may be affecting their ability to maintain optimal oral hygiene. Interdental cleaning with arthritis is often more challenging and handle adjuncts are often helpful to support interdental brushing. However, for those who prefer an easier solution or can’t get to grips with using handles on interdental
brushes, I recommend The Philips Power Flosser which is a brilliant adjunct to daily oral hygiene routines. The device is also ideal for patients who develop arthritis and who experience a decline in their motor coordination. The water seems to also provide some relief for patients with dry mouth brought on by medications. An in-vitro study conducted in 2021 showed plaque removal coverage by Philips Sonicare Quad Stream nozzle nine times as efficiently as other products on the market. This reassures me that even when a patient’s dexterity is compromised, their oral hygiene doesn’t need to deteriorate. Ultimately, the goal is to help every patient find an interdental cleaning method they can use consistently and effectively. Whether that is traditional floss, interdental brushes or a powered water flosser, sustainable oral health is built on daily habits that fit comfortably into a patient’s lifestyle, abilities and long-term wellbeing. n
References available upon request
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
VICTORIA WILSON
Victoria is a Dental Hygienist & Therapist, Oral Health Innovator, Founder of The Smile Revolution.
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ORAL HEALTH
Dog Days
T
he summer of 2026 is set to be one of the hottest on record with Britons exp eriencing numerous ‘ dog day s’, which, contrar y to popular belief, is not about our furr y friends panting in the heat but instead refers to the most uncomfor table and sweltering par t of summer. The phrase is actually rooted in ancient astronomy when the seasons were tracked by obser ving the night sk y and it was noted that for 40 days (t ypically running from July 3 to August 11) Sirius, the brightest, hottest star in the sk y, also known as the “Dog Star,” rose in the east just like the sun. But , just what do ‘ dog days’ mean for the lips? Well, because the vermilion zone is thin and lack s natural melanin, if lef t unprotected and exposed to ultraviolet rays, it is susceptible to: Reactivation of the herpes simplex virus Loss of collagen and accelerated ageing (of interest to aesthetic practitioners) Actinic (solar) cheilitis and even squamous cell carcinoma. So, this is no time to be lackadaisical about sun protection because whilst ordinar y, nonSPF lip balm can be worn in the sun, it will only lock in moisture, of fering no protection against harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays. In fact, plain balms made with heav y oils or glosses can act like a magnif ying glass, potentially increasing the risk of burns. Indeed, it’s ver y impor tant to acknowledge that the lips can actually burn. A lot of people mistakenly think that because they’re naturally darker in tone, they’re immune to UV rays and tanned lips just mean more colour — a freebie from the sun! And whilst we all love a freebie, in this instance the old adage of ‘there’s no such thing as a free lunch’ rings true! Ideally,
•• •
the chosen balm should be SPF 30 or even 50 to ensure the lips are protected against sunburn and collagen breakdown. When it comes to SPF during ‘ dog days’, it’s go big or go home! It also needs to be broad-spectrum, shielding against both UVA and UVB rays, and reapplied of ten (at least ever y t wo hours). Lip balm wears of f quickly through talking, eating, drinking, or kissing. For those doing lot s of the latter, it may even be a good idea to apply extra, af ter all ‘sharing is caring’! Unfor tunately, many people have f lashbacks to SPF for the lips leaving a really thick white layer that made you look like you’d been drinking a milkshake! But the realit y is balms have evolved and the lips really do need some extra care in this heat. It’s also impor tant to make sure they stay hydrated because dr y, chapped lips are more susceptible to harm from UV rays. Thus, increased f luid intake
(non-alcoholic!) is super impor tant along with pos sible introduction of ele ctroly te concentrates such as ‘Oshun’ designed to enhance regular water intake and suppor t cellular hydration. For those who like to wear lipstick, the good news is wearing an SPF lip balm doesn’t prohibit it s use – it can simply be layered on top of or even sandwiched bet ween the t wo! SPF lipsticks are no substitute for SPF balms, though, as they are of ten glossy and attract the sun. And f inally! Never ignore the useby date/symbol AK A Period Af ter Opening (PAO) icon on your sunscreen (including SPF lip balm). It looks like a small open jar with a number with the letter “M” inside. It’s of ten a good idea to write the date it was opened on the tube – if it’s out of date, it’s time to buy a nice new one! Hopefully, by following these tips, we’ll all have lips with a healthy sheen to out shine any star, not just Sirius! n
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ALI LOWE
Ali Lowe is the founder of Fit Lip UK – a campaign aimed at encouraging people to wear SPF lip balm in order to protect their lips, prevent lip cancer and keep their mouth healthy.
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ORAL HEALTH
Remote working and TMD
R
emote working is now a very common practice across various industries. Once a rare benefit for very few, it is now an established part of daily life for many. The COVID-19 pandemic saw particular acceleration, as the average percentage of primarily remote work increased from 5% to a peak of almost 40%, and now levelling at around 22% of individuals working at least one day from home.i The research behind the effects of remote working on mental health and general musculoskeletal health has been explored. However, less frequently discussed is its impact on the stomatognathic system. There is a growing amount of literature supporting the link between persistent changes in posture from working habits and a rise in temporomandibular disorder (TMD). Postural changes Working environments that have been adapted for at-home are unlikely to offer the same ergonomic designs that offices and other professional settings do. The prolonged use of laptops on desks that are positioned too low encourages neck strains and postural misalignment. Laptops are the primary tool used in remote work, and with the screen and keyboard being permanently connected, further issues arise through compromised positioning. Monitors do not necessarily offer a solution, especially when misaligned due to inadequate setups. A height that is too low directly affects jaw positioning and tension, causing the neck to crane, and subsequently compressing muscles. Furthermore, a study at the University of Cincinnati found that only 58% of individuals working from home have a proper office chair, with 27% using a dining chair, and 15% using a none-chair like a bed or a sofa. ii Without proper lumbar support, workers may slouch, causing the jaw to misalign as their head pushes forward and constant, severe pressure is placed on the temporomandibular joints (TMJ).iii Short term, these positions are not particularly problematic. However, if they are sustained for extended periods of time, they add consistent load across muscles.
Posture and the TMJ It is evidenced that for every inch your head moves forward from its neutral position, the neck must withstand an additional 4.5 kilograms.iv As the function of the TMJ is linked to the position of the head and spine, altering neck posture supports a beater mandibular resting position and muscle activity.v Behavioural patterns As well as the consequences of altered physical positioning, remote working has introduced differences in daily routines. As lifestyles shift into a lack of separation between personal and work environments, patients might suffer longer periods of focus without interruption. Natural breaks become less frequent, with parafunctional activity like concentration clenching leading to intense fatigue and discomfort. For patients presenting with bruxism. dental professionals should encourage methods of reintroducing healthy breaks into long working hours to avoid such issues. Furthermore, working from home often means less verbal communication throughout the day as isolation levels increase for many. This reduced movement can cause the jaw to clench unconsciously, which, over time can lead to more significant complications. Work-related stress can contribute to intensified levels of muscle tension too which, when combined with other physical changes, can compound to establish an environment where the chances of TMD are much higher. Early intervention Patients affected by these changes might not initially present with TMD as such. Rather, like many conditions, the symptoms will build gradually, with patients demonstrating jaw fatigue, tension headaches,vi and more, combined with discomfort in the acromial region. Other symptoms can include audible joint sounds, which whilst not always present in the early stages of TMD, are indicative of further problems long-term.vii Dental professionals should discuss good posture and habit adaptations as part of a routine assessment to support better results. Adjustments to working
environments such as screen positioning and seating support are a good starting place to reduce strain. The OraStretch® Press Rehab System from Total TMJ is a must-have device for patients suffering with TMD. Offering a simple and effective way to increase jaw movement, the OraStretch® gently restores function after the consequences of long-term remote working. Innovatively engineered, the product is available in versions specific to children, edentulous patients, over-/under-jet patients, and those with limited oral openings – delivering care to a broad patient base. The continued support of remote workers With the continuous rise of remote working, dental professionals have a duty to support patients in avoiding certain health repercussions that stem from it. Delivering appropriate advice and the right tools can make a huge difference to their wellbeing, allowing them to continue working without the pains and hindrances of health concerns. For more details about Total TMJ and the products available, please email info@totaltmj.co.uk n
References available upon request
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
KAREN HARNOTT
Karen is Operations Director at Total TMJ
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Enhance brushing compliance with Curaprox
T
he toothbrush is the superhero of the daily oral care routine, protecting the tooth surfaces from harmful bacteria day and night. However, 54% of the UK adult population admit to skipping brushing their teeth at least once a week, with this mostly occurring before bed – a time where oral care is most needed. There are many reasons why toothbrushing may be overlooked, from short-term problems like tiredness or having lost a brush, to longer-term impacts such as sensitive gingivae and an unawareness of the importance of oral care. To support patients who admit to skipping toothbrushing, dental practitioners can recommend the innovative products from Curaprox, especially the first-class offerings of toothbrushes.i Power in every clean On the sonic front, Curaprox has designed a cuttingedge, fully customisable solution: the Hydrosonic Pro. A collision of sleek Swiss aesthetics and tested science, the powerful hydrodynamics are able to push fluids through the interdental spaces too, helping dislodge trapped food particles. Featuring seven cleaning modes that reach up to 84,000 brush movements per minute, patients can find the setting that feels best for them. For an even more tailored experience, the Hydrosonic Pro comes with three brush heads: Power, Sensitive, and Single. Whilst each uses wonderfully soft Curen® filaments for a gentle cleaning experience, the Sensitive head is ideal for patients reporting bleeding gingivae. This enables them to remove harmful particles and protect the gingival margin without feeling discomfort, improving daily compliance. The elegant design of the Hydrosonic Pro also promotes function: Curacurve ® technology creates precision-engineered angles
that optimise patient handling and contact with the tooth surfaces and gingival margin. Difficult spaces are more easily accessed too, amounting to a comprehensive cleaning experience. Sophisticated yet simple, the Hydrosonic Pro levels-up daily dental care to a professional hygiene standard. A twist on tradition The traditional manual toothbrush is basic in design and provides a minimal standard of care. This is why the CS 5460 toothbrush from Curaprox is so distinct: its innovative look blends practicality with scientifically supported hygiene outcomes. Easy to grip, the octagonal handle rests between the fingers, guiding the patient to the correct brushing technique. Simultaneously, the angled brush head targets the tooth surfaces and gingivae, reducing the risk of caries and periodontitis. The Curen ® filaments define Curaprox toothbrushes. Made with 5,460 of these ultrafine bristles, the CS 5460 packs more punch than a standard supermarket toothbrush, and the gentleness does not come at the cost of effectiveness – patients can experience both comfort and cleanliness. The CS 5460 is also special for being the only toothbrush accredited with the MTick® from GenM, a stamp of approval that means it helps manage one of the symptoms of menopause – in this case sensitive or bleeding gingivae. Menopausal patients in particular should be guided towards the CS 5460 to improve their quality of life. Loaded with bristles Not all toothbrush bristles are created equally, and some are specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient. The CS 12460 Velvet from Curaprox is ideal for patients reporting sensitivity when they brush. With over twice the number of Curen® bristles as the CS 5460, the Velvet delivers
unparalleled softness to the teeth and gingivae, removing harmful bacteria and preventing plaque build-up. The gentle brushing sensation adds a genuine feel-good experience to daily brushing, with a finish reminiscent of a professional dental clean in practice. The ultimate trio The Hydrosonic Pro, CS 5460 and CS 12460 Velvet are three top-of-the-range toothbrushes that give patients a rewarding hygiene experience. Between the soft bristles and ergonomic designs, the Curaprox solutions can be tailored to a wide variety of patients, leading to outstanding oral care outcomes. Recommend from the range today. To arrange a Practice Educational Meeting with your Curaden Development Manager please email us on sales@curaden.co.uk For more information, please visit www.curaprox. co.uk and www.curaden.co.uk n
References available upon request
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TREATMENT
Managing molar incisor hypomineralisation
A
child attends the practice with persistent sensitivity in their newly erupted molars. On examination, demarcated opacities are evident – a familiar presentation for many clinicians managing molar incisor hypomineralisation (MIH). First described by Weerheijm in 2001, it is now a widely recognised developmental condition of systemic origin.i Although prevalence varies across countries and studies, it is estimated to affect around 10-20% of the UK population.ii,iii For many dentists, the impact of MIH on a child’s quality of life is evident in everyday practice. Recognising the signs early allows prompt intervention and supports long-term management.iv Spotting MIH There are multiple factors that can cause MIH, most of which are still not fully understood. Current evidence suggests that prenatal, perinatal and early childhood factors may contribute, with gestational or systemic illnesses, such as respiratory tract infections or measles being implicated.v,vi Clinically, MIH presents as demarcated opacities ranging in severity from white and cream to yellow or brown. Historically, these lesions have been described by various terms, including the colloquial ‘cheese molars’, coined by Dutch paediatric dentist Dr Jan Jälevik.vii First permanent molars and permanent incisors are most commonly affected, although similar hypomineralised lesions have also been reported in second primary molars, sometimes referred to as hypomineralised second primary molars (HSPM).viii Differential diagnoses include amelogenesis imperfecta, fluorosis, enamel hypoplasia and white spot lesions. Where diagnostic uncertainty exists, caution should be exercised before excluding MIH, as affected teeth are at increased risk of caries. Demarcated opacities and an asymmetrical distribution help distinguish MIH from diffuse opacities as seen in fluorosis.ix More than a dental defect Typically diagnosed in early childhood, at the eruption of first permanent molar and incisors, the consequences of MIH are multifaceted, encompassing functional, aesthetic and psychosocial impacts.x Compromised oral hygiene due to hypersensitivity can lead to post-eruptive enamel breakdown and subsequent atypical caries. Difficulty eating, dental anxiety and treatment avoidance due to the pain associated with hypersensitive or carious teeth can make management challenging. Chronic pulpal inflammation may compromise the effectiveness of local anaesthesia, further complicating treatment and adding to the child’s distress. xi Repeated dental appointments may result in missed school, potentially affecting academic progress. Aesthetic concerns from visible enamel defects, particularly on incisors, can contribute to self-consciousness, negatively impacting the child’s wellbeing.xii The ABC of MIH management: ready, steady, protect. A thorough assessment enables early diagnosis and underpins a comprehensive preventive approach. In practice, this includes enhanced oral hygiene instruction, patient and parent education, and dietary advice. Resin-bonded fissure sealants are recommended for molars with intact enamel, whilst glass ionomer cements provide a temporary option for partially erupted or structurally compromised molars. For desensitisation and symptom control, regular fluoride varnish applications are indicated, which may have the added benefit of reducing caries risk.viii
When preventive measures are no longer sufficient to arrest the progression of caries, restorative intervention may be required. Glass ionomer cements provide an interim solution until the patient can tolerate more definitive treatments such as composite resin restoration or stainlesssteel crowns. In extreme cases of extensive caries or limited cooperation, extraction with orthodontic planning may be considered. Ongoing monitoring is essential for successful long-term outcomes. Bioglass: advanced technology Higher-fluoride toothpastes (2800 ppm and 5000 ppm formulations) require a prescription and, whilst considered clinically safe, may raise concerns among some parents regarding accidental ingestion.xiii In contrast, BioMin F toothpaste’s patented bioactive glass contains just 540 ppm fluoride, which is released during gradual dissolution in saliva, with accelerated release under acidic conditions. This is particularly relevant for patients experiencing frequent acid challenges, such as grazing, where repeated drops in oral pH occur.xiv Following carbohydrate intake, salivary pH can fall below the critical threshold of ~5.5, initiating hydroxyapatite dissolution.xv In the presence of fluoride, this promotes the formation of more acid-resistant fluorapatite, lowering the critical pH to ~4.5 and providing more resilient protection.xvi For topical fluoride to be effective, patients are advised not to rinse after brushing to maximise retention. However, strongly flavoured toothpastes can discourage this behaviour. BioMin F’s milder flavour profile may improve compliance with no-rinse guidance and support greater retention of the bioactive glass particles. Mechanism of action Bioactive glass particles adhere to tooth surfaces via polyacrylic acid, with carboxylate groups chelating calcium ions. The glass gradually dissolves in saliva and water, and more rapidly in acidic conditions,
subsequently releasing fluoride, calcium and phosphate ions, supporting fluorapatite formation on the tooth surface.xvii In contrast to conventional sodium fluoride formulations, which are cleared relatively quickly from the oral environment, the bioactive glass matrix bonds to the tooth and releases ions over approximately 10-12 hours, prolonging availability.xviii Patients who struggle with sensitivity or consistent routines may benefit from this extended protection between brushing. In vitro and in vivo studies demonstrate dentinal tubule occlusion, even after acid challenge.xix Prevention, comfort and care The literature supports early recognition and diagnosis of MIH with a minimally invasive, preventive approach to long-term management. With timely intervention and thoughtful care, clinicians can ensure that children with MIH can look forward to healthier smiles and improved wellbeing. The science is clear. The solution is simple. n www.biomin.co.uk
References available upon request
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ALEC HILTON
Alec is CEO at BioMin Technologies
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30/09/2026 13:09:44
TREATMENT
Improving fluoride access for patients
I
t takes both the patient and the dental team to maximise oral health outcomes, and ensure individuals receive the care they need. This includes preventive treatments, which anticipate points of concern and do their best to minimise such risk, or eliminate it entirely. Effective oral hygiene routines are a cornerstone of this, but every clinician will understand that the chosen elements – toothbrush, toothpaste, mouthwash, interdental cleaning device – will all make a unique difference. When assessing toothpastes, for example, fluoride is a key recommendation. It forms an essential part of NHS recommendations, with fluoride solutions of 1,350 parts per million (ppm) thought to be suitable for most adults.i This does not wholly change for paediatric patients, with the NHS advising toothpastes with between 1,350ppm and 1,500ppm, but a lower amount of at least 1,000ppm may still be suitable for many.ii There are more ways for clinicians to be able to support patients by increasing fluoride intake, but first, it is vital to understand how fluoride reacts positively with the dentition, any concerns to be aware of, and how patients can be best advised on its implementation. Understanding fluoride efficacy The safe intake of fluoride has been approved by the professional dental community and wider public for quite some time, and whilst there are some voices of concern, the evidence typically supports its use in safe quantities. Regular exposure allows for fluoride deposits
to form within the plaque biofilm, encouraging remineralisation of the tooth surface. i It’s judged that the most effective methods of fluoride deliver y are those that can be incorporated into ever yday life; i toothpastes are an obvious choice, but the fluoridation of drinking water is another key step. Approximately 10% of England’s population has access to fluoridated water thanks to active schemes implemented most prominently in the West Midlands and the North East of England, amongst others.i Whilst Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland do not have these, some patients will find their water supply contains naturally occurring fluoride – local water suppliers will be able to advise on if a given area’s supply is fluoridated. Some people express concerns with this. Potential risks of fluoride consumption include dental fluorosis, which affects the appearance of the
tooth enamel, and links to larger health conditions. The risk of the latter is not strongly established. iii Fluorosis is a concern especially for children during tooth formation, and the volumes of fluoride recommended in toothpaste and already present in water supplies does factor in such an issue.i It should be noted that an association between fluoridated water and dental fluorosis has been found, with just a 12% chance of people having dental fluorosis that may cause cosmetic concern.iv Introducing fluoride into the water supplies aims to reduce the risk of dental caries. A 2024 review found that water fluoridation may lead to a reduction in instances of decayed, missing or filled primary teeth, and an increase in children who are caries-free. The size of the latter effect was deemed “small but important”.v Extra support Despite the various ways in which fluoride can be provided to the dentition, a volume of patients will inevitably be affected by dental caries. For at-risk or already impacted individuals, extra steps may be required. Topical fluoride treatment is paramount for many individuals. A varnish is recommended to increase the availability of fluoride regardless of the pre-existing levels in local water supplies, with strong recommendations for paediatric patients. i Use of fluoride varnish is found to reduce decayed, missing and filled teeth surfaces by an average of 46% for the permanent dentition, and 33% for the deciduous dentition.vi These can have an enormous impact in just a single appointment, and choosing this minimally invasive oral hygiene addition can maximise a patient’s chances of optimal long-term oral health. The choices of restorative material can also aid the provision of fluoride to the surrounding dentition. Glass ionomer cements release fluoride consistently over considerable periods of time, which in turn has an anti-caries effect.vii This has been observed by studies to produce
detectable adverse effects on caries-causing bacteria.viii In addition, research also finds that glass-ionomers can have sufficient fluoride release to also prompt the remineralisation of teeth, playing a key role overall in counteracting caries – though this is also supported by additional sources of fluoride. An addition to rely upon Choosing effective additions to the dental restorative armoury is key, and the new Diamond Rapid Set Capsules from Kemdent are an ideal solution that maximises the presence of fluoride following restorations. The radiopaque material is available in pre-dosed capsules for direct placement, with 50 capsules per pack, and produces a high compressive strength. Alongside an optimised formulation that aids enamel and dentine bonding, clinicians will also rely on a consistent fluoride release. No activator is required, ensuring ease of use in every workflow. Access to fluoride is without doubt important for patients. Understanding how patients might achieve this, and how treatment plans can be designed to maximise it, is vital for improving longterm oral health outcomes. For more information about the leading solutions available from Kemdent, please vis-it www. kemdent.co.uk or call 01793 770 256 n
References available upon request
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ALISTAIR MAYOH
Alistair is Marketing Director at Kemdent
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
A recommendation your patients can get behind You have been telling patients to floss for years, and so has every clinician before you. Around 70% of the UK population still do not do it. i At some point, the question becomes about whether the tools we have been recommending can really work for most of them The evidence suggests not: string f loss demands a level of manual dexterit y that many patients find difficult to sustain. It takes time. It is uncomfortable for patients with sensitive gums, tight contacts, or any level of soft tissue inflammation. ii And unlike brushing, where the tools have improved, flossing has remained essentially unchanged for decades. The compliance issue has nothing to do with motivation; it’s design stagnation. When the tool changes Insight presented at the British Dental Conference & Dentistr y Show 2026 by Dr Ali Golkari, researcher at Queen Mar y University of London, offered a useful perspective. Electric flossing technology, when designed correctly, can perform strongly across both the contact point and the embrasure space – the two key areas that interdental cleaning must address. Many alternative methods favour one over the other. A device that reaches both, with a low dexterity requirement, removes the barriers that might cause patients to give up. The Tahir Electric Flosser was developed with exactly this in mind. Its rechargeable, one-handed design delivers sonic vibration to disrupt plaque at and below the contact point, with replaceable floss heads that require no threading, no finger contact, and no difficultto-use technique. For those who have tried and abandoned string floss, this is a different categor y of experience.
One patient had received a warning of advanced gum disease and began using the Tahir Electric Flosser on the recommendation of their clinician. “At twelve weeks my gums had stopped bleeding, returned to a healthy pink colour, and were no longer spongy.” This is the expected outcome when it comes to regular interdental cleaning; the unexpected part is such a positive compliance outcome.
The numbers Compliance data for interdental cleaning pro duct s is almost univer s ally di s a p p o int in g . T h e re f o re , t h e Ta h ir El e c t r i c F l o s s e r ’s 7 3 % i i i c o n t i n u e d u s e r a t e i s a s i g n i f i c a nt s t at i s t i c – a n d it i s a n u m b e r t h at s h o ul d p r i ck up t h e e a r s o f a ll clin i ci a n s l o o k in g t o m a ke g o o d re co m m e n d at i o n s . A m et h o d t h at p at i e nt s s t a r t a n d s t o p w it h in a m o nt h w ill a ch i e v e n o t h in g .
A new idea; a new solution Tahir Oral Care is a British oral care company founded by Stefan White, someone whose own experience of Crohn’s disease, and the painful mouth ulcers that came with it, made conventional flossing inaccessible. This gave him both the motivation and the insight to develop an alternative. The brand is currently conducting a 1,000 -patient randomised controlled trial with Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistr y. It’s the number one selling oral care brand at Harrods. It launched at the Dentistr y Show London 2025 and sold out across t wo days.
And Stefan’s stated goal – to reduce the propor tion of non-f lossers in the UK from 7 1% to 50% in his lifetime – is one that ever y dental profes sional in the countr y has a reason to get behind. The tools are changing. Let’s watch the statistics change with them. The Tahir Electric Flosser is available for patients at tahiroralcare.com and through Harrods. For practice enquiries and professional ordering, visit tahiroralcare.com. n
References available upon request
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INTERVIEW
From evidence to individual care
Following her participation in Kenvue’s expert advisory board on periodontal health and prevention, Debbie Hemington reflects on how evidence-based recommendations can be tailored to individual patient care You trained at New Cross, the original dental therapy training school, and were one of its last dental therapy graduates before it closed in 1983. Looking back over more than 40 years in dentistry, how has the evidence base around periodontal disease evolved, and what do you see as the biggest challenges facing clinicians and patients today? Debbie: One of the biggest changes has been the growing evidence around what patients can achieve through good home care. We have always known oral hygiene is important, but we now have a much stronger evidence base showing the difference patients themselves can make. The challenge is getting that message across. People often want something that will fix the problem for them immediately, whether that is treatment, an expensive toothbrush or another product, when what really matters is helping them understand the part they can play in their own care long-term. That takes communication skills as well as clinical knowledge. When you first qualify, you may know the theory, but you still have to learn how to communicate it effectively within the time you have with each patient. You recently took part in an advisory board bringing together key opinion leaders from across dentistry to discuss the latest evidence in periodontal health and prevention. What were your biggest takeaways from those discussions? Debbie: What struck me was how much value there was in bringing together people with different perspectives and really listening to each other. There was no hierarchy in the room. Everybody was able to contribute and everybody’s point of view was valued. Much of the discussion The full expert consensus on preventing oral diseases driven by dysbiotic dental plaque biofilm can be accessed here: www.nature.com/articles/s41415-025-9320-0
was about how we could translate the evidence into recommendations that would be most helpful to the profession, and I felt we really got somewhere with that. Why is it important to bring together key opinion leaders from different backgrounds to discuss independent evidence, work towards greater clinical consensus and collaborate with industry in advancing evidence-based practice? Debbie: I think there is a lot to be said for having clinicians who work day-to-day in general practice involved in these discussions alongside those working in hospital, academic and research environments. Ultimately, any recommendations we make have to be applicable to the patient sitting in front of us. That patient may look very different depending on whether you work in general practice, community dentistry or another setting. Mechanical plaque removal remains the foundation of oral hygiene, while the EFP S3 guideline outlines circumstances where adjunctive chemotherapeutic approaches may be considered.¹ What are your thoughts on the current evidence and guidance, and to what extent did the recent advisory board discussions influence your thinking? Debbie: I have been practising for a long time, so the advisory board hasn’t fundamentally changed my approach. Mechanical plaque removal with a fluoridated toothpaste remains central to the advice I give patients, alongside interdental cleaning where appropriate. At the same time, I accept that essential oil mouthwash has been shown to work, and that adjunctive approaches may have a role for some patients.¹ Over the years, I have developed a particular interest in caring for patients experiencing chemotherapy, radiotherapy and oral ulceration. Those experiences have reinforced just how important individualisation is. What one patient can tolerate or benefit from may be completely inappropriate for another.
What role do critical thinking and clinical experience play when applying evidence-based guidance to individual patient care? Debbie: I have always encouraged students to think for themselves. Evidence and guidelines are incredibly valuable, but clinicians still need to read them critically and apply their own judgement. After more than 40 years in dentistry, I am naturally quite sceptical when something is presented as the latest answer to everything. I do not think that is a bad thing. Experience teaches you to ask questions, look carefully at the evidence and consider whether something genuinely adds value for your patient. For me, good clinical care comes back to that combination of evidence, experience and individual patient need. Reference 1. West N, Chapple I, Claydon N, et al. BSP implementation of European S3-level evidencebased treatment guidelines for stage I–III periodontitis in UK clinical practice. Journal of Dentistry. 2021;106:103562. n
ABOUT DEBBIE HEMINGTON
Debbie Hemington is a Dental Therapist and Dental Hygienist, former tutor at Eastman Dental Hospital and President of the British Association of Dental Therapists (BADT). Her career spans general practice, education and hospital dentistry, including experience with a wide range of oral medicine and oncology patients.
This article is sponsored by LISTERINE® | UK-LIS-2026-354333
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To provide added protection in difficult to clean areas such as between teeth and around orthodontic appliances. Whenever compliance with a once-aweek regime is easier to achieve or supervise than a regime carried out daily, and for patients who have difficulty in effectively brushing their teeth.
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improving dentistry together
10/08/2026 15:59 30/09/2026 13:42:28
PRACTICE
Built on trust, driven by comfort Pure Dental Hygiene began with a long-held ambition: to create an independent, direct-access practice where patients could receive high-quality preventive care in a welcoming and accessible environment
I
had worked in Coleraine for around 15 years and had always been proactive in my approach to direct access. I wanted dental hygiene to be more readily available and believed hygienists could play a much greater role in helping patients understand, improve and maintain their oral health. The opportunity to turn that ambition into reality came during the COVID-19 pandemic when my mum sadly passed away and left me some money that enabled me to establish the business. I would, of course, much rather she had been here to see the practice take shape, but knowing that she wanted to help me pursue my dream gave me the determination to move forward. My husband is a builder, so together we took on the enormous task of constructing the practice during lockdown. It was an intense period, with restrictions, supply issues and a great deal of uncertainty, but failure was never an option. Opening the practice required me to make a significant professional transition, developing my role as a clinical hygienist into a wider role - being responsible for business development, practice management and compliance. This was a substantial learning curve, but support from experienced colleagues helped turn this into a structured and manageable process. Since then, our practice has evolved significantly, growing into a reputable business trusted by both our patients and the wider professional community. Clinical Excellence My clinical philosophy is defined by two guiding principles that ensure ever y patient receives the highest standard of care: 1. Compassionate, patient-centred communication: I believe that true care begins with listening. By fostering a welcoming and child-friendly environment, I ensure that every patient feels heard, valued, and comfortable. My approach is built on constant, compassionate care, where I take the necessary time to communicate clearly and build a genuine rapport with every individual who walks through our doors. 2. Collaborative, Proactive Excellence: I am committed to clinical excellence through deep patient education and proactive disease management. This includes working closely with other specialists and referring clinicians to ensure a collaborative approach that always prioritises the patient’s best interests, supported by consistent follow-up to ensure long-term health and stability. We operate six days a week and have a dentist working on-site one day each week, enabling us to provide more comprehensive and coordinated care. A typical day begins with preparation and a review of the patients we are due to see. Each patient’s needs are considered in advance so that treatment remains individualised rather than becoming a routine, one-size-fits-all appointment. Growing alongside our patients We are fortunate to be consistently fully booked, but we still work hard to remain accessible to people who need to be seen quickly. Accessibility was one of the main reasons for opening an independent hygiene
practice, and it continues to guide how the business develops. Building a loyal patient base has been the result of prioritising both connection and quality care. A core part of our approach is cultivating strong, genuine relationships - not only with our patients but also with the referring clinicians and specialists in our network. This collaborative environment ensures that our patients receive consistent, well-coordinated care at ever y stage. Our unwavering focus on clinical excellence, combined with a deep commitment to patient education, has been instrumental. By empowering our patients with the knowledge they need to understand their own oral health, we have fostered the long-term trust and confidence that turns first-time visitors into lifelong patients. The most significant milestone for us was undoubtedly winning the “Dental Practice
of the Year” award in Northern Ireland, a recognition that validates the hard work and dedication of our entire team. What made the achievement particularly meaningful was that the award was entirely patient nominated. Seeing the trust reflected in our daily patient interactions is the true measure of our success - I did not even know that we had been entered, so discovering that patients had taken the time to put the practice forward made it feel even more special! Elevating the patient experience Investing in quality equipment is essential when your primar y focus is clinical excellence. Simply put, you do not compromise on the tools you use to deliver care. Modern periodontal and preventive treatment relies on technology that is not only reliable and efficient but also inherently patient-friendly and comfortable. By utilising high-quality equipment such as
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PRACTICE
a wide variety of specialised tips tailored to each patient’s unique needs, we can ensure that ever y procedure is precise, gentle, and effective. This allows us to maintain the high standards our patients expect while making their experience as comfortable as possible. NSK has been involved with Pure Dental Hygiene from the very beginning, becoming one of the core companies around which the practice was built. When you are establishing an independent clinic, equipment reliability is essential - if a key piece of equipment fails, the consequences affect the entire working day, so having dependable products and accessible local support gave me the reassurance I needed. I rely heavily on ultrasonic treatment, with ultrasonic instrumentation and jet polishing
forming part of the normal clinical workflow for ever y patient (unless there is no clinical indication or they are unable to tolerate it). The NSK Varios Combi Pro2 has changed the way I approach hygiene appointments. The heated water makes treatment noticeably more comfortable for sensitive patients, and the cordless pedal gives more freedom and a smoother workf low. Heated water may sound like a small detail, but from a patient’s perspective it can transform the entire visit. The comment we hear most often afterwards is: “That warm water is a game changer!”. Beyond patient comfort, I’m admittedly neurotic about the safety of our water lines - especially when we’re dealing with heated water. The CLM cleaning feature gives me genuine peace of mind. It’s not just a feature; it’s a standard of care that reassures me we’re maintaining those lines at the highest level. Knowing that the system is actively decontaminating the circuit makes me confident in the quality of care we’re delivering ever y single day. The impor tant dif ference is that the requirement is not easily forgotten or treated as an additional task. That “box is ticked” naturally, because the process is part of the machine’s makeup and normal operation. It is not something the team has to stop and separately consider; it is embedded within the daily running and maintenance of the unit. As a practice owner responsible for compliance, it provides genuine peace of mind. It allows us to demonstrate that waterline care is not merely written into a policy but is consistently carried out in practice. Having a fully integrated NSK clinic has been a game-changer for our workflow. The autoclave gives us total peace of mind with our sterilisation standards, while the precision and ergonomics of the handpieces make ever y procedure smoother and more efficient. When you add the VCP2 into the mix, it really elevates
the entire patient experience. Ever ything works together seamlessly, which allows our team to focus entirely on delivering the best possible care rather than worr ying about our equipment. Support beyond installation Our local Product Specialist, Asnain, has been invaluable to our practice. He is incredibly knowledgeable and efficient, always ensuring our equipment is running at its best. What truly sets him apart is his proactive approach; he anticipates our needs and resolves any questions or concerns immediately. His friendly, professional demeanour makes him a pleasure to work with, and he has become a trusted partner in our daily operations. NSK Product Specialists don’t just install the units, they take the time to ensure the entire team understand how to get the absolute best performance out of them. This helps us minimise operational errors and ensure our workflow remains seamless. Having that level of support from the start gave us total confidence in our equipment. As a hygienist who once dreamed of opening an independent practice, I am proud of how Pure Dental Hygiene has evolved. The business has grown, the team has developed and our patients continue to place their trust in us. n
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JOANNE KNOX
Joanne is a Company Director and Principle Hygienist at Pure Dental Hygiene.
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PRACTICE
Mandatory compliance – AI receptionists
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hat is understood as artificial intelligence (AI) has been operating for many years, from sorting the spam in your inbox to facial recognition patterns and voice-activated operations. The future has since arrived, with AI tools found everywhere, all around us. They are transforming workplaces, changing the economy and streamlining many aspects of the daily workflow. This is all especially true for dentistry. The emergence of AI systems has enhanced dental practices through such avenues as appointment note-taking using advanced audio transcription software and improved diagnosis support when scanning the dentition. In fact, NHS organisations across England are being urged to integrate AI solutions from a national registry of 19 suppliers.i To further optimise patient engagement, AI receptionists have also left a lasting impression, one that feels like an inevitable staple for all dental practices. But how much do you know about their role and how can patient compliance be maintained in a way that is mandatory for NHS patients and the gold standard for private practices? How AI receptionists work An AI receptionist for dental practices is a software that relieves the administrative team of simple yet time-consuming tasks. This includes answering patient calls, booking and managing appointments, and handling enquiries. For instance, a patient’s concern for car parking space can be quickly alleviated through the AI receptionist, without the need to wait in a phone call queue and listen to hold music. Furthermore, the practice’s administrative team are able to focus on more important tasks: checking patients in, taking payments and supporting the dental team. The best AI receptionist systems can act independently, resolving a patient’s problem without sending them through to a member of the team. But ensuring compliance can be difficult and is the hurdle that many AI platforms are failing on.
Safe data management Once set-up, the AI receptionist will receive calls, read who the patient is, when they last visited and which dentist they saw. Depending on the need of the patient, the system will then find practitioner schedules, dentist availability and the practice information to help resolve the issue. This is a considerable amount of data to sift through, with even more created if appointments are booked or rescheduled. Compliance is therefore paramount to safeguard both the dental team and patients. AI receptionists can identif y patterns that could indicate compliance issues, such as checking that the correct documentation has been completed by the patient before an appointment. But what happens if the AI fails to address a dental health issue? It is mandatory for dental practices to comply with the Data Protection Act 2018ii and the UK General Data Protection Regulation,iii with the risk of a fine for NHS practices that are not compliant. This could reach a maximum penalty of £17.5 million, or 4% of the annual turnover in the preceding financial year,iv if a patient’s personal data is not correctly handled. For instance, if a patient contacts the practice regarding an oral lesion, and the AI overlooks this issue, there is an issue over compliancy: who is at fault, the software or the practice? The answer is both, with the dentist potentially losing their registration. Elsewhere, if an AI tool advertises that it “triages emergency patients”, that statement effectively defines the tool’s purpose in the eyes of regulators and if the dentist or the patient expects the platform to perform clinical prioritisation, the software is no longer an administrative assistant but is legally categorised as a medical device. Check the policy For now, AI-driven administrative tools revolutionise simple tasks. However, it is recommended that you ask the company for the Digital Technology Assessment Criteria (DTAC) evidence pack. To
reduce the risk of a claim caused by AI error, various considerations to prepare for include data breaches, inaccurate content or AI ‘hallucinations’, or decision-making errors. AI use for administrative tasks should also be declared. Reliable robotics In a time where modern patients expect immediate responses, RoboReception AI can meet the current demands of a busy workflow, whilst staying compliant for both NHS and private practices. Trusted by over 1,500 dentists, practice managers and patient coordinators, to grow a more profitable practice, RoboReception AI shoulders everyday tasks to free up the administrative team, engaging with new patients and improving the recall rate for existing ones to drive growth and beat the competition. The use of AI in dentistry is an exciting wave that continues to gain strength. Daily administrative tasks can take time, but AI receptionists can make the process more efficient. However, dental practices must be compliant in how patient data is used, ensuring that both the team and the patient base are suitably protected and clinically safe. To find out more visit www.roboreception.co.uk or call us on 07511 085684 n
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
DONNA HEWITT
Donna is Operations Director at RoboReception
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PRACTICE
Know your decontamination actives Hypochlorous acid emerged in the pandemic years as a reliable solution for fighting enveloped viruses like COVID-19. More recently, the acid has side-stepped into the dermatology industry, with social media trends encouraging the use of it to treat skin conditions like acnei
T
he range of applications that hypochlorous acid has do come with certain drawbacks, however. For dental practices, its use in infection control should be treated with a degree of caution: its effectiveness is dependent on diligent management. So how suitable is it? From cell beginnings Considering its role in eliminating coronaviruses, it may surprise that hypochlorous acid is naturally created in the body. Neutrophils, the most common type of white blood cell, attack invading pathogens and produce the acid in response to injury and infection.ii At sites of inflammation it binds with the cell membrane and disrupts cellular activity to eliminate bacteria.iii It’s pH range is 3-6 for aqueous solutions, with 3.5-5 considered a stable form that maximises antimicrobial activities and minimises undesirable side products.ii One of the advantages of hypochlorous acid is that it is easy to make in laboratories. In 8 minutes, the combination and electrolysis of water, non-iodised salt and vinegar can create the acid at a higher, safer pH of 5-6.5 that is ready to use for disinfection against a broad range of microorganisms.iii For healthcare providers, hypochlorous acid that meets regulatory requirements can be used for wound care, hand hygiene, surface application and, of note to dental professionals, to target biofilm. Role in the water lines Dental unit water lines (DUWLs) are the arteries of the dental practice, and as such the water quality must be regularly checked and maintained. Untreated DUWLs coated in biofilm allow microorganisms to disperse through the water network, eventually posing a risk to the patient and dental team through the aerosolisation of the water.iv Biofilm formation occurs when microorganisms attach to the inner surface of the waterlines. Despite being a complex process, it can easily occur if infection control is inconsistent.iv Flushing the lines that deliver water, recommended with the handpieces off, reduces the microbial count, but the biofilm can still adhere to the inner wall and contaminate the water, hence the need for a chemical solution that eliminates harmful bacteria and prevents biofilm formation.iv
Drawbacks The consistent use of hypochlorous acid faces several challenges. Chiefly, exposure to sunlight or UV radiation reduces the chlorine concentration after 4 days, destabilising the solution and making it less effective. The acid also has a short shelf life, with air contact causing the pH to rise towards neutral levels.iii Because of this, hypochlorous acid must be stored in a cool dark place, placing a limitation on its use. Another drawback is that any errors in measurements causes delays in time and product waste (especially when considering that the antimicrobial activity of the solution is dependent on the optimal pH).v Some formulations may require a thorough rinse out of the waterlines before the end of each working day – this can be a further inconvenience and runs the risk of being overlooked.
The Dentisan product range is filled with reliable infection control solutions. For managing DUWLs, BioClear Daily supports water maintenance by reducing the planktonic bacteria count. The excellent material compatibility and ease of use means a seamless integration into the daily workflow, with prepared solutions lasting up to 10 days when stored in suitable plastic containers. Continuous use of BioClear Daily ultimately ensures compliance with HTM 01-05, keeping the dental team and patients safe. The widespread use of hypochlorous acid has many benefits in healthcare. However, the need for correct infection control protocols can limit its effectiveness for treating DUWLs due to several drawbacks. Dental practices must therefore find the very best solutions for daily use, guaranteeing ease of use and optimal outcomes. n
A reliable solution For cleaning DUWLs, the long-term application of a chemical solution means it must have a low corrosivity and a minimal impact on the equipment – a more acidic pH will corrode DUWLs and the dental equipment, such as plastic tubing, O-rings and any adhesives inside the dental unit. Such damage will impact efficiency and lead to costly repairs. Dental practices therefore need a disinfectant and maintenance solution that must be non-toxic when it enters a patient’s mouth, and does not interfere with any bonding or restorative work. It must also be noncorrosive, effective in various forms, and relatively inexpensive. For a stamp of quality assurance, water quality outcomes should be verified by the dental practice too.
References available upon request
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
JENNY NIXON
Jenny is Business Development Director at Dentisan
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New TePe
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PRACTICE
Maximising the lifespan of decontamination equipment
T
he correct dental team training, product maintenance, and regular monitoring can help to prevent most issues that might contribute to decontamination equipment failure. Approximately 91.8% of autoclave failures, for example, are caused by human error.i Often, this will lead to disruption, compromise compliance, and pose health risks – meaning that practice downtime is necessary for repairs. As such, ensuring the team that operates the equipment is confident with daily maintenance, in order to prevent issues occurring, is essential. Common mistakes in daily workflows Day-to-day, there are a number of factors that may contribute to failed decontamination. Often, these are aspects that members of the team may overlook, or not realise the significance of. For example, a common mistake is the overloading of the autoclave chamber, restricting the steam circulation – stacking the autoclave as recommended by the manufacturer allows the steam to penetrate effectively. Inadequate pre-cleaning of instruments can also render the sterilisation process ineffective. This means that thorough cleaning – ideally using a washer disinfector or ultrasonic cleaner – prior to sterilisation is needed, removing any blood, tissue, or debris. This ensures that steam can reach all the surfaces and completely remove microorganisms.i Frequent maintenance and water quality Regular maintenance of autoclaves can help to reduce the risk of equipment failure, with early detection of any issues helpful for minimising this too. Keeping on top of frequent maintenance tasks helps to ensure proper sterilisation is taking place. Water quality, for example, is a key factor that can affect the performance of an autoclave in the long-term – with the use of tap or filtered water, instead of distilled or RO water, leading to calcium or magnesium deposits building up inside the machine. When these deposits are on components such as the heating elements,
sensors, or valves, they can result in reduced efficiency and slow cycle times. To address this, changing the water every day, and testing the water quality regularly will help to prevent and catch problems early. i Other maintenance issues that might crop up include damage to the door gaskets, responsible for creating an airtight seal which is required to maintain effective sterilisation. Over time, the seals can wear out, meaning they can no longer hold the necessary pressure and need replacing (usually every 1-2 years). Additionally, steam and waste pathways should be kept clear to maintain optimal autoclave performance. Blockages in areas like the chamber filters and drain strainers can disrupt steam penetration and prevent proper drainage. Routinely checking each of these areas will help to prevent potential issues occurring and keep equipment working as it should.i Testing and monitoring for long term success Once measures have been put in place to prevent and maintain equipment, it’s important to consistently monitor and test to ensure any issues or failures are detected as early as possible. This should be carried out through a few key methods: mechanical monitoring (essential before every cycle to ensure correct temperature and pressure can be achieved),i helix tests for the daily steam penetration test of type ‘B’ vacuum autoclaves, and TST indicator to check conditions for sterility have been met for type ‘N’ non-vacuum autoclave cycles. Completing these checks frequently, as recommended by the manufacturer, ensures the requirements for HTM 01-05ii/SHTM 01-05 are met. Support and CPD to maintain high standards In order to get the very best out of decontamination equipment, it’s important to have professional service and support on hand when you need it. This not only means fast help when equipment breaks down, but also annual compliance checks and training for the dental team.
Eschmann, as part of its Care & Cover plans, offers enhanced CPD user training for its customers. All Eschmann engineers are able to provide this training to dental practice staff – exclusively for those with Care & Cover contracts – at no extra cost. This helps those who use Eschmann decontamination equipment every day understand how to use it correctly, perform regular maintenance, and recognise when something isn’t quite right. Care & Cover customers also benefit from Annual Validation & Pressure Vessel Certification, Annual Service & Software Upgrades, Unlimited Breakdown Cover, Unlimited Parts & Labour, Nationwide On-site Support, and Technical Telephone Support. When the dental team is confident in their ability to carry out effective daily workflows and maintenance, practices can maximise the longevity of their decontamination equipment. In turn, this results in reduced practice downtime, and leads to fewer issues occurring in the long-term. For more information on the highly effective range of infection control products from Eschmann, including the industry-leading autoclave range, please visit www.eschmann. co.uk or call 01903 753322 n
References available upon request
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
NICKY VARNEY,
Nicky
Varney,
Head
of
Marketing
at
Eschmann Technologies Ltd.
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D
ental pain is one of the most acute and debilitating forms of discomfort a patient can experience. i It disrupts eating, concentration, sleep, and work and it rarely arrives at a convenient time. For those unable to access an appointment immediately, the hours and days spent waiting for treatment can be genuinely distressing. As a clinician, what you recommend in that window can have a huge impact. Orajel® offers a trusted option for patients managing dental pain at home – delivering fast, targeted relief ii while they await definitive treatment. Rapid relief Unlike systemic oral analgesics, which can take up to an hour to take effect, Orajel ® is formulated with benzocaine, ii a local anaesthetic that is clinically proven to relieve dental pain in two minutes or less. iii Benzocaine is rapidly absorbed through the oral mucosa, reversibly binding to and inhibiting sodium
channels in nerve cell membranes, blocking the conduction of nerve impulses and reducing pain signal transmission directly at the source.ii This kind of speed is significant to patients. Research suggests that 63% of patients prioritise speed in pain relief ii – and for someone who has been kept awake by toothache, fast relief is a real reprieve. Targeted application Orajel® is applied directly to the affected area, putting patients in control of their own pain management. This precision delivers localised relief where it is needed most, without the systemic absorption associated with oral analgesics. Its non-systemic formulation and minimal drug interactions make it well tolerated across a broad range of patients – including those already taking other medications – and it can be used alongside systemic analgesics for enhanced pain management where required.ii The right option for every patient The Orajel® range offers clinicians the flexibility to match the product to the patient’s needs. Orajel® Dental Gel contains 10% w/w benzocaine, providing rapid relief for everyday dental pain associated with broken or fractured teeth, dental decay, loose fillings, or receding gums.ii Orajel ® Extra Strength contains 20% w/w benzocaine – the maximum concentration available without prescription – for patients experiencing more severe or acute dental pain.iv 87% of patients experience significant pain relief with Orajel® Extra Strength.v Orajel® Mouth Gel contains 10% w/w benzocaine for patients with mouth ulcers or denture pain, offering the same fast, targeted approach to oral pain relief beyond toothache.vi All products can be applied up to four times daily for no longer than four days, providing consistent relief while patients wait for their appointment.
Anxiety, pain, and a cycle clinicians can help break The relationship between pain and psychology is especially significant for dentally anxious patients. Research consistently shows us that anxiety amplifies pain perception,vii meaning anxious patients may genuinely experience greater distress in response to pain while additionally delaying seeking treatment or disengaging from dental care altogether. A patient who has spent several sleepless nights with unmanaged toothache is likely to arrive at their appointment in a heightened state of discomfort and anxiety, neither of which are conducive to a positive clinical experience. Providing these anxious patients with an effective and easy-to-use pain relief option therefore serves a dual purpose. It manages the immediate physical symptom and, in doing so, reduces the psychological burden of waiting. Feeling in control of their pain, even partially, can meaningfully reduce the sense of helplessness that dental anxiety so often produces. For patients who already associate dental visits with fear, a clinician who takes their interim discomfort seriously and offers practical support builds the trust that keeps them engaged with their care long term. In this context, recommending a solution such as Orajel® becomes a part of delivering patientcentred care – not just pain management. Recommending Orajel ® is a straightforward step in helping patients manage their pain, reduce their distress, and arrive at their treatment appointment in a better position. In the time between pain onset and treatment, that support makes a real difference. For essential information, and to see the full range of Orajel® products, please visit https:// www.orajelhcp.co.uk/ n
References available upon request
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RAPID RELIEF AT THE ROOT OF PAIN1-3 4 IN JUST RAPID RESPONSE Clinically proven to get to work in under , relieving acute 4 dental pain. TARGETED RELIEF Benzocaine provides effective relief right at the source of dental pain.1-3 TRUSTED TOLERANCE Orajel’s non-systemic formula is well-tolerated with minimal risk of side effects.1,2,4 WILL ORAJEL BE YOUR RECOMMENDATION FOR TARGETED, RAPID PAIN RELIEF?
UNDERSTAND THE SCIENCE BEHIND ORAJEL WATCH THE MODE OF ACTION VIDEO Provides up to 2 hours of relief.4 Adverse events should be reported. Reporting forms and information can be found at https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/. Adverse events should also be reported to Church & Dwight +44(0) 808 175 6410 Orajel Dental Gel (GSL). Benzocaine 10% w/w. For temporary rapid relief of toothache pain associated with presence of open carious lesions and direct exposure of a vital dental pulp. Orajel Extra Strength (P). Benzocaine 20% w/w. For temporary rapid relief of toothache pain associated with presence of open carious lesions and direct exposure of a vital dental pulp. Church & Dwight UK Ltd., Premier House, Shearway Business Park, Pent Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 4RJ. Information about this product, including adverse reactions, precautions, contra-indications, and method of use can be found at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1230/smpc https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1229/smpc REFERENCES: 1. Orajel Dental Gel. Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/1230/smpc Accessed: November 2024 2. Orajel Extra Strength. Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/ product/1231/smpc Accessed: November 2024 3. Lee, H-S. Recent advances in topical anesthesia. J Dent Anesth Pain Med. 2016;16(4):237–244. 4. Hersh, EV, et al. An evaluation of 10 percent and 20 percent benzocaine gels in patients with acute toothache. J Am Dent Assoc. 2013;144(5):517–526. O035 | April 2025
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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
Improving implant care with Waterpik™
Dental implants are an increasingly common restorative solution for an aging population, with enhanced outcomes and improved aesthetics developing every day. Patients hope that this treatment will last them many, many years to come, if not the rest of their lifetime
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any patients will know the alternative treatments available to them and discuss these with their clinician. Complete dentures, removable partial dentures and fixed partial dentures may all be suitable depending on an individual’s needs – but the decision to proceed with implants is an incredible commitment of time, money and trust. To ensure these restorations bring the most joy to patients, they must have the tools available to aid their success and minimise the risk of implant failure. Waterpik™ provides a range of effective solutions for patients, each designed to optimise oral hygiene and keep smiles going for longer.
An inbuilt 1-minute timer with a 30-second pacer ensures patients clean for an allotted period – in the same way that patients need to keep to two minutes to see the full benefits of toothbrushing, a minimum water flossing period ensures individuals can thoroughly target the entire dentition. The research also backs this as an effective addition to patient routines, with it being up to twice as effective as string floss for removing bacterial plaque and improving gum health. ii When used with the Plaque Seeker™ Tip, which is suited to single implant restorations, it is once again up to twice as effective for improving gingival health around implants when compared to traditional floss. iii
Patient-first design To support patients with multi-unit implants, Waterpik™ presents the Implant Denture Tip, which enables patients to access hard-to-reach areas. This ensures plaque, bacteria and debris can be removed when other oral hygiene methods, including standard toothbrushing, consistently fail. A unique curved design means patients can access underneath and around implant supported bridges and dentures at lingual sites. It can be easily interchanged with solutions including the Precision Tip for predictable cleaning throughout the rest of the dentition. The solution is built upon an extended body of scientific research, as Waterpik™ has more than 80+ clinical studies backing each solution. This includes the findings that, when used with a Waterpik™ Countertop Ultra Professional water flosser, the Implant Denture Tip is able to remove up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas in as little as three seconds.i That’s thorough and efficient cleaning before a patient goes about their day. The Implant Denture Tip is only compatible with the Countertop Ultra Professional water
Choose a brand you trust Waterpik™ solutions are designed with the patient in mind. Looking after restorations such as implants requires high-quality, predictable cleaning routines that optimise outcomes. When patients are considering their oral hygiene aid options, it’s important to choose a reputable brand. Where some items may lack clinical findings, Waterpik™ stands out with 80+ research studies, tested in a wide variety of ways. Waterpik™ is also the only water flosser brand to be approved by the Oral Health Foundation, and all of this adds up to Waterpik™ being the #1 water flosser brand recommended by dentists.iv Help your patients choose solutions that protect their implants for years to come. Recommend by brand. Recommend Waterpik™. For more information on Waterpik™ water flosser products visit w w w.waterpik.co.uk. Waterpik™ products are available from Amazon, Costco UK, Argos, Boots and Tesco online and in stores across the UK and Ireland. n
flosser, which uses an ergonomic handle with an on/off switch. This helps patients with dexterity issues, who may otherwise struggle to manage their restorations. Professional water flossing The Countertop Ultra Professional water flosser is designed to maximise oral hygiene outcomes whilst offering a completely tailored experience. The unit features 10 pressure settings, which patients can change depending on their comfort and sensitivity throughout the dentition. Patients will also find the benefits of two flossing modes, each designed to improve different outcomes. The Floss Mode helps patients target plaque and bacteria, whilst a Hydro-Pulse Massage Mode enables gentle gum stimulation.
References available upon request
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Oral health across the lifespan Learning objectives • To understand how oral health needs and risks change across the different stages of life • To recognise the key preventive priorities for children, adolescents, adults, and older patients • To apply tailored, age-appropriate oral health advice that supports lifelong dentition.
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hat a patient needs from the dental team at three years old is very different to what they need at thirty, and even more so to what matters at eighty. Diet, dexterity, medication, motivation, and the gradual effects of ageing all matter at different points, and advice that isn’t respective to each phase is unhelpful. An identical approach to care
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rarely works for a toddler, a teenager, and a pensioner alike. Understanding how these priorities shift puts the dental team in a far stronger position to give preventive advice that actually remains relevant to each individual. The principles do not change much, but rather, the way they are delivered, and to whom, makes a significant difference.
The early years Good oral health starts younger than many parents realise. Tooth decay is still the most common oral disease in children despite being almost entirely preventable, and the numbers bear this out. The 2024 oral health survey of five- to nine-year-olds in England saw tooth decay outdo all other common childhood conditions, including acute
Brush Up on CPD
GDC Development Outcome: C
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tonsillitis, as the leading cause of hospital admissions. i Decay also most heavily affects those from deprived communities, where children are much more likely to be affected than peers in wealthier areas, and prevalence also varies between ethnic groups. ii Early intervention matters most, specifically for the families who find it hardest to access care on a regular basis, which is why education from parents/ guardians and a proactive dental team is most necessary. Diet is a significant factor at this early stage. Controlling sugar consumption, supervising brushing with an ageappropriate fluoride toothpaste and the right techniques, whilst normalising regular check-ups all build strong foundations that pay off for a lifetime. Population-wide measures can also help reduce the level of dental disease.
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Adolescence and young adulthood Everything changes in adolescence. Parents are no longer at the forefront of supporting and supervising brushing and diet, and routines can become chaotic and sporadic. However, one upside that the dental team can benefit from is that teenagers often care about how they look, and appearance is often a more persuasive incentive than any lecture. Behaviour changes arguably matter more than anything else at this age, as they may establish a routine for life. Teenagers are prone to ignoring advice that they perceive as nagging – whereas minor, realistic asks tend to be maintained. iii Twice-daily brushing with interdental steps and sensible diet decisions that are both sustained allow individuals to more easily embed habits that carry through to adulthood,
if they are framed as manageable rather than a major step. Importantly, consistency beats intensity, and saying so out loud takes the pressure off. iv
Adulthood By adulthood, oral health encompasses mostly maintenance and managing risks as they accumulate. Smoking, alcohol, diet, and stress all have consequences on oral health, and are also major risk factors for a plethora of systemic conditions too, which is part of why the oral-general health link is worth introducing to patients in appointments. v The most practical obstacle for most adults is that of time. Adults are stretched between various areas of life. From work and family to social lives, comprehensive and consistent oral hygiene often falls down the list
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of importance – particularly in periods where life gets busier. Keeping these patients engaged in sustaining oral hygiene means offering advice that fits the life they actually lead rather than an idealised version of it. Tying oral health back to overall wellbeing is one of the more reliable ways to keep someone motivated when enthusiasm falters. vi Routine oral health examination appointments are more than a simple ‘check-up’. They offer an opportunity to identify problems while they are still treatable, and allow the clinician to give specific, targeted advice which can not only improve their patients’ oral health, but their general health too.
Multiple elements often compound in later life. Arthritic hands and reduced grip and dexterity make a toothbrush more difficult to manipulate. Dry mouth, very often a side effect of polypharmacy in older patients, diminishes saliva's natural defences and leaves teeth more exposed to decay. viii Receding gums also make less resistant root surfaces more exposed to acid, whilst memory or cognitive changes can quietly destroy a routine that may have been consistently maintained for decades. ix Advice must meet these patients respectively, ensuring that each case is treated with independence and consideration to the individual. That might mean recommending brushes and aids that support shaky hands or limited dexterity or reducing the steps involved whilst preserving the outcome. Another method of support is by attempting to involve a family member, spouse, or carer in the conversation so that the key messages do not rely on the patient’s memory alone. For higherrisk patients, seeing them more often is important to reinforce advice and ensure oral hygiene routines are being maintained in an effective manner.
interdental brushes come in 11 sizes with an extendable cap which acts as a handle, giving a comfortable, thorough clean even when grip is limited. Used with PREVENT Gel, which pairs 900 ppm fluoride with 0.12% chlorhexidine, patients get both enamel-strengthening support and an antibacterial boost that suits gums and teeth at any stage of life (over the age of 3) xi
Supporting patients for life The oral health status a person brings to the chair at five is almost entirely different to their experience at eightyfive, and the advice should reflect that. Taking into account the life stage of the individual and the specific challenges and opportunities that presents can lead to meaningful support and avoids generalising the patient with generic instruction. This can lead to lasting health improvements for years to come. n References available upon request
Older patients More people are maintaining their natural teeth into old age, which is of course, something to celebrate. Yet, an aging dentition may have more potential for complications and disease. Root caries, periodontal disease, and tooth wear all become more likely in a partially dentate older patient – frequently alongside a list of other health problems, sometimes bidirectionally too. vii
A consistent preventive approach Most oral disease can be deterred at any age. x What differs is the delivery, based on respective dexterity, holistic health, motivation, lifestyle, and risk profile of each patient. Interdental cleaning runs through every one of these stages of life, and the right tool facilitates the implementation of oral hygiene advice. TANDEX
About the author Jacob Watwood on behalf of TANDEX.
To answer the questions below, visit cpd.the-probe.co.uk and register/log in. Click on ‘Courses’. Search for the course with the same headline as the corresponding article. CPD questions – Oral health across the lifespan
2. According to the 2024 survey referenced in the text, what was most common condition to cause hospital treatment in five-year-olds in England? a) Tooth decay b) Tonsillitis c) Chickenpox d) Asthma 3. What is the key approach when supporting adolescents with oral health? a) Restorative treatment only b) Removing the need for interdental cleaning c) Motivation and achievable behaviour change d) Avoiding all dietary advice
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4. Why are older patients at increased risk of root caries? a) b) c) d)
Improved saliva production with age Reduced dexterity, xerostomia, and gingival recession Lower retention of natural teeth Enhanced immune function
5. Which principle remains consistent across all life stages? a) b) c) d)
Emergency-only attendance Avoidance of fluoride Identical advice regardless of patient circumstances None of the above
6. Which product combination supports both fluoride uptake and antibacterial action across the lifespan? a) b) c) d)
Non-fluoride toothpaste alone Interdental brushes used without gel TANDEX interdental brushes combined with PREVENT Gel Brushing with water only
Brush Up on CPD
1. Why is a one-size-fits-all approach to oral health advice often ineffective? a) All patients have identical oral health needs b) Needs and risks change considerably across the lifespan c) Preventive advice is only relevant for children d) Older patients no longer require oral health support
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Chlorhexidine in oral healthcare Learning objectives • To understand the mechanism of action of chlorhexidine and the basis of its substantivity • To recognise the appropriate clinical indications for chlorhexidine and the limits of its evidence base • To apply sound principles of concentration, formulation, and duration when recommending chlorhexidine. GDC Development Outcome: C
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hlorhexidine is the most widely used antiseptic in dentistry, yet its very familiarity can lead to use that is neither evidence-based nor clinically appropriate. A clear understanding of how the molecule works, and how its concentration and duration should be used in differing indications, allows the dental team to prescribe it with precision rather than out of habit.
negative organisms and fungi, with weaker activity against Gram-negatives. ii Its defining clinical property is substantivity. Chlorhexidine binds to the acquired pellicle, enamel, and oral mucosa, then releases slowly over the following hours, maintaining effective concentrations for around eight to twelve hours after a single application. This sustained release is what distinguishes it from most other antiseptic agents and reinforces its twice-daily use allowance. iii
Mechanism of action Chlorhexidine is a cationic bisbiguanide. i Its positively charged molecule binds to the negatively charged bacterial cell wall, disrupting membrane integrity, and causing leakage of cytoplasmic contents; it is bacteriostatic at low concentrations and bactericidal at higher ones. It is active against Gram-positive and Gram-
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impairment. In each of these situations the common rationale is the same: namely that the patient cannot achieve adequate biofilm control by mechanical cleaning only. iv Its role in caries prevention is far less certain. While chlorhexidine reduces Streptococcus mutans counts, controlled trials and systematic reviews have not demonstrated reliable caries reduction from chlorhexidine alone, and it should not be presented to patients as a caries-preventive measure in its own right. v
Indications Chlorhexidine is the highest standard chemical agent for plaque control and the management of gingivitis. It is most valuable where mechanical cleaning is temporarily compromised or impossible, including post oral surgery and in patients with physical or cognitive
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is designed to support patients who need ongoing antibacterial assistance alongside enamel protection. The choice between these should be recommended to patients based on whether they require brief and intensive support or more sustained and preventive. xi TANDEX PREVENT Gel perfectly offers both, pairing 900 ppm fluoride with 0.12% chlorhexidine so that biofilm control and mineralisation are addressed together. Applied with an interdental brush, it allows targeted delivery to the sites at greatest risk, supporting patients across a range of needs without the intensity of a high-strength rinse. xii
Concentration and formulation
Duration
Chlorhexidine mouth rinse is most commonly supplied at 0.12% and 0.2%. Systemic reviews indicate no clinically significant difference between the two concentrations in controlling plaque and gingivitis, while the higher concentration is associated with more frequent adverse effects. vi As such, for most patients, 0.12% offers a better balance of effectiveness and tolerability, as long as an adequate volume is used for the recommended contact time of around one minute. vii An alcohol-free formulation further reduces mucosal irritation and improves compliance, particularly in patients with dry or sensitive mucosa. viii Gels and varnishes extend the options of delivery. Gels allow targeted application, are useful for localised sites and for patients who cannot manage a rinse, and may be combined with fluoride to address both biofilm and mineralisation through distinct mechanisms. ix
Chlorhexidine is intended for shortcourse use. Extrinsic brown staining of teeth, restorations and the tongue is the most common adverse effect, a direct consequence of the same cationic binding that drives its efficacy. For these reasons, courses are generally restricted, and prescriptions should specify both concentration and duration rather than being open-ended. x
Daily courses These considerations explain the difference between a short course of high-strength rinse and a lowerconcentration product designed for regular use. A 0.2% rinse delivers intensive short-term control where mechanical cleaning has failed, but carries a greater side-effect burden and is unsuitable for extended use. A lowerconcentration formulation, particularly one combining chlorhexidine with fluoride,
Conclusion Chlorhexidine remains indispensable, but its value depends on appropriate selection and professional recommendation. Matching concentration, formulation, durationto each respective clinical indication, rather than defaulting to a routine prescription in a more generalised manner ensures patients gain its benefits while minimising side effects and negative outcomes. n References available upon request
About the author Jacob Watwood on behalf of TANDEX.
To answer the questions below, visit cpd.the-probe.co.uk and register/log in. Click on ‘Courses’. Search for the course with the same headline as the corresponding article.
1. Chlorhexidine is best described as which type of molecule? a) b) c) d)
Anionic fluoride A cationic bisbiguanide A fluorescent An ammonium enzyme
2. What does the term "substantivity" refer to in the context of chlorhexidine? a) b) c) d)
Its ability to remineralise early carious lesions Its binding to oral surfaces and slow release, maintaining effective concentrations for around eight to twelve hours Its bactericidal action at low concentrations Its capacity to penetrate dentinal tubules
3. What does the current evidence indicate about chlorhexidine and caries prevention according to the article? a) b) c) d)
It reliably prevents caries when used alone It reduces Streptococcus mutans counts It is more effective than fluoride for caries prevention It has no measurable effect on oral bacteria
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4. Comparing 0.12% and 0.2% chlorhexidine mouth rinse, the evidence suggests: a) 0.2% is significantly more effective at controlling plaque and gingivitis b) There is no clinically significant difference in controlling plaque and gingivitis, but the higher concentration causes more frequent adverse effects c) 0.12% causes considerably more staining than 0.2% d) Neither concentration has any effect on gingivitis 5. What is the most common adverse effect of chlorhexidine, and why is use kept to short courses? a) Permanent enamel erosion caused by its acidity b) Extrinsic brown staining of teeth, restorations and the tongue, a direct consequence of the same cationic binding that drives its efficacy c) Gingival overgrowth from prolonged contact d) Irreversible loss of taste 6. What is the rationale for combining chlorhexidine with fluoride in a single product, such as TANDEX PREVENT Gel? a) To increase the alcohol content for stronger action b) To address biofilm control and mineralisation together c) To replace the need for any mechanical cleaning d) To eliminate the risk of staining entirely
Brush Up on CPD
CPD questions – Chlorhexidine in oral healthcare
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EVENTS
Rethinking orofacial pain
Improving the diagnosis of orofacial pain can prevent unnecessary treatment and transform patient outcomes. Ahead of her Dentistry Show London presentation this October, Professor Tara Renton explains how
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ne of the biggest challenges that I see in dental practice is recognising when pain is not coming from the tooth at all. Toothache is one of the most common reasons patients seek dental care, yet there are around 200 different pain diagnoses that can occur above the neck, many of which can mimic toothache. That means patients can undergo repeated restorations, root canal treatment or even extractions, only to discover that the underlying cause of their pain was something different. The consequences can be profound; patients continue to live with persistent pain while clinicians become increasingly frustrated that treatment is not delivering the expected outcome. That is why I believe one of the most important skills we can develop is recognising when something is not adding up. If the treatment is not working, do not keep repeating it. Ask yourself a simple question: ‘what else could be causing this?’ Looking beyond the tooth Dentists are trained very well to diagnose toothache caused by dental disease, but conditions such as migraine, cervicogenic referred pain, temporomandibular disorders and neuropathic pain can all present in a very similar way. More rarely, serious pathology such as cancer can also mimic toothache, and that is something you do not want to miss. One of the reasons these patients remain so challenging is that we are all trained in silos. If you go to a dentist with pain, you are likely to have dental treatment. If you go to a neurologist, you are likely to be prescribed medication. If you go to an ENT surgeon, you may undergo investigations or treatment that are entirely appropriate for their specialty. We all have our own perspective because that is how we are trained. There is a famous saying that if the only tool you have is a hammer, every problem looks like a nail, and I think that describes healthcare remarkably well. Thinking differently about diagnosis What really helps is taking a structured approach to diagnosis. We now have the first International Classification of Orofacial Pain, which gives us a much clearer framework for understanding both acute and chronic pain conditions. Just as importantly, it reminds us that not all pain has the same underlying mechanism, and that is fundamental to choosing the right management pathway. Perhaps the biggest change I have seen during my career is recognising that we cannot manage many of these patients in isolation. I do not think we can sit in a room and diagnose and manage every patient by ourselves anymore. We need a much more multidisciplinary approach, and we also need to understand the patient, not just the pain. When I assess someone now, I am not just thinking about where the pain is, when it started or what caused it. I am also thinking about whether they are
Tara Renton is Professor of Oral Surgery at King’s College London and an internationally recognised authority on trigeminal nerve injuries and orofacial pain. Through her research, education and clinical practice, she has dedicated her career to improving the diagnosis and management of complex pain conditions. She is also the founder of orofacialpain.org.uk and trigeminalnerve.org.uk. sleeping, whether they have anxiety or depression, whether they have experienced trauma, and all the other factors that can make someone more susceptible to chronic pain or increase its severity. We now have screening tools that help identify where patients may need additional support. That holistic approach has transformed the way we understand these patients, alongside exciting advances in imaging. For the first time, we are beginning to see nerves on MRI scans, which could help us identify nerve injuries much earlier and optimise outcomes for patients. As our understanding continues to grow, we have greater confidence to stop, draw breath and think differently. Sometimes the most important decision we make is not which treatment to provide next but recognising when it is time to reconsider the diagnosis and involve another colleague. Supporting better decisions I also think AI has enormous potential to support clinicians, but it should never replace clinical judgement. Dentistry is already embracing AI, particularly in areas such as imaging, and I am involved in developing a diagnostic web app that aims to help patients answer structured questions and be signposted to the right healthcare professional. We are still a long way from that becoming routine, but I do think that is the direction of travel. Used appropriately, AI could help identify patterns that clinicians might otherwise miss, acting as a prompt to reconsider a diagnosis before repeating the same treatment. But it is only ever a tool: the clinician’s knowledge, experience and critical
thinking remain the most important part of the diagnostic process. For me, the most important message is that we should feel more confident when managing these patients. We have better diagnostic frameworks than ever before, growing opportunities to work collaboratively across disciplines and a much greater understanding of these complex conditions. These are some of the themes I will be exploring in greater depth at Dentistry Show London, but the most important thing we can all do is stop, ask what else could be causing the pain, and think differently about the patient sitting in front of us.
Continue the conversation at Dentistry Show London! Professor Tara Renton will explore these themes in greater depth during her presentation, Tooth be or not tooth be? Orofacial pain: diagnosis and management, issues and solutions using AI, at Dentistry Show London. To find out more and register free of charge, visit london.dentistryshow.co.uk
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EDUCATION
The camera is already in the classroom – is your practice ready? Intraoral cameras are already an established part of many modern dental practices. Now that expectation is reaching the classroom, with dental hygiene and therapy students learning to use visual technology before they qualify. Amy Hayes considers what that means for educators, graduates and the practices that will employ them
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cross many dental practices, intraoral cameras now support patient conversations, clinical documentation, monitoring and communication within the wider team. Now that same expectation is reaching dental hygiene and therapy education. A new generation of students is being given structured opportunities to use intraoral cameras before qualification, developing familiarity with the technology as well as an understanding of when and why it can add value to care. This is particularly timely as the contribution of dental hygienists and therapists is being recognised more widely across the dental team. As of 17 August 2026, the GDC recorded 11,407 dental hygienist registrations and 8,824 dental therapist registrations, while the total number of registered dental care professionals had risen by 5% following annual renewal.¹ In England, NHS England’s 2026 dental care pathways guidance also supports greater use of skill mix and care delivered by the full dental team.² Preparing clinicians for contemporary practice therefore means combining clinical knowledge, professional judgement and communication skills with confidence in the digital tools they may be expected to use once they enter the workplace. Bringing imaging into training Illuminate is a fully funded national educational initiative from Acteon UK that provides participating dental hygiene and therapy programmes with an Acteon C50 intraoral camera, educational support and a structured case study framework. Students gain hands-on experience before qualification and submit anonymised, evidencebased clinical case studies for review by a national panel of clinicians, educators and digital dentistry experts. At the Greater Manchester Hygiene and Therapy Programme, Illuminate has been incorporated into the curriculum. Bobby MillsPew, Programme Lecturer and Clinical Supervisor, said: ‘Illuminate stood out to us as something that fits naturally within our curriculum rather than sitting alongside it. We have integrated the programme into our Year 2 formative assessment so that every student in the cohort has the opportunity to develop their digital imaging skills and submit a case study as part of their learning journey.’ Making care more visible For dental hygienists and therapists, intraoral imaging can support patient education, provide a visual record when monitoring soft tissues or other changes over time, contribute to clinical documentation and offer useful context when communicating with colleagues or making a referral. It can also give patients a clearer reference point for conversations about their oral health. When they can see the area being discussed, it can make findings and changes easier to explain and understand. That is particularly relevant in dental hygiene and therapy, where communication, prevention and behaviour change are at the heart of patient care. The GDC’s revised Scope of Practice guidance, effective since November 2025, reinforces the importance of professional judgement, with clinicians expected to work within the boundaries
of their professional title and only provide care for which they are trained, competent and appropriately indemnified or insured.³ For students, competence therefore means more than knowing how to operate a camera. It includes understanding when and why an image may be useful, how information should be recorded and communicated, and when another member of the dental team needs to be involved. Confidence before qualification Bobby said: ‘For a programme like ours, where we are building confidence and clinical capability from the ground up, access to technology that enhances both patient communication and reflective practice is genuinely essential. We would encourage other programmes to explore what Illuminate can offer their students.’ The British Society of Dental Hygiene & Therapy (BSDHT) also sees value in building this experience into training. Rhiannon Jones, President of the BSDHT, said: ‘As the profession continues to develop, giving students structured opportunities to build confidence with technologies that support patient communication is valuable. Dental hygienists and dental therapists have an important role in helping patients understand and take an active part in their oral health, and visual tools can support those conversations when used appropriately. ‘The BSDHT welcomes initiatives that help education providers prepare students for contemporary practice, strengthening confidence, professional judgement and the ability to contribute effectively within the dental team from the start of their careers.’ For educators, the aim is to link the technology to clinical reasoning, communication and reflection, rather than simply teaching students how to use the equipment. What this means for practice Newly qualified hygienists and therapists may increasingly arrive in practice with experience of visual communication and digital documentation already embedded in their training, and expect to continue developing those skills. That creates an opportunity for employers to make onboarding more purposeful. Practices can ask new team members which technologies they have used, how they have used them with patients and where they would benefit from further support. It is also worth considering whether practice workflows make those skills easy to use well.
Can images be captured, stored and retrieved appropriately? Are protocols clear? Does the wider team understand how images can support communication between clinicians? A supportive environment can help practices build on skills graduates already have rather than starting again from the beginning. It can also create greater continuity between education and employment. From classroom to clinic Illuminate brings an educational dimension to a technology many clinicians already encounter in practice, giving students a structured opportunity to combine technical familiarity with clinical reasoning and patient communication before qualification. As Bobby explains: ‘We want every one of our students to leave with skills that make a real difference in practice – and being able to communicate clearly with patients using intraoral imaging is one of them.’ For the practices those students will eventually join, the question is no longer simply whether intraoral cameras have a place in modern dentistry. For many teams, they already do. The next question is whether practices are ready to make the most of graduates who have learned to use them before they even arrive. To find out more about Acteon Illuminate, visit acteon.foleon.com/uk/illuminate. n
References available upon request
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
AMY HAYES
Amy is Global Clinical Education Manager at Acteon Group and a qualified dental hygienist and therapist, combining clinical experience with a focus on professional education and supporting dental teams in delivering high-quality patient care.
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THE DENTAL AWARDS 2026
The Dental Awards Winners’ Presentation On Friday 3rd July, the winners of the 2026 Dental Awards gathered in London to receive their trophies and celebrate their victories along with members of the judging panel and sponsors
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ollowing the virtual presentation that streamed in May on The Probe website and Youtube channel, the winners of the 2026 Dental Awards were invited to a celebratory awards lunch to be presented with their trophies in person. In the shadow of St. Paul’s Cathedral, The Happenstance set the scene perfectly. The weather was kind, the sun shining down as the
best in British dentistry celebrated in the heart of the nation’s capital. After guests were greeted with a champagne reception, James Cooke, Editor of The Probe, presented the winners with their trophies. As the plates were cleared and the dust settled, guests were treated to a performance from a renowned comedian, David Whitney.
Stay tuned in the coming weeks for details on how to enter the 2027 Dental Awards, and you too could find yourself celebrating next year! The Dental Awards is sponsored by B.A. International, Colosseum Dental, Dental Elite, Tempdent, and Waterpik, and is presented in association with the Oral Health Foundation, ADAM, BACDT, BADN, BADT, BSDHT, and CDTA.
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THE DENTAL AWARDS 2026
Dental Awards 2026 Winners National Smile Month Award Community Dental Services CIC [1] Best Outreach or Charity Initiative Dr Angus Pringle [2] Website and Digital Campaign of the Year Bespoke Dental [3] Front of House Ellen Nokes, NUYU Dental & Aesthetics [4] Dental Therapist of the Year Imogen Johnson, NUYU Dental & Aesthetics [5] Dental Hygienist of the Year Rhianna Clarke, The Aspre Clinic [6] Technical Excellence Award (DTs & CDTs) Emma Allsopp, Nexus Dental Laboratory [7] Dental Nurse of the Year Adrien Chabaud, Be Dental [8] Practice Manager of the Year Laura Wilson, Contemporary Dental [9] Young Dentist of the Year Awaz Sharief, mydentist Padgate [10] Dentist of the Year Dr Chloe Harrington-Taylor, Hereford Dental Implant Clinic Dental Team of the Year Links Dental Practice Practice of the Year Hereford Dental Implant Clinic 41
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PRODUCTS Easier than ever to say “Yes!” Optimised for increased patient acceptance, Clinpro™ Clear Fluoride Treatment from Solventum features an improved taste, smell and mouthfeel with enhanced fluoride delivery. Available in Watermelon, Mint and Flavourless, the Clinpro™ Clear has a rosin-free, water-based formula. The soluble fluoride ions contained within are immediately available to deposit onto the dentition, ensuring a comparable or greater fluoride uptake than traditional options – all while having a decreased fluoride concentration of just 2.1%. The solution can glide smoothly onto teeth, requiring a minimum contact time of only 15 minutes. This means appointments can fit seamlessly into your patient’s day. 96% of patients also report
One simple change, genuine results that they can’t feel or taste Clinpro™ Clear Fluoride Treatment just one hour after treatment, meaning the benefits can be gained with minimal disruption. Learn more when you get in touch with the Solventum team today. To learn more about Solventum, please visit https:// www.solventum.com/en-gb/home/oral-care/ For more updates on trends, information and events follow us on Instagram at @solventumdentalUK and @solventumorthodonticsemea. solventum.com/en-gb/home/oral-care/
Professional, reliable, and supportive recruitment service In a recent 5-star Google Review, Maelor Dental Care discuss their experience with Dental Elite when Mark Rushton supported them in recruiting an associate dentist in North Wales: “I was assisted by Mark Rushton, I would like to thank him for his excellent service, his continued support and clear communication throughout the entire recruitment process. He made everything straightforward and kept me informed every step of the way. “I would highly recommend this company, and Mark in particular, to anyone looking to recruit a dentist. A professional, reliable, and supportive service from start to finish. Thank you!” For more information on Dental Elite visit the
website, email info@dentalelite.co.uk or call 01788 545 900. dentalelite.co.uk
Simple, safe and effective sharps storage Confidence in your waste workflows relies on safety at every step. The Eco Sharps Bin from Initial Medical reduce the risk of harm whilst keeping your practice compliant at every step. Made from puncture-resistant plastic, these used sharps containers minimise the risk of needlestick injuries. A sealed lid with a disposal door ensures items cannot be accessed after disposal, in line with current guidance. You can choose from a range of sizes, 0.5 to 32 litres, and we can provide colour-coded signage to suit your needs. If you are unsure which size will suit your workflow, the Initial Medical team will be sure to help. Each Eco Sharps Bin is made from at least
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Never miss a patient
40% recycled plastic, further supporting efforts to protect the environment. Contact the Initial Medical team to learn more, or visit our website. To find out more, get in touch at 0808 304 7411 or visit the website today www.initialmedical.co.uk initialmedical.co.uk
Orajel®: a safe pain relief recommendation for older patients Dental pain in older adults is frequently underreported, and when it is identified, managing it safely adds a layer of complexity that younger patients rarely present. Orajel® Dental Gel and Orajel® Extra Strength offer an alternative that makes sense. Containing 10% and 20% benzocaine respectively, both formulations deliver targeted, localised pain relief at the site of discomfort in just two minutes. They act directly on the affected area with minimal systemic absorption, and limited drug interaction risks, when used as directed. Fast-acting, localised, and trusted. Recommend
For exceptional at-home oral hygiene that will help your patients achieve genuine results, recommend the Cordless Advanced water flosser from Waterpik™. By simply implementing this easy step into their daily routine, your patients will be able to remove up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas in just three seconds. This is especially important because the water flosser facilitates access below the gingival margin and between the teeth – where toothbrushing and traditional flossing can’t reach. The Cordless Advanced water flosser features a 360º rotating tip to make handling even easier, especially for those with limited dexterity. There are also four compatible flossing tips available to meet different patient needs, whether they have restorations, fixed orthodontic appliances, implants or periodontal concerns. Three water pressure settings ensure that individuals can customise their experience for maximum comfort as well. It was even named as a Telegraph Best Buy for 2026, showing just how popular the solution is becoming nationwide. Help patients make one simple yet powerful change to their oral hygiene routine – recommend the Cordless Advanced water flosser from Waterpik™.
Orajel® to your older patients today. For essential information, and to see the full range of Orajel®products, please visit www.orajelhcp.co.uk
oralhcp.co.uk
Are potential customers slipping through the cracks of your dental practice? Reduce revenue loss with the help of RoboReception LeadTracker, a predictable growth system that unifies your patient funnel. It can be exhausting to juggle spreadsheets, separate inboxes and disconnected apps when assessing your turnover. Instead, RoboReception LeadTracker keeps things simple, providing a customisable system that is easy to use and delivers results the very next day. As a dashboard, it is immediately accessible and understandable, using a traffic light code to quickly identify patients who may be due an appointment. From there, it is able to notify the dental team and send out automated emails and texts to improve patient engagement and retention, and subsequently increase revenue. RoboReception LeadTracker is fully GDPR compliant and has no set-up fees. Designed by dentists for dentists, support your patients and boost your revenue today, all with the help of RoboReception. To find out visit www.roboreception.co.uk or call us on 07511 085684 Book a demo at https://calendly.com/ roboreception/roboreception-demo-1 roboreception.co.uk
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PRODUCTS Clean smarter between the teeth with FLEXI from Tandex Cleaning between the teeth is one of the most important parts of any oral care routine, and the right tool makes all the difference. The FLEXI interdental brush from TANDEX is designed to reach the spaces a toothbrush simply cannot, disrupting plaque where decay and gum disease so often begin. What sets FLEXI apart is its reusable design. A durable wire core and shape-retaining bristles mean each brush keeps performing across multiple uses, making it both a more sustainable and a more economical choice for patients who want to do right by their oral health and the planet. Clear colour-coded sizing removes guesswork,
helping patients match the brush precisely to their interdental spaces for comfortable, effective cleaning every time. Recommend FLEXI to your patients today and see the difference the right brush can make! Tandex is giving dental professionals the opportunity to win a free FLEXI Educator Kit by answering just a few questions! Enter the quiz by following this link https://form1.tandex.de/ For more information visit https://tandex.dk/ Our products are also available from DHB Oral Healthcare https://dhb.co.uk/
Optimised for comfort and compliance, Tahir One delivers excellent performance, giving patients an invaluable solution with which they can be proactive in keeping their smile clean, healthy and therefore happy. The Tahir One Electric Flosser is available for patients at tahiroralcare.com and through Harrods. For practice enquiries and professional ordering, visit tahiroralcare.com.
The NEXUS TMJ System from Total TMJ is a specialised arthroscope designed for diagnostic and treatment procedures across all levels of TMJ arthroscopic surgery. Built around a 1.9mm scope and 1.8mm advanced instruments, NEXUS supports procedures from initial puncture and disc repositioning to lysis and lavage. The NEXUS also includes fully customisable trays and instruments to suit your own respective surgical requirements. Available to purchase or hire, hired sets arrive in bespoke pelican cases via a dedicated courier. TotalTMJ also offers long-term loan and fixed-cost hire options too. For NEXUS purchase, hire or loan options, contact the Total TMJ team today. For more information visit totaltmj.co.uk, call 01202 313702 or email info@totaltmj.co.uk.
tahiroral.com
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3-in-1 and one-for-all A total oral care system that helps achieve a 100 per cent clean – Tahir One is a powerful solution for daily oral care. A comprehensive 3-in-1 experience awaits patients who integrate Tahir One into their hygiene routine. Functioning as an electric toothbrush, electric flosser and electric tongue cleaner, the cutting-edge system improves hygiene outcomes and reduces the risk of oral disease. Using a single button, patients can switch between four professional modes: Floss, Tongue, Sensitive and Deep Clean, with the latter able to guide the user tooth by tooth, ensuring every tooth gets the deserved amount of attention.
Defeat dry mouth
Advocating for you and your patients You are constantly advocating for your patients as you strive to help them improve and maintain an excellent standard of oral hygiene. You can now make the journey even more affordable when you recommend Waterpik™ water flossing solutions. Your practice is invited to join the Waterpik Advocacy Programme. This provides your practice with a referral code that all your patients can use to unlock a discount as they order their own Waterpik™ water flosser. When you sign up, your practice will also receive a free practice kit that contains a display unit for trials and demonstrations, patent education literature, customised patient
discount cards, and a CPD module with additional educational materials. To find out more about the benefits available when you join the Waterpik™ Advocacy programme, visit the website today.
waterpik.co.uk
Looking for balance? Are you a dental professional looking for a change of pace and clinical freedom? Clyde Munro is a haven for dentists, dental hygienists and therapists, and dental nurses who are looking for a flexible role and a healthy work-life balance. As Scotland’s largest dental group, Clyde Munro ensures professional satisfaction through the many benefits of being an associate. From career progression and practice management to the use of cutting-edge technologies and the freedom to decide how best to treat your patients, dental professionals at Clyde Munro can achieve the balance that best suits them. With access to an internal referral network, marketing support to promote the treatments you
NEXUS TMJ System: precision arthroscopy
want to deliver, and a Refer a Friend Scheme that can earn you up to £3,000, the perks at Clyde Munro keep on coming. It’s never too early or too late to make a change. Join Clyde Munro and meet your ambitions head-on, settling in a community of driven dental professionals who are comfortable, confident and always growing. To find out more about Clyde Munro, please visit https://careers.clydemunrodental.com/ careers.clydemunrodental.com
Tackle dry mouth by recommending Perio Plus Regenerate from Curaprox, an effective mouthwash with 0.09% chlorhexidine. Dry mouth can stem from medication side effects, mouth breathing and dehydration. To prevent the resulting bad breath and increased risk of oral disease, Perio Plus Regenerate helps eliminate harmful bacteria and supports the regeneration of the gingivae and oral mucosa. Alongside its chlorhexidine concentration, the mouthwash features hyaluronic acid to hydrate the oral cavity whilst the unique Citrox®formula, derived from bitter oranges and combined with amino acids, delivers a flavoursome taste and adheres well to the teeth. For patients reporting dry mouth, recommend Perio Plus Regenerate for up to one month, used twice daily. The enhanced oral hygiene outcome will reduce the risk of periodontitis and caries for a healthier smile going forwards. Find out more about the first-class solutions from Curaprox today. To arrange a Practice Educational Meeting with your Curaden Development Manager please email us on sales@curaden.co.uk For information, visit. www.curaprox.co.uk and www.curaden.co.uk curaprox.co.uk
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