The Probe February 2025

NHS dentistry: Over ¼ million send a message to Starmer

The British Dental Association called on the Government to move at pace to honour pledges to save NHS dentistry, as a petition cosigned by over 250,000 supporters was delivered to Downing Street in early January.

The professional body has warned that the service is now in a more fragile state than it was at the time of the July election. The Budget has added significant new costs to struggling practices while providing no corresponding support, and pay uplifts for the 2024/25 financial year are now running eight months late – a record breaking delay.

Responding to questions on the delivery, Wes Streeting acknowledged to parliament that: “NHS dentistry is at death’s door.”

The BDA was the first organisation to meet the new Health Secretary face to face in July. While it has welcomed the tone set by the new Government, sixth months on it stresses that urgency and ambition are required to save the service.

Formal negotiations to reform the discredited NHS dental contract fuelling

the access and workforce crises in the service have yet to begin. Lord Darzi’s recent independent review of the NHS echoed the position of the Health Select Committee in two dedicated inquiries, the Nuffield Trust and the dental profession itself, observing: “If dentistry is to continue as a core NHS service, urgent action is needed to develop a contract that balances activity and prevention, is attractive to dentists and rewards those dentists who practice in less served areas.”

There has yet to be rollout on pledges to provide 700,000 extra urgent dental appointments, and supervised brushing programmes in early years settings.

The BDA has said NHS dentistry has effectively ceased to exist for new patients, with ONS data in December showing 94% of new patients who attempted to secure NHS care were unsuccessful. BDA analysis of Government data places unmet need for NHS dentistry at over 13 million, or 1 in 4 of England’s adult population.

Despite stated goals to shift the strategic focus of the NHS from sickness to prevention, from hospital to community, the Government’s ‘Plan for Change’ makes no reference to dentistry. Tooth decay remains the number one reason for hospital admissions among young children.

BDA Chair Eddie Crouch said: “The public and this profession have a simple message for the PM. The clock is ticking on NHS dentistry and this Government must make good on its promises. If reform is kicked into the long grass, there won’t be a service left to save.” ■

Broadstone analysis finds 12% of population does not have a dentist

Analysis of the latest ONS ‘Experiences of NHS healthcare services in England’ survey (https://tinyurl.com/onsden) reveals a worrying gap in dental care in certain regions and among specific demographic groups.

The research from Broadstone, an independent consultancy, shows that 5.9% of the English working population – those aged 16-64 – who have an NHS dentist or go to a dental hospital, had their last dental appointment more than two years ago. When extrapolated against the latest ONS population estimates (https://tinyurl. com/onspopest) that’s equivalent to approximately 1.2 million people, despite the wider health risks associated with poor oral health and the importance of regular check-ups among this working cohort.

The survey also revealed that 12.0% of all English residents – or 5.7 million

people – claim that they do not have a dentist, among which approximately 4.9 million people are of working age –16-64 years old.

Interestingly, 81.2% of people without a dentist but who tried to make an NHS appointment in the last 28 days, were unsuccessful in doing so. In response to this, when asked what their follow up action was, the majority (75.6%) said ‘nothing’.

The top three regions with the lowest proportion of people with a dentist included the South West (16.9%), North East & Yorkshire (13.7%) and East of England (11.6%).

The top five areas in England with the lowest coverage included; Cornwall and Isles of Scilly (23.3%), Bristol, North Somerset and Gloucestershire (20.7%), Devon (19.7%), Somerset (17.7%) and Northamptonshire (17.6%)

Urban city towns had the highest proportion of people without a dentist at 13.1%. Rural towns (11.7%), urban major cities (11.2%) and rural villages (10.5%) had slightly less people without a dentist.

Emily Jones, Client Consulting Director at Broadstone, said: “These findings shine a light on a growing and concerning issue around access to dentistry in England. Oral health is a critical foundation of overall wellbeing, and untreated dental issues can lead to more severe health risks, from infections and sleep disruption to cardiovascular problems.

“It’s worrying to see that millions of people are going more than two years before seeing their dentist, potentially missing out on important oral cancer or gum disease checks. The data also demonstrates the significant numbers of people who don’t have a dentist and are struggling to access an appointment when they try.”

Petition author Tom Thayer, Anthony Page (whose life was saved by a routine NHS dental check-up which detected his mouth cancer) and BDA Chair Eddie Crouch along with by MPs, and campaigners from the Women’s Institute

A welcome from the editor

Well, that’s January done. If we can just get to the part of the year when it’s light as the alarm goes off in the morning, 2025 will be rocking and rolling. I’ve never been one to mind January – arbitrary month that it is – but waking up to darkness is something I’ve always struggled with.

Anecdote aside, Lisa Bainham is happy to have ‘survived’ the first month of the year over on page 35. Now, she’s looking to get

refocused on the task at hand for the year ahead. What are your plans for 2025 now that we’re in the swing of it? For one bunch of Dental Mavericks, several trips to Morocco are planned to treat children in need of oral health assistance. Find out more in Samanta Espinosa’s piece on page 47. In this issue, we look forward, with pieces such as Lianne Scott-Munden’s article on why February is a month for dentistry on page 46, and whether VR is the future of dental training as pondered by Karen Coates on page 8. And, finally, while looking at the year as a whole, February is the final month in which to enter the Dental Awards. You have until 24th February to complete your submissions over at the-probe.co.uk/awards. Best of luck to everyone who has entered.

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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. Readers who

Carl Wise Managing Director MC Repairs

Alec Hilton CEO BioMin Technologies

Dr Duncan Park Principal Green Square Dental

Dr Martin Sulo Owner Botesdale Dental Clinic

Fran Sorodoc Head of Prof. Services Agilio

Samanta Espinosa Project Coordinator Dental Mavericks

Lisa Bainham, President ADAM

Lianne Scott-Munden

Manager at Denplan

Killing me softly with negligence

This is a tale of the wanton destruction of a thing that I loved

It was 1973 and I was in the photographic darkroom at my first weekly newspaper. Roberta Flack was being played on Radio 1 as I printed up pictures from some WI jumble sale I’d covered at the weekend. Roberta was singing her new hit, Killing Me Softly , a song which was flying high in the charts at the time.

I really loved the song – or at least, I did. For a few seconds later, the charm of the song was cold-bloodedly murdered when a colleague waltzed into the darkroom and joined in with Roberta, singing in his best falsetto, “Squeezing my spots with a mole wrench…”

Last Sunday – over half a century later - Michael Ball played Roberta’s hit on his Radio 2 Love Songs programme. No reprieve. Those words were still there – right in my face and echoing around my head - those pustules were still oozing volcanically after a brutish and unprovoked mole wrench attack. Which brings me on neatly, to the near-death of NHS dentistry.

As you well know, the coup de grâce to NHS dentistry was delivered in 2006 by the Blair Labour Government. The only factor that prevented health service dentistry from taking its terminal breath at the time was the resilience of a good proportion of stoic dental practitioners, who clung on to the crippled NHS dentistry ship in the hope that it wouldn’t be sucked down to the bottom of the ocean, whilst they watched more pragmatic dentists, who had sensed the ship was doomed from the first crunch, sail away on private lifeboats to waters less turbulent. As you may also know, when the Units of Dental Activity (UDA) system was introduced in April 2006, the annual payments to NHS dentists under the new contract were largely based on their previous earnings from the NHS in the preceding two years. A dentist’s annual NHS income under the new contract was calculated using a historical average of their gross NHS income from 20042006. That figure was then used to establish a fixed annual budget for each practice, which would then be tied to the inexplicable target number of UDAs the dentists were expected to deliver. The beauty of this system (to the Government at least), was that purely NHS-based practices couldn’t increase their income from the health service by working harder or faster. So, if you needed extra income to finance practice improvements – hard luck mate!

The situation experienced by dentists who somehow manage to survive in the health system is now coming to a head, with representatives from the British Dental Association forced out of desperation to go to Downing Street in January to deliver a petition highlighting the critical state of NHS dental services, signed by over a quarter of a million people. Initiated by Dr Tom Thayer, the petition underscored the frustration of dental professionals and patients alike with Government’s failure to provide reform and resources to the dental sector.

BDA Chair Dr Eddie Crouch even had to turn out on his 65th birthday! Now THAT is dedication to NHS dentistry.

I know I’m not unique in holding this view, and I KNOW I’ve said it before, but for decades I believe successive governments have been trying to kick dentistry out of the health service via the back door – relentlessly making it more and more difficult for practitioners to survive financially until they are faced with no other alternative to but to go private. And the consequence of this, of course, is that practitioners are then labelled ‘greedy dentists’ despite the fact they faced near bankruptcy before taking that reluctant decision. As BDA Chair Eddie Crouch posted on X, aimed at Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, Wes Streeting: “If you wanted to save NHS Dentistry, the play book would not include dropping pledges of new funding for 700K urgent appointments, adding a National Insurance bill with no guarantee of reimbursement, and now a below DDRB recommendation for pay.”

With nothing better to do in retirement, I do spend a lot of time looking on with despair as I see more and more dentists forced into reluctantly preparing to give up their NHS contracts because even this new Labour Government – you know, Labour, the party that founded the NHS in the first place - doesn’t appear to be listening to the fact that a crucial part of the NHS health care system is about to crumble like cheap pink prophy paste.

And the reason I feel the despondency of practitioners as they approach their final decision to leave the Nash is that I went through that internal battle myself after a couple of years of struggling

in the health service after the UDA contract was introduced.

I bought my rural practice in 1994 from a sole practitioner, who was retiring. At that time, he had a part-time associate who came in a couple of days a week. By about 1996, the practice had taken on a considerable number of new patients, some of whom had followed me from my old practice in a nearby city with the blessing of my former bosses. We were bobbing along quite nicely, financially, even though I was never the fastest or most efficient operator, and we were working under the old fee-per-item system. I also raised the salaries of my staff so that they were at least on a living wage. At no point during those two years did I go into overdraft.

Eventually, I realised I needed another clinician to help with the growing number of patients, and so I took on another parttimer. At this point, I also realised I needed to kit out our small spare dumping room into a surgery. This was done at the cost of about £30,000, and I took a loan out to cover it. Under the old pay system, I managed the repayments and never ever had to resort to a bank overdraft… that is, until the new contract came in.

We had kept the practice on an even financial keel from 1994 until April 1st 2006 - my earnings remaining pretty stable all through that time. But then the blood-sucking Count Clawback flew into view and, before I knew it, I was £15K in overdraft and the ichor discharge turned into Niagara until the business was £65,000 in debt by the time I sold up in 2013 – despite having VERY reluctantly taken on a few Denplan patients out of desperation. It was too little, too late.

On selling up, all I did was clear my business debts. I made not an extra penny from the sale. Having learned my lesson – and still feeling that I had a bit of life left in me (I was in my late fifties) – I went off to a corporate in a town 20 miles or so away to enjoy the carefree life of an associate.

Unfortunately, my motto in life has always been “Once bitten, twice bitten” and – you guessed it – I worked on an NHS contract until my retirement in 2018, slowly but surely finding my own personal overdraft stacking up. During that time, I enjoyed just the one occasion when I hit my UDA target. I pretty much floated on air until the next clawback.

If I had my time all over again and I wasn’t dedicated to the idea of NHS dental care for everyone, I would have jumped ship to the private lifeboats in 2006. I don’t blame any practitioner now, for doing the same before a pointless and vain attempt at clinging on to the remains of NHS dentistry ruins their health and their finances.

I think Hamlet said it best when he soliloquised, “To be, or not to be: that is the question. Whether ‘tis nobler in the mind to suffer the slings and arrows of outrageous fortune, or just kick the Nash into touch and go private.”

The Bard of Avon knew best. n

About the author ollie Jupes is the pseudonym of a former nHs dentist. He monitors dentistry on twitter X as @DentistGoneBadd

VR training in dentistry

Visionary tool or technological gimmick?

Dentistry is at a crossroads. As the profession grapples with critical challenges – NHS dentist shortages, treatment backlogs, and uneven access to training – it’s time to rethink how we prepare the next generation of dental professionals. Could virtual reality (VR) training be the answer?

Emerging technologies like VR are reshaping industries, and dentistry is no exception. But for this shift to truly benefit both professionals and patients, the profession needs to critically examine its readiness to embrace such a bold step forward.

shortages in dentistry training

There is a shortage of NHS dentists in many areas of the UK. The country is still in the depths of a dental crisis with many patients waiting months or even years to receive dental treatment under the NHS provision. Simultaneously, dental schools face the dual pressures of resource constraints and the growing demand for highly trained professionals.

In this challenging landscape, VR offers a tantalising possibility: a scalable, immersive tool for training future dentists. Advocates argue that VR can help address both the shortage of educators and the constraints of physical resources. By offering simulated clinical environments, VR can provide students with the hands-on experience needed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world application.

One study conducted last year stated that “VR-based training offers standardised learning opportunities, fostering high engagement and knowledge transfer to clinical practice. It addresses educator shortages and enables flexible, individualised learning, with promising applications for future dental education.” (Felszeghy S et al).

Building confidence

The more training someone has in clinical situations, the more confident they will be when they enter the working world with their new skills. Confidence can also go a long way in improving rapport with patients and overall practice camaraderie with the rest of the dental team.

There are many studies on the subject but one, Lui, L.F., Radhakrishnan et al 2025, states just how good VR can be in developing fine motor skills. Hand-eye coordination is crucial in all aspects of detailed dental treatments, which can be very stressful for first-time dentists. VR’s potential to replicate high-stress environments without risk to patients is particularly appealing. By practising in these controlled yet realistic scenarios, it could be highly possible for students to build the resilience and composure needed for their professional roles. This preparation doesn’t merely benefit students; it also enhances team dynamics and patient rapport, creating a ripple effect across the practice.

Challenges of vR

Despite its potential, VR is not without challenges. One of the most significant hurdles is cost. The price of a single VR headset ranges from £300 to over £1,000. Add to this the expense of high-performance

computers capable of running VR software (an additional £1,000 or more per unit) and the financial implications become clear. Equipping a classroom of 20 students could run into tens of thousands of pounds – a significant investment for institutions already grappling with funding cuts.

It is easy to argue that the rapid pace of technological advancement complicates matters further. Today’s state-of-the-art VR tools could quickly become outdated, leaving institutions facing the expensive task of upgrading equipment to maintain relevance. Future-proofing investments while keeping training programmes cuttingedge is no small feat.

Beyond these logistical challenges, the ethical considerations are equally significant. Reliance on technology might risk dehumanising the training process, potentially diminishing students’ development of empathy and interpersonal skills – qualities essential for patient-centred care. While VR excels at simulating technical procedures, it cannot replicate the nuances of human interaction that form the backbone of excellent dental practice.

It could also deepen inequalities within the profession. Smaller institutions with tighter budgets may find it difficult to adopt VR technology, inadvertently creating a twotiered system where some students benefit from advanced training tools while others are left behind. Ensuring equitable access to VR training will require deliberate strategies and collaboration across the sector.

Final thoughts

Should dentistry be the next frontier for VR training? The answer is a cautious yes. While VR holds immense promise, its integration must be measured and strategic. Rather than viewing VR as a panacea, we should explore hybrid models that combine traditional methods with VR applications.

Pilot programmes can help identify best practices, while ongoing research should focus on long-term outcomes, inclusivity, and cost-effectiveness. Collaboration between educational institutions, industry leaders, and policymakers will be essential to ensure VR’s potential is realised without compromising accessibility or quality.

Dentistry has always been a profession that balances innovation with practicality. As VR technology continues to evolve, it offers an exciting opportunity to enhance education, address workforce shortages, and improve patient care. But this journey will require bold leadership, significant investment, and a commitment to ensuring that no student or patient is left behind. n

About the author

Karen Coates,

Using wider trends to prioritise oral health

As dentists and clinicians, our primary mission is to ensure the oral health of our patients. Yet, we also understand the challenges of engaging patients and motivating them to take proactive steps for their dental well-being.

While we excel at providing care within our practices, the main challenge is in inspiring patients to walk through our doors in the first place. To bridge this gap, it’s crucial to use what’s happening in the wider world and align our marketing with moments that resonate with our patients. One perfect example is Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is synonymous with love, connection, and presenting the best version of ourselves. It’s a time when people invest in themselves – be it through a new outfit, a refreshed look, or simply feeling confident for a special date night.

This makes February an opportune time for dental practices to promote services that align with these values, such as teeth whitening.

why valentine’s Day works

considered whitening or other cosmetic treatments. But a targeted campaign can encourage them to explore these options. Additionally, promotions tied to cultural moments like Valentine’s Day can help maintain patient loyalty. Offering special deals or packages to your regular patients reinforces the idea that you value them.

Crafting an effective campaign

To make the most of a Valentine’s Day promotion, it’s important to craft a campaign that resonates with your audience and aligns with your brand. Here are a few key steps:

1. Create a compelling message: your campaign should clearly communicate the value of the offer and its relevance to Valentine’s Day

2. Leverage social media: platforms like Instagram and Facebook are ideal for promoting cosmetic treatments

3. Personalise your approach: segment your patient database and send targeted emails or texts to different groups

At its core, Valentine’s Day is about confidence and self-presentation. Whether it’s a first date, a long-term relationship, or simply a personal treat, people are naturally inclined to make an extra effort to look and feel their best.

4. Collaborate locally: partnering with local businesses, such as florists or spas, can enhance your promotion

This mindset creates a perfect entry point for dental practices to position oral health as a key part of that preparation. Whitening treatments, in particular, are a natural fit for Valentine’s Day promotions. They offer immediate results and are a non-invasive way to boost confidence.

For patients who may have been delaying their visit to the dentist, a special offer tied to Valentine’s Day can be the nudge they need to finally book an appointment.

Attracting new patients

Discounted whitening offers are not only timely but also an effective way to bring new patients into your practice. For individuals who might not have a regular dentist or who haven’t been prioritising their oral health, a promotional offer provides a starting point. Once they’re in your chair, you have the opportunity to educate them about the importance of comprehensive oral care and build a long-term relationship.

Consider this: a patient who comes in for whitening might not have visited a dentist in years. During their consultation, you have the chance to identify potential issues, provide valuable advice, and schedule follow-up treatments. By starting with a cosmetic treatment, you’re opening the door to a broader conversation about their oral health needs.

engaging existing patients

Valentine’s Day promotions aren’t just about attracting new patients; they’re also a great way to re-engage your existing patient base. Many of your current patients may not have

5. Incentivise referrals: encourage your current patients to refer friends or family members by offering an additional discount or gift card for each new patient they bring in during the promotion.

Measuring success

As with any marketing initiative, it’s important to measure the success of your Valentine’s Day campaign. Track metrics such as the number of appointments booked, new patients acquired, and revenue generated from the promotion.

Additionally, gather feedback from patients to understand what aspects of the campaign resonated with them and how you can improve future efforts.

Looking ahead

Valentine’s Day is just one example of how we can use cultural moments to engage patients and prioritise oral health. Throughout the year, there are countless opportunities to align your treatments with what’s happening in the wider world. From summer wedding season to back-to-school campaigns, these moments allow you to connect with patients in meaningful and timely ways.

As clinicians, it’s our responsibility to innovate not only in the care we provide but also in how we communicate its value. By tapping into cultural moments like Valentine’s Day, we can inspire patients to take charge of their oral health and build stronger, healthier communities.

So, this February, let’s embrace the spirit of the season and show our patients that a confident smile is the best gift they can give themselves – and their loved ones.

After all, every great love story deserves a dazzling smile to match. n

About the author polly Bhambra, practice principal at treetops Dental surgery.

Treating children raises consent dilemma

It’s common for dental professionals to be unsure about whether they can treat a child when only one parent has given authority for the treatment. Take the following fictional dilemma, based on DDU calls.

A child attended a paediatric dental practice with their father and was advised to have dental treatment. The father authorised the treatment and it was carried out – but, later on, the mother called the practice and was angry that she had not been consulted about her child’s treatment.

The practice manager called the DDU to clarify whether they could provide treatment with the consent of only one parent.

DDU advice

Parents might not always be in direct communication and can have different views on the treatment options for their children. This can be difficult for dental professionals to manage, and our adviser was able to clarify some key points.

First, it is always important to establish who has parental responsibility and to document this in the patient’s record. When both parents have parental responsibility and the child does not have the capacity to consent, decisions about treatment can be made jointly or individually by the parents. The practice does not need consent from both parents.

relationships have broken down to such an extent that communication becomes impossible and where parents disagree over care.

In severe cases, where disagreement could result in neglect, practices should consider their safeguarding

The adviser explained that the practice should always work in the best interests of the child. Where parental opinions differ, it may be appropriate to discuss the treatment with both parents – but if one parent does not agree, then the principle of best interests applies. In this case, a second clinical opinion may be useful to support the decision.

The adviser also discussed the concept of Gillick competence and explained that an older child can have the capacity to consent. A capacity assessment should be made and, in situations where a child is Gillick competent, it would be wise to ensure they consent to any of their information being shared with either parent.

The outcome

The practice manager was reassured that they had acted in the best interests of the patient and with parental consent. They were able to update the practice procedure for communicating with separating parents.

Summary

Separation and divorce are often stressful and difficult times for parents and children. It is important that dental professionals do not get drawn into family disputes and continue to act in the best interests of patients.

In many cases, separating parents will want to be informed about the dental care of their children and dental practices can often accommodate this request. Difficulties arise where

procedures. DDU members can contact us for further advice.

The DDU’s website has further information on getting consent when treating young patients. See it at: theddu.com/guidance-and-advice/guides/ dental-consent-and-young-patients 

About

Can you really spot the risk?

It may take some believing that a successful procedure to extract a wisdom tooth for a healthy thirtysomething patient would result in two years of litigation and a six-figure bill in damages and legal expenses, on top of the reputational and personal impact on the dentist. This sounds like something that could only happen in the U.S. but that is not the case. It happened on this side of the pond, and similar cases are not unknown. Sometimes it boils down to bad luck and it is true that not all legal claims can be prevented. But ensuring you are alive to the warning signs that some patients may pose more of a risk than others in terms of their potential to sue is a worthwhile way of reducing the risk of these situations arising.

pleasing everyone?

When claims for compensation arising from dental treatment are analysed, it is possible to tease out particular patterns that emerge and repeat time and again. There are patients who may experience an unexpected, serious issue following treatment and will be completely satisfied with receiving a refund or an offer to contribute to remedial treatment costs. In some cases the patient will even express their genuine gratitude for this. In other cases, a patient who may have experienced a comparatively minor adverse outcome – which they may well have been warned about in advance – will quickly ‘lawyer-up’ and will make the most of whatever justification there may be to pursue a clinical negligence claim.

It is worth considering if there are particular personality traits that lead some individuals to be more litigious than others. If so, it begs the question of whether there is anything a clinician can do when dealing with patients who demonstrate these traits to reduce the risk of these individuals ‘going legal’. There will always be some people that simply cannot be pleased and will be intent on complaining or claiming compensation for the slightest thing. The chronically dissatisfied will always be with us. But, in many cases, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of a litigious outcome with people with in-built suing potential.

who is most likely to sue?

A European study was undertaken, looking into factors that may be associated with an individual being more inclined to embark upon litigation 1 . This research was based upon medical patients receiving hospital-based care, so the findings may not be translate exactly to dental patients but the general points emerging from the findings do provide food for thought for anyone providing clinical care.

The demographic characteristics of sex, educational level and economic status were not predictors of the

likelihood to litigate. The dominant predictors were, in fact, found to be age, religious disposition, level of dependency on the health system, and certain personality traits.

Older patients with a stronger religious background were the least likely to resort to litigation. The researchers considered that this may possibly be on account of taking a more forgiving attitude to an adverse outcome or an error. It may also be that such individuals are influenced by viewing such events as situations that their faith allows them to overcome or accept and move on from.

Those individuals who were more frequent users of the healthcare system were also less likely to report a tendency towards seeking compensation. This may be due to an underlying dependence on their health provider, which in turn may be reflected in being less inclined to sue.

By far, the factor which was the strongest indicator of ‘litigious likelihood’ was associated with high levels of expectation about the information that should be provided.

In other words, patients who started from a position of expecting detailed information being provided as part of their clinician-patient consultations were more likely to consider suing their practitioner than patients who had lower expectations regarding such information.

This finding underlines the critical importance of obtaining valid consent for clinical procedures, which, by definition, must be based upon appropriate information sharing and fully informed joint decision-making. This will of course involve not just informing the patient of the treatment options, and the risks, benefits and costs of those options, but also confirming that the patient is satisfied with and understands the information provided. The study highlighted that failures in this area of clinicianpatient communication are significant determinants of the decision of a patient to sue.

expectations?

This then raises the question over which types of persons have higher expectations of the information they receive during a clinical consultation. In general, those who are prone to higher levels of stress or anxiety are the most likely to focus on the level of information they want to receive from a clinician practitioner and may demonstrate an almost unreasonable degree of interest in this.

Regardless of their underlying personality type, everyone will experience, or has experienced, anxiety at one time or another. However, people with anxiety disorders frequently have intense, excessive and persistent worry and fear around everyday situations, according to the Mayo Clinic 2

These feelings of intense anxiety, fear or terror can interfere with their

routine daily activities and are often completely out of proportion to any actual danger. It is much too sweeping a generalisation to consider that every single person who suffers from an anxiety disorder is a potential litigant. However, it is worth taking extra care to ensure that such individuals have the benefit of receiving appropriate and detailed information in relation to their dental treatment as part of the consent process and confirming that they are as well-informed about this as they wish to be.

When high value dental cases are reviewed it is often noted that the patients involved in these cases have an element of suffering from some degree of anxiety disorder prior to their dental treatment. Associated with this is a higher-than-usual requirement for information during their treatment as well as an ongoing need for further information and consideration during the recovery period.

For such individuals, it is important that their own particular, individual experience, and what they have suffered is understood and validated. As a consequence, they can become very tenacious litigants and it is not unusual for the primary focus to be on the quest for retribution for a real or imagined injustice rather than simply about seeking financial redress.

preventive measures

What experience does tell us in the realm of dentolegal risk management is that practitioners who adopt a more “patient-sensitive” approach are likely to provide better experiences for their patients and themselves, including

higher patient satisfaction and retention, better treatment outcomes, and a decreased risk of litigation. It makes a great deal of sense to remember that teeth are attached to people and that time spent getting to know the rest of the patient, as well as assessing their mouth, is a good investment. Taking that little bit of extra time to get to know what sort of person you are dealing with can go a long way to help you identify if there is anything you need to be taking particular steps to manage before getting in too deep.

It is always good practice to ensure you explain, listen and keep good records when treating any patient. But for some, doing that little bit of extra double-checking and going the extra mile with your information sharing may make all the difference and help prevent a lot of grief for everyone at some point in the future. You may not be able to guarantee that no-one will ever sue you, but it does no harm to keep your ‘receptors’ switched on to try to keep this risk to a minimum. n

References 1. ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/ PMC4201400/ 2. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ anxiety/symptoms-causes/syc20350961

About the author Martin Foster, Dentolegal Consultant at Dental protection.

I felt completely out of sync with normal life.

FREE TOOLS AND SAMPLES TO SUPPORT YOUR PATIENTS

Effective daily plaque control is key to tackling the causes of gum disease and stopping gingivitis in its tracks.

For patients, however, changing their oral health behaviours can be hard.

has developed a range of tools and resources for dental professionals to help power up your patients’ gum health.

STEPS TO BETTER GUM HEALTH TACKLING GUM DISEASE TOGETHER

How can we work together to prevent gum disease?

Over 80% of UK adults show signs of gum disease.1 As dental professionals, you know that effective daily plaque control is key to tackling the causes of gum disease and stopping gingivitis in its tracks. Haleon recently hosted a panel of dental experts to discuss the barriers dental professionals face in encouraging behaviour change for improved gum health. Led by Professor Tim Newton, President of the Oral Health Foundation, the panel explored practical strategies for motivating patients.*

The experts included:

Professor Tim Newton President of the Oral Health Foundation

Rhiannon Jones

Dental Hygienist and President Elect of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy

Dr. Amit Rai GDP and Dento-Legal Adviser

Dr. Neha Mehta a newly qualified dentist

The panel discussion ranged over a series of different topics, with the panellists bringing their knowledge and insight to the conversation.

Topics discussed included:

Framing the issue

The role of the patient

Practical approaches

Working with commercial organisations Behaviour change

Listen to the conversation at Haleon HealthPartner

“BLEEDING GUMS IS SO NORMALISED.”

Dr.

“I THINK THERE’S A LACK OF UNDERSTANDING FROM A VERY YOUNG AGE OF ALL OF THE BENEFITS OF HAVING A HEALTHY MOUTH.”

Neha Mehta Rhiannon Jones

FREE tools to support your patients

Corsodyl has developed a range of tools and resources for dental professionals to help power up your patients’ gum health.

This includes our in-surgery discussion guide, designed to support conversations about simple steps to better gum health, and to help you explain to patients the potential impacts of gum disease on overall health.

Find out more at Haleon HealthPartner

Surface levels

Picture a generic dental surgery in your mind. What do you see?

Alongside a treatment centre, a wide array of cabinets, and perhaps an extraoral radiograph system, there are subtle details your mind will have already filled in. The room will no doubt be bright, but one odd element that you may have thought about without realising is that the flooring will likely be a vinyl covering, or something similar.

It seems like a strangely specific aspect, but if it was true for you, it’s important to think why – and what it says about the importance of surface contamination control.

Using vinyl flooring in a dental practice over a material that may bring more comfort underfoot – such as carpet – is one of function over form. It all links back to the materials used in dental care and the potential knockon effects of accidental spills and exposures. Carpet is not recommended where amalgam (and its mercury contents) can accidentally spill. And since the placement and removal of amalgam fillings is still a mainstay in modern dentistry, it is sensible to avoid this flooring choice in clinical areas.

The recommendation is primarily made because chemical decontamination of carpets may not be effective, with mercury droplets able to seep through the material and avoid a decontaminant kit. Spillages could therefore create the risk of longterm mercury inhalation, especially if the material is consistently spilt over time, and cannot be properly removed. The inhalation of elemental mercury can cause

nausea, vomiting and flu-like symptoms, as well as coughing, breathlessness and chest pain. Professionals working in dental practices are recognised to be at an occupational exposure risk.

The admission of carpets from dental surgeries is not only to avoid contact with amalgam products but also exposure to other bacterially contaminated products that may not be easily removable. This includes biological fluids, blood, and potentially even water from a damaged dental unit water line.

By taking this one example of the considerations regarding contamination and infection risks in dental practice, we can look wider at the actions needed to protect clinicians and patients. Amongst these surface cleaning is essential for ensuring a safe and efficient practice.

It is well known that bacteria can survive on surfaces for an extended period, depending on the type of infectious agent and the surface material itself. Dentists will be familiar with the ability of bacteria to adhere to biotic surfaces, such as teeth, in an environment where they can thrive, multiply, and cause direct harm to the oral cavity. On abiotic surfaces like the dental chair and surgery countertops, for example, microorganisms may be able to retain infectivity for hours, days and weeks at a time. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) Coronavirus (CoV) (which caused an outbreak first recognised in 2003) remains effective for up to nine days on an abiotic surface, which pales in comparison

to the influenza virus, which can present a risk for up to four weeks. Whilst they are both airborne viruses which can also be transmitted through hand-surface contact, their structures and features make them survive differently on inanimate surfaces.

The extensive periods in which microorganisms can survive in the dental practice must be combated by implementing effective hand and surface hygiene measures that minimise the spread of infection. Similarly to the preference of carpets over vinyl flooring, conscious steps must be taken immediately to protect patients and practitioners alike.

Pathogen control, decontamination and cleaning, and hand hygiene should all be key aspects of staff induction programmes, and each aspect should have its own practice policy according to Health Technical Memorandum 05-01.

Actions should be taken to directly remove the source of infection when it contaminates a surface. This might involve the use of a surface cleaner or, in the case of exposure to products such as amalgam and blood, a dedicated spillage and decontamination kit.

Initial Medical can help clinicians reduce the incidence of cross contamination in everyday practice by providing a range of solutions that aid surface infection control. Alongside a Mercury Spill Kit, which contains all of the necessary solutions to remove mercury beads and contain recovered material safely, clinicians can also access high-quality handwashing products for gold standard infection control. This includes the alcohol-free UltraProtect Hand Sanitiser, which kills 99.9% of germs and provides up to eight hours of hand surface protection. Understanding the risks posed by bacteria lying dormant on the surfaces in the dental practice is essential. By enacting effective protocols, including hand hygiene and spillage control workflows, simple changes can be made to optimise safety – without ripping up the floorboards first.

To find out more, get in touch at 0808 304 7411 or visit initial.co.uk/medical n

about the author rebecca Waters works within the research and Development team at rentokil initial and keeps up-to-date on all changes within the clinical waste management industry, as well as the specialist hygiene and infection control industries, and is an active member of the ciWM and HWMa.

Your dental equipment partner in 2025

carl Wise discusses the importance of an independent partner to deliver exceptional repairs & equipment to your practice

In the world of dental care, reliable, high-quality dental equipment forms the backbone of an efficient practice, alongside the top-tier service delivered to patients. At MC Repairs & MC Dental, we’re your dedicated, independent partners, offering a wide range of services to keep your dental practice running smoothly and eliminating downtime at your surgery.

Here’s a deeper look into our commitment to dental excellence and what sets us apart from other suppliers and repair centres.

expert solutions, all under one roof MC Repairs Ltd specializes in the repair and servicing of a wide range of dental equipment, including handpieces, motors, scalers, curing lights, scaling units, couplings, air polishers, and much more.

We cater to all makes and models. No matter what combination of equipment your practice uses, we have you covered— all under one roof. We hold accreditations from all major manufacturers.

Quality you can trust

The dental tools you rely on are essential for achieving the best treatment outcomes. If you’re experiencing issues with your equipment, you can trust us to fit the best possible components, whether they’re original manufacturer parts or premium generic options.

We tailor each repair to suit your needs, delivering cost-effective solutions while providing expert maintenance advice to keep your equipment running efficiently, well beyond its warranty period.

The same goes for new equipment. We pride ourselves on full transparency. If you’re in the market for new equipment, we’ll provide neutral, unbiased recommendations, ensuring you get the best possible equipment within your budget and suited to your practice’s needs.

Swift turnaround, minimal downtime

We understand the urgency of dental practices, which is why we prioritize speed without compromising on quality. All handpieces are quoted on the day

we receive them, and most repairs are completed and returned within 24 hours. This commitment ensures your equipment isn’t out of service any longer than necessary, minimising downtime. We offer free, no-obligation quotes on all equipment repairs. Before any work is carried out, you’ll have a clear understanding of the costs involved. We pride ourselves on delivering the best value repair service in the UK, ensuring top-tier service without unexpected costs.

iSO-certified excellence

At MC Repairs, quality isn’t just a promise; it’s a standard. We are ISO 9001:2015 certified, a testament to our quality control and consistent performance. Our

certified technicians bring over 30 years of experience and undergo continuous training, including sessions with some of the world’s largest dental manufacturers. Our dedication to environmentally responsible repairs has also earned us ISO 14001 certification, ensuring our repair processes are efficient and ecofriendly. We’re proud to be the UK’s leading sustainable repair centre.

Your dental equipment partner

At MC Repairs and MC Dental, we understand the vital role your equipment plays in delivering exceptional patient care. As an independent repair and sales provider, we offer a partnership that combines complete transparency, reliability, and unmatched expertise. By partnering with MC Repairs, you can trust that every repair and service is handled with precision and care. With MC Dental, we take it a step further by equipping your surgery with the most reliable and advanced equipment and accessories—all at competitive prices. Whether it’s repairing existing handpieces or upgrading your tools, we provide the perfect support to keep your practice running efficiently and successfully. You can rely on us as your dedicated dental equipment partner. We’ll ensure your dental practice is fully equipped to deliver the highest level of care while supporting your growth and success. n

Infection control team training

Any team is only as good as the training and support they receive. In the dental practice, both of these elements are crucial for the safe and smooth daily running of the business. They are also integral to ensuring an excellent patient experience, as happy, competent and confident dental professionals are best placed to guide patients through a positive treatment journey.

There are many aspects to consider when it comes to updating or advancing the team’s skills through training. Clinical areas are often the first port of call, refreshing knowledge and enabling individuals to learn new techniques or evidence-based concepts. As important as this is, training must also be delivered in non-clinical topics to optimise efficiency and safety around the practice. In particular, it is crucial that every member of the professional team understands their role within the practice’s infection control and prevention protocols. Training must, therefore, be delivered for all new team members, as well as periodically throughout the years to keep everyone’s knowledge fresh and up-to-date with the latest research and regulations in the field.

Optimise team training

Like all other processes within the busy modern dental practice, it is necessary to

streamline team decontamination training to maximise time and return on investment. Here are our top tips:

allocate specific time

Time in the dental practice can get away from you very quickly. By dedicating a morning every 6-12 months to decontamination training for the whole team, you can make sure that everyone receives the refresher they need. Consider blocking out the time in the diary and encouraging everyone to write down a question or query prior to the training to ensure everyone fully utilises the time.

Maintain consistency

Whether your practice meets best practice guidelines or you are working towards them, it is vital to remain consistent with all your decontamination protocols. New staff should be shown the ropes as part of their induction to ensure that processes don’t change and safety standards remain high. Everyone should follow the same steps and use the same equipment in the same way.

Keep communication open Colleagues shouldn’t wait until your annual team training to raise a concern or clarify a query when it comes to their patients’ or their own safety. Make sure everyone knows who your Decontamination Lead is so they can

contact them whenever they need to. This person will be well-positioned to support colleagues with their infection control processes on a daily basis.

provide additional resources

To further ensure the quality, consistency and efficacy of decontamination processes throughout the practice, it is beneficial to give team members resources they can access at any time to serve as reminders. Options include online-based educational tools or presentations and guidance posters placed at appropriate points around the practice.

two birds, one stone

Encouraging team engagement, why not also make your decontamination training ECPD accredited? This way, individuals can refresh their knowledge and record the training as part of their mandatory ECPD requirements.

a supplier you can trust

When it comes to your decontamination equipment, processes or team training, it is important to work with a supplier you trust to reflect the same high-quality standards you strive for. They should be experts in the field, with adequate knowledge, understanding and experience in dental infection control to advise you on every aspect of your own protocols for elevated safety and workflow efficiency.

That’s why Eschmann remains a leading expert in decontamination for dental practices across the UK. Not only does Eschmann provide some of the most reliable, efficient and robust infection control equipment in the industry, but they also offer Enhanced CPD user training as standard for your team. The experts remain available to you and your practice when you need information or support in the field too, for added value and peace of mind.

a confident team is a safe team

The dental team has a crucial role to play in keeping patients and colleagues safe from harm when visiting the practice. To fulfil this responsibility, you and all your team must be competent and confident in your decontamination protocols. Regular training and ongoing support make this possible. For more details on the decontamination support, enhanced CPD user training and equipment Eschmann offers, please visit eschmann.co.uk or call 01903 753322 n

about the author

Nicky Varney, Senior Marketing Manager at eschmann.

The psychology of designing a dental practice

Let’s start with the obvious; the value of any dental practice is measured on the quality of its service and its equipment. While offering the best possible care to every patient is paramount, in today’s fast-paced world, practices cannot escape the dreaded Google reviews from patients. Therefore, offering an environment that is harmonious and welcoming for both patients and staff, and is designed to function at its best will guarantee a smoother practice allround. It may sound far-fetched to some, but by incorporating design principles, such as Feng Shui, practice owners can optimise the flow of energy to help to reduce patient anxiety, enhance comfort and improve overall well-being.

Feng Shui is an ancient Chinese knowledge that is believed to have originated some 6,000 years ago. Put simply, the principles explain how the placement of objects affects the energy and flow of a space. By carefully selecting colours, furniture placement and lighting, for example, dental practices can foster a sense of calm and balance, which not only improves patient experience, but can also help to achieve a more productive workforce.

the importance of first impressions

The reception area, or waiting area, is arguably the most obvious space within any practice where you can inject a healthy dose of personality and add decorative design details. It’s an area where the branding of your practice can be seen but also felt.

According to Feng Shui, clutter and poor lighting can create negative energy, leading to increased tension . A clean, open layout with natural light, calming colours like blues or earth tones, and strategically placed plants or water features can help promote a sense of peace. These elements encourage a more grounded and welcoming environment, signalling to patients that they are in a safe healing space.

In private practice especially, where patients expect an atmosphere of luxury, thoughtfully integrating sensory touchpoints and layering the space with accents of tactile surfaces, soft furnishings and statement lighting fixtures can significantly elevate the sense of hospitality, enhancing the overall patient experience with warmth and comfort.

Designing for flow and functionality

The flow of energy in a dental practice is key to its overall success. A welldesigned space that considers the natural movement of both patients and staff can reduce stress and improve efficiency. For instance, ensuring clear, unobstructed pathways from the reception to treatment rooms allows for smooth transitions and eases the patient journey. Considering the ‘in-between spaces’, such as the corridors, for example, to have the same design language will also help with the flow from one space to the other.

Additionally, in the treatment room, positioning dental chairs in ways that allow patients to see the door but not directly face it helps maintain a sense of control and security – a subtle yet effective way to minimise anxiety.

colour and material choices matter

Colour psychology plays a vital role in Feng Shui design, and this can be explored further in healthcare settings. Soft, calming hues like pastel blues, greens, and neutral tones evoke a tranquil atmosphere, while overly stimulating shades like red, which can signal ‘danger’ and ‘discomfort’, should be avoided. Materials also matter – natural materials such as wood, stone, or water elements not only align with Feng Shui’s principles but also conjure a sense of grounding and connection to nature, which can help put patients at ease.

Benefits beyond the patient

Feng Shui design doesn’t just benefit patients; it can also enhance staff well-being and productivity. A harmonious workspace with good energy flow can reduce stress and burnout, leading to a happier and more efficient team. Well-placed desks and storage solutions can streamline work processes, while creating designated spaces for relaxation can give employees a muchneeded break from the demands of the job. The result? A more positive atmosphere that naturally trickles down into patient care.

5 top tips to add Feng Shui into the design of your practice

1. Optimise the entrance – keep the area well-lit and clean, with a clear path to the door. Consider adding plants or soft décor to invite positive energy into the space.

2. Balance elements – incorporate the five Feng Shui elements (wood, fire, earth, metal, and water) through colours, materials, and décor.

3. Soothing colours – where possible, choose soft, calming colours to promote relaxation.

4. Comfortable seating arrangement –in the waiting area, arrange seating to promote a sense of security and comfort. Chairs should not face directly toward the door, and patients should be able to see the entrance easily.

5. Minimise clutter and maximise cleanliness – keep the environment tidy and organised, ensuring that all areas, especially treatment rooms, are clean and well-maintained to foster a feeling of professionalism.

a worthwhile investment

By integrating Feng Shui design into dental practices – thinking about how to best layout a practice for aesthetic and practical reasons – dentists can create a more calming, efficient and harmonious environment that not only reduces patient anxiety but also enhances staff morale. Services offered by the likes of RPA Dental include design, space-planning and the procurement of the highest quality equipment on the market to transform clinical spaces into a welcoming oasis of care and healing. For more detail about the solutions and services available from RPA Dental, please visit www.dental-equipment.co.uk, call 08000 933 975 or email info@rpadental.net n

about the author adam Shaw, Sales Director at rpa Dental Ltd.

Sepsis – knowing the signs, and preventing infection

Sepsis is a critical condition that arises when the body’s immune system reacts excessively to an infection. This extreme response can cause damage to the body’s own systems, potentially leading to shock and multiple organ failure. If not identified and treated quickly, sepsis can result in death. Early recognition and prompt treatment are essential for improving outcomes.

Sepsis is usually the result of a bacterial infection, but can also be caused by viruses, parasites or fungi. Sufferers will generally require hospital treatment, and depending on the cause, may be treated with antibiotics, fluids, oxygen, medications and where needed to remove a source of infection, surgery.

Although deaths from sepsis due to odontogenic infection are rare it remains a possibility. Cases of sepsis are on the rise globally, and there is always a potential risk in any healthcare setting which should be mitigated carefully.

As sepsis can arise from a range of infections, excellent dental infection control is vital to safeguard patients. Cross contamination is possible through poorly maintained/sterilized instruments as well as improper disinfection of shared surfaces and furniture.

As important, is maintaining an awareness of the signs and symptoms. Early recognition and timely intervention can significantly improve the chances of recovery and reduce the risk of severe complications.

Prevalence of sepsis

In the UK, there are estimated to be around 245,000 cases of sepsis, and approximately 48,000 deaths due to the condition every year. In 2017, 48.9 million cases of sepsis and 11 million sepsisrelated deaths were reported globally–about 19.7% of all recorded deaths.

While the incidence of sepsis has dramatically increased over the past several decades, mortality rates have fallen. The rise in cases has been attributed to an aging population with a higher prevalence of predisposing health conditions, more frequent use of immunosuppressants, a greater frequency of invasive surgical procedures, and the spread of drug resistant pathogens. The decline in mortality rates is attributed to an improved recognition of symptoms, and faster treatment.

Sepsis can affect anyone but tends to pose a greater risk to vulnerable people, including those with a weakened immune system, who are immunosuppressed, and very young, old or frail people.

Sepsis within the dental setting

An odontogenic infection is an infection that originates from a tooth or from its supporting structures. Though rarely the case due to improvements in infection control, odontogenic infections can lead to sepsis. Patients presenting with an infection should be routinely checked for sepsis, however, patients with non-odontogenic-related infection can present with sepsis at a dental practice, so it is important to recognise the signs.

Symptoms can include mottled skin, cyanosis, changes to blood pressure and body temperature, tachycardia, rapid breathing, mental confusion, slurred speech, nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, urine cessation, severe muscle pain and a non-blanching rash. It is important to stay abreast of current specific guidelines according to the different ages and vulnerabilities presented by patients, and to be aware of when emergency protocols should be observed.

When treating odontogenic infections, clinicians must exercise caution to prevent the spread of infection. For example, when conducting root canal treatment (RCT), dentists should eliminate the source of infection; make incisions on healthy skin or mucosa; not damage vital structures during exploratory dissection; irrigate copiously; and provide adequate drainage to keep the abscess cavity open.v The use of a rubber dam is also highly recommended to further reduce the risk of infection during endodontic treatment.

Decontamination procedures

Committing to best practice in all decontamination protocols helps to prevent the spread of infection, and can reduce the risk of sepsis. To prevent cross-contamination, dental practices should ensure all policies and procedures are effective and up to date, complying with the Health Technical Memorandum 01-05: decontamination in primary care dental practices. When reprocessing

handpieces, for example, clinicians are advised to use a validated sterilizer suitable for the instrument according to manufacturer’s instructions.

W&H offers a range of high-end, easy-touse sterilizers that facilitate best practice in meeting infection control guidelines for the safe and effective reprocessing of instruments. The Lisa Mini 5L vacuum pump autoclave from W&H is an excellent choice for rapid reprocessing. This incredibly quick type B and S sterilizer can process wrapped instruments in 23 minutes, and unwrapped loads can be ready for use in 10 minutes.

Maintaining a current awareness of the signs and symptoms of sepsis is vital in ensuring patients gain access to care as quickly as possible. Implementing preventive measures against infections, including proper hygiene practices and other best practices for infection prevention and control in the dental setting, is also essential for decreasing the incidence of sepsis.

To find out more about the full range from W&H, visit www.wh.com/en_uk, call 01727 874990 or email office.uk@wh.com

About the author Jon Bryant, National Sales & Marketing Manager, W&H UK.

Time, money and clinical quality – can you have all three?

Time is money. This is a concept that most people will agree with and it is just as true in dentistry as any other industry. However, time is only money in the dental practice if it is coupled with high-quality and ethical care. As such, dental professionals must find a way to optimise efficiency in their daily workflows while maintaining excellent clinical standards.

Technology is often utilised as a way of simplifying the dental workload while also improving accuracy, predictability and efficiency of treatment outcomes. In particular, the advent and development of 3D printing is transforming the way that restorative and prosthodontic dentistry is delivered around the world. As the solutions evolve and the number of professionals using them grows, the technology is also becoming ever-more accessible.

accelerating the workflow

Traditionally, the fabrication of prosthetics was a time-consuming process that relied upon a number of technique-sensitive steps to deliver a good outcome. It would often require the transportation of an impression – whether analogue or digital – to the dental technician, who would then need to create a model and then the prescribed restoration.

With in-house 3D printing, this entire workflow is revolutionised. The days or weeks historically needed to await delivery of the prosthetic are completely eliminated. Clinicians can now go from impression to

restorative production in just hours – or even minutes with the latest technologies on the market. Modern 3D printers and ceramic materials make it possible to create and fit restorations in the mouth within 45 minutes or less!

Not only does this significantly enhance the patient experience with shorter time to teeth, but it also promotes time management for the professional team. More concise treatment provision means that patients can be seen faster and more appointments can be scheduled in a week.

a cost-effective solution

The result of this time optimisation is happier professionals and enhanced profitability for associates and the practice. This is further built upon with a growing number of highly satisfied patients, who can fast become advocates for the practice, building the business’s reputation and attracting new patients for long-term growth and sustainability.

Effective outreach

Before a patient reaches the dental chair, there are a number of steps that must be taken by the dental professional to help them get there. These include reaching out to the patient, and reminding them of their need to visit for a check-up or a routine scale and polish.

Taking this first step to help patients is essential. The latest Adult Oral Health Survey from the Office for Health Improvement & Disparities found that, prior to the COVID19 pandemic, only 63% of people attended regular check-ups, and 18% of people only did when they had problems with their mouth, teeth or dentures. 4% of people said they had never been to a dentist. This means there is a large proportion of the public that should be encouraged to keep more dental regular routines –with effective marketing and direct patient communication, there is the opportunity to begin the process of returning (or taking their first steps) to the dental chair. The task of reaching patients has many different solutions. It’s fundamental that the dental practice knows about the methods available to them, and how to utilise them effectively.

Keep it social

The use of social media is perhaps one of the most important ways for practices to reach current and prospective patients. The successful use of social media marketing will not only see posts collect likes,

Keeping an eye on the bank balance, there is an argument for 3D printing requiring a lower on-going investment than other production technologies. For example, research has found that production costs associated with 3D printing are several times less expensive than those of milled composite restorations, especially if multiple restorations are required. As the field has evolved, as is common in all areas of technology, the upfront cost of 3D printers has reduced significantly, making them a viable chairside option for many more dental practices. The latest 3D printing ceramic materials are also highly cost-effective for the many advantages that they afford.

clinical and patient benefits

As discussed at the outset, these benefits are irrelevant if the quality of the prosthetics produced diminishes. Thankfully this has not been the case, with leading solutions designed specifically to have the opposite effect. The literature has shown leading 3D printer and materials brands to deliver highly accurate and consistent results. What’s more, 3D printing is a versatile option today, with a vast range of applications in dentistry, from prosthodontics to implantology, oral and maxillofacial care, orthodontics, endodontics and periodontics. This makes the 3D printing workflow even more beneficial for more practices, who can utilise the new chairside process for a huge number of patients.

Solutions you can trust

As will have become clear, the benefits of 3D printing are plentiful, but they are only

truly maximised when the right technology and materials are introduced to the practice. This means finding a supplier you can trust to consistently deliver high-quality products and on-going services. The only provider to offer a comprehensive digital 3D printing ecosystem designed specifically for dentists, SprintRay recently launched a brand-new ceramic solution that is one-of-a-kind. The SprintRay Ceramic Crown features high strength, excellent margin fit and radiopacity. Combine this and the SprintRay Pro 3D Printer for maximum workflow efficiency –crowns can be printed in just 10 minutes, for a total treatment time of 45 minutes or under.

Don’t be late to innovate

Time is a precious commodity in the modern dental practice. Not only does an efficient treatment workflow enhance the patient experience, but it also has a positive impact on the business. The latest 3D printing technologies on the market can unlock new levels of efficiency and clinical quality. Don’t wait any longer to invest in innovation for your practice.

For more information, please visit https://sprintray.com/en-uk/ n

about the author ross phillips, Sprintray area Manager, UK & Nordics.

comments and follows, but also ensure individuals attend in-person appointments.

Patients have previously reported that their interactions with dental practice social media posts significantly influenced their decision to change dental provider. Around 41.1% of all patients will make use of such apps to research a dental practice, whether it be a new one or their current oral care provider. It’s widely recognised that successful practitioners in healthcare spaces, including dentistry, will also use a social media reputation to establish and expand their patient basis. Practices that are active online can also have an impact on the supply and demand for specific procedures, such as aesthetic dentistry, for example.

It’s important to have a target audience in mind when working with social media marketing. Each platform would not only require different approaches to a post – LinkedIn could be just text, whereas Instagram needs strong imagery and TikTok requires videos – but could reach different demographics entirely.

Facebook sees a higher daily reach to those aged 55+ compared to 15-24 yearolds (62% compared to 49%), which may change the design and language used in a post. For Instagram, however, the daily reach to the younger demographic is more than double that of the 55+ age group (53% to 23%). When TikTok comes into question, the daily reach to young adults is almost eight times that of the older demographic (35% daily reach compared to 5%). Patients of each age group may

have different oral health priorities, and look for different things from their dental practice, which creates opportunities to tailor your marketing to each platform.

Some social media sites are specifically designed for individuals to visit with certain types of content in mind. LinkedIn users, for example, would typically be scrolling through the site looking for professional insights; instead of reaching patients directly, you could be aiming to speak to dental professionals that would refer patients to your service.

traditional messaging

Alongside the very modern approach of social media, it is important that a practice doesn’t forget the most traditional forms of patient communication – direct to their front door and, with mobile phone becoming a staple of our pockets, into their hands.

Whether you send physical letters, emails or text messages, the practice should be well equipped to reach out to individual patients. This could be a useful way to remind them that months have passed since their last check up, or a notice that they have an appointment in the coming days, in the effort to reduce the chance of a no show.

Clinicians looking to improve how they reach out to patients should discover a dental practice management software solution like Sensei Cloud from Sensei, the practice and patient management brand of Carestream Dental, with the upgrade to Patient Bridge, a Sensei product, adding reminder and recall messages directly to your patients via their preferred contact

methods. These can be helpful to prompt individuals to book appointments online, and can even allow forms to be completed and signed this way too – including medical history, treatment plans, consent and FP17 – to save time in the dental chair. This gets more patients in the practice, and gives them more time to receive exceptional care.

To increase the amount of people regularly attending the dental practice, it’s often the responsibility of the clinical team to get the ball rolling. With effective communication, through both online marketing and direct messaging, patients will be reminded of their need to book an appointment in no time.

For more information on Sensei Cloud visit https://gosensei.co.uk/

For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook and Instagram @carestreamdental.uk n

about the author

Nina Gilbert, Senior Global product Line Manager at carestream

Dental.

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Agreeable architects

Setting up a dental squat is an enormous investment of time, money and resources. Yet the results are more than worthwhile, giving you a new space that meets the demands of your patients. To turn your business plan into a tangible reality, a reliable architect is required.

An architect, meaning ‘chief builder’, creates the design concept and ensures that the project meets the requirements of the client. For the construction of a dental practice, there is much to consider: a reception, a waiting area, dental treatment rooms, a staff room. With many different components and numerous logistics to consider, employing a reliable architect best ensures that the final project satisfies you and your patients.

reputable workers

Every architect is different and, when approached, each will produce a unique plan. Who you choose is the first and most vital step of designing and building a new dental practice; it will dictate how much you spend and how you will attract patients in the future.

Experience is a great starting point. As with many professions, the longer someone has been in the business, the more trustworthy and skilled they can be. Unprofessional and unreliable contractors fail to last long, with word of mouth able to spread a negative image. Checking online for recent reviews paints a picture of an architect’s ability and the quality of service they will deliver. Those who have been working within dentistry for many years will have more experience in overcoming challenges and would have completed many more dental practices. This means that they will have a better understanding of how practices have evolved and how best to meet the latest requirements.

Style

and substance

A practice should be a perfectly balanced blend of aesthetic and function. When both disciplines are enhanced to an optimal level, patient satisfaction can increase. For instance, the aesthetics of a dental practice can maintain a positive atmosphere, with colour having a strong impact on emotion. For patients with dental anxiety, bright lights and white rooms can be intimidating, creating a sterile atmosphere that feels alien – this should be avoided. Instead, architects can propose alternatives, such as using wooden materials and incorporating natural light. This will feel less clinical, easing anxieties for a more relaxed patient experience.

On a functional level, an architect should utilise the allotted space for maximum workflow efficiency. This can cover the layout of the reception and the waiting room area to avoid congestion, having enough space around the dental chair, and making the practice physically accessible for all. Furthermore, you may also want to leave

enough space for any future expansions once the business is gaining traction. Installing the latest innovations in dental technology is also recommended for a more streamlined workflow and superior outcomes – patient communication and understanding is enhanced by new digital technologies. An architect should balance all of these aspects when designing your dental squat.

clear communication

Consistent communication is essential. In the early stages of meeting with an architect, it is crucial that you note the quality of their communication. This can be something as simple as how quickly the architect gets back to a message; unexplained, delayed responses may show a lack of commitment. Establishing a channel for quick communications can help solve any problems or challenges, keeping the project on schedule.

Within the communication itself, both in-person or over message, it is essential that the architect is clear – there shouldn’t be any overhanging concerns or questions after each interaction. An architect that is asking you questions, and presents in a friendly and attentive manner, is also favourable as this shows interest in getting the job underway. Finding an architect who reliably communicates with you is therefore a crucial part of getting a dental practice designed and built.

a brand you can trust

Clover Dental Group are invaluable allies to all those designing and planning a new dental squat. The well-connected team can recommend first-class architects to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing space. This ensures optimal efficiency for your business going forwards. With reliable communication skills, Clover Dental Group offers many excellent services to support you at every step of the project.

Planning a new dental squat is daunting but ensuring that you choose a reputable architect is essential for getting the work done to the timeframes that suit you. With expert guidance on the look and performance of your future business, you can feel confident that your investment will yield excellent long-term results for maximum patient satisfaction.

For more information on the comprehensive services available from Clover Dental Group, please visit www.cloverdentalfitout.co.uk or call 07961 669996 n

about the author

Steve Kettle has worked in the dental sector for over 30 years and has a wealth of contacts all over the UK after developing strategic partnerships through dental property networks.

Sedentary behaviour and lower back pain

Lower back pain is a common condition, with a range of factors including age and sex having various impacts. In 2020, it affected 619 million people globally, and this number is expected to increase to 843 million cases by 2050, with key drivers including aging and a growing population.

Who experiences lower back pain?

Lower back pain can make it difficult to move, and can impact sufferers’ quality of life and well-being, restricting their work and social life. According to the World Health Organization, this is the leading cause of disability worldwide, and should be considered a major public health issue.

People can experience lower back pain at any age, including in childhood, teenage years, and early adulthood. Most people will experience it at some point, with prevalence peaking at around 50-55 years old, and women experiencing it more frequently than men. It can present as a dull ache or a sharp pain, and can also radiate to the legs. Lower back pain can be acute (lasting six weeks or less), sub-acute (at six to 12 weeks), or chronic (if it lasts more than 12 weeks).

the risks of sedentary behaviour

As mentioned, back pain is a common problem for many people, with risks increasing for people who are older, women, overweight, or have stress-related conditions. To help combat this growing problem, it’s important to consider lifestyle interventions which might help relieve or prevent the worsening of back pain. Researchers are interested in finding the most successful strategies to help people who experience back pain, including considering the impact that sitting for long periods of time might have.

A recent study has explored the link between sedentary behaviour (SB) and back pain. The study (which included 64 adults who were overweight, obese, or had metabolic syndrome) took place over a sixmonth period, monitoring the behaviours of 33 adults in an intervention group and 31 adults in a control group. The control group was instructed to maintain their usual behaviours, whilst the intervention group aimed to reduce SB by one hour per day. Over the course of the study, intensity of back pain increased significantly more in the control group than in the intervention group. On average, participants in the intervention group increased their vigorous physical activity by 20 minutes a day, and decreased their SB by 40 minutes a day. These results suggest that simple changes to daily habits could help those who experience lower back pain.

essential ergonomics

Sitting has become an increasingly large aspect of daily life for many people, particularly those who are office or desk-based, or those who drive for work. As established, SB can have health implications including lower back pain, in addition to heart disease and type two diabetes. As such, it’s important that individuals whose work requires them to sit for extended periods of time intentionally add physical activity to their day, and reduce SB where possible.

Further to this, ensuring that the workplace is as ergonomic as possible is essential for reducing the impact of sitting for long periods of time as much as possible. The FDI World Dental federation acknowledges the unique challenges that dentistry presents in terms of maintaining a good posture, and recommends the ideal seated position for a dental professional (head inclined slightly forward, torso upright, arms relaxed, wrists straight, hips higher than the knees, and feet flat on the floor) as well as moving and changing position throughout the day to avoid the development of musculoskeletal problems. It also highlights the importance of patient positioning which should be determined according to the dentist’s natural posture, which allows the clinician to achieve optimal performance without creating a physical burden.

There are a wide range of treatment centres available from Clark Dental to meet your needs and support your health, including the Axano treatment centre. It makes ergonomics a priority, with vertical mouth point positioning which stores your working height and automatically moves the patient’s mouth to the position that’s right for you – even enabling you to work on your feet. Further to this, Clark Dental offers a wide range of dental stools, including the Theo, Hugo, and Carl, to ensure that the time you spend seated whilst treating patients is comfortable, ergonomic, and intelligent, for the best possible experience. Maintaining dental professionals’ health is essential for protecting the future of the profession. Modern solutions mean that, whilst dental treatment requires extended periods of sitting at work, this can be a comfortable experience. Ergonomics play a big role in musculoskeletal health and, in conjunction with maintaining physical activity and reduced periods of SB, can help to reduce the risk of developing lower back pain.

For more information call Clark Dental on 01268 733 146, email info@clarkdental.co.uk or visit www.clarkdental.co.uk n

about the author

Stuart clark, Managing Director at clark Dental.

CERTIFIED

At the leading edge of strength and cutting efficiency

Petra helgesen, Endodontic Sales Manager, Optident, looks at the benefits of the recently launched Edge Utopia endodontic file system

Endodontics has seen significant developments in recent years, with new technologies, operating procedures, and materials providing new tools for improved treatment planning and predictable outcomes.

The latest developments in rotary and reciprocating NiTi (nickel titanium) instrumentation, in particular, have led to greatly improved preparation of even the most complex root canals. These files need to be flexible, but with the strength and cutting ability that also allow for minimally invasive treatment to minimise the loss of dentine and tooth structure.

Optident and Henry Schein Dental are the exclusive UK distributors for an endodontic file system that embraces all these features – the Edge Utopia range from EdgeEndo. EdgeEndo was founded in 2012 as a company dedicated to delivering highquality endodontic products to make root canal treatment safe, easy, and costeffective for general dentists and specialist endodontists alike.

With a comprehensive product offering, EdgeEndo has helped to advance endodontic treatments – with files designed for ease of use and compatible with most endodontic techniques.

With a growing trend in endodontics towards more conservative access and canal instrumentation to preserve tooth structure, Edge Utopia is the latest series of endodontic files providing all the benefits of EdgeEndo’s original files, but with enhanced technology to help deliver even more consistent and predictable outcomes.

Edge Utopia files feature a proprietary heat treatment known as FireWire Blaze. This is an innovative process that combines

a thermal treatment and a cryogenic application to create files that are not only more resilient, but also have increased torsional strength. This combination increases resistance to cyclic fatigue, even in the most challenging canals.

new features

The Edge Utopia portfolio is designed to deliver optimal cutting efficiency for precise shaping and cleaning, yet it does not require investment in new equipment or a change in clinical protocols or techniques.

Also, it is compatible with most other file systems, electric motors and handpieces to fit into all types of workflows.

All Edge Utopia files also feature an Ultra-Fit secure shank and handle to enable real-time apex locator readings, and improved calibration markings and a robust stopper for better working length control. A slightly shorter shank length helps to improve posterior access, while sharper edges and resilient blades ensure optimal cutting efficiency for precise shaping and cleaning.

The Edge Utopia file range is composed of three products:

• edge X7 UtopiaTM: a technology enhanced EdgeFile X7 with a remarkable gold blade for greatly improved performance, cutting ability and flexibility.

• edgeTaper Blaze UtopiaTM: a file with a tougher, more resilient blade than the EdgeEndo EdgeTaper PlatinumTM system to save cutting time, which can be used with the same technique as EdgeTaper Platinum.

• edgeOne-r UtopiaTM: EdgeEndo’s most advanced single file reverse reciprocating motion system to facilitate shaping, cleaning, and debris removal, especially in very curved or calcified canals.

Matching carrier-based obturators, gutta percha points and paper points complement the Edge Utopia range. All files are individually sealed in pre-sterilised blister packs ready for immediate use.

In praise of Edge-One R Utopia, Biraj Patel from Harley Street Endodontics, London, commented that, “for both general dentists and endodontists, this system provides greater control and minimises the risk of procedural errors, particularly in more complex cases. The combination of simplicity, safety, and efficiency makes root canal treatments less intimidating for general practitioners and more streamlined for specialists.

The full edge endo range is available exclusively from Optident and henry Schein Dental at optident.co.uk/endodontics/ n

About the author Petra helgesen is endodontic Sales Manager for Optident, a henry Schein company.

In-practice endodontic workshops

Edge Utopia is just the start of many exciting new developments in the world of endodontics. To help the whole team deliver clinical success, Optident’s team of Endodontic Product Specialists offer two different educational workshops delivered in the comfort of your own practice at a time to suit you.

Workshop 1: reciprocating versus rotary Files Covering the topics of:

• Advantages and disadvantages of systems

• Case selection

• Hybrid techniques

Workshop 2: Bioceramics vs Traditional Sealers Covering the topics of:

• Advantages of bioceramics

• Workflow guidance

• Application techniques

To book your in-practice workshop, contact your Optident Endodontist Sales Specialist.

Call 01943 605050

Email sales@optident.co.uk https://optident.co.uk/

Ceramir

CAD/CAM

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materials!

Ceramir CAD/CAM BLOCKS are manufactured using a patented and highly advanced laser sintering technology. The result is a material with the strength of particle infiltrated ceramics, the aesthetics of glass-ceramics and the flexibility similar to dentin.

For more information scan the QR-code with your phone

Aiding the immunocompromised

Dental professionals have long known the impact of their care on systemic health conditions, and vice versa. Many patients will be exposed to poor oral health outcomes due to conditions they have developed over time, but may not realise the full impact.

Immunodeficiency disorders are some prominent examples. The variety of conditions that compromise an individual’s ability to fight off infection may require such a magnitude of medications and treatments, and visits to healthcare institutions, that regular appointments at the dental practice and diligent oral hygiene routines could be neglected.

Neutrophil disorders are a group of immunodeficiency conditions that dental professionals could impact positively. It is worth considering how a practitioner can help patients manage their conditions appropriately, but this is only possible with a complete understanding of the needs of the individual.

Understanding neutrophil disorders

Neutrophils are effective antimicrobial cells, typically outnumbering any other immune cell found in human blood, and are replenished within an individual’s bone marrow. Of all people with congenital primary immunodeficiency disorders, approximately 20% will experience abnormal neutrophil quantity or function.

Neutrophil disorders may be caused by chemotherapy needed for cancer treatment, or due to an autoimmune condition which produces antibodies to the neutrophils or the bone marrow stem cells that produce them. The defect can also be inherited from an individual’s parents if they are carriers.

Patients may experience a variety of symptoms ranging from anaemia, to bleeding and bruising tendencies, or damage to the skin that results in abscesses or fungal infections, and generally poor wound healing, amongst others.

Treatment could take the form of G-SCF (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor) injections, which can encourage the production of neutrophils. A haematopoietic stem cell transplant may be considered as a permanent cure. Those living with neutrophil disorders should try to reduce the opportunity for infection wherever possible, including preventing gingival diseases.

the oral impact

Neutrophil defects can affect a variety of functions that keep the cells in homeostasis When this is achieved patients can develop oral health infections that could become periodontitis without intervention. Deficiency is especially of concern as their role is so prevalent in the oral cavity – around 95% or more leukocytes that are transferred to the gingival crevice in response to biofilm formation are neutrophils. The cells that are gathered at the crevice form what is described as a “defence wall” in the literature, stopping bacteria invading underlying tissues.

When a patient develops gingivitis, the body invokes an inflammatory response, and when uncontrolled this may develop into periodontitis. At this stage in an otherwise healthy patient, microbial pathogens cannot be eliminated or controlled by neutrophils; the immune system continues to recruit more to the

gingival crevice, but the excess accumulation of neutrophils can promote damage to the periodontal tissue and potential bone loss. However, if a patient experiences neutrophil deficiency, periodontitis can develop with an uncontrolled inflammatory response.vi Without the impact of the neutrophils, the condition is able to develop untouched. In another form of neutrophil disorder, where patients produce too many of the cells, a chronic inflammatory state may be induced. Without adequate homeostasis, a patient is always at risk of harm, no matter which side of the abnormal neutrophil production boundaries they are on.

Interestingly, the deficiency of neutrophil and the ensuing inflammation has been described as a “paradox” in clinical literature. Comparing it to Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency-I (LAD-I), where the paradigm presents that immune deficiency predisposes an individual to an exaggerated inflammatory response, there are stark similarities. It is thought that the lack of an appropriate immune response requires the implementation of a compensatory effect, which is often unregulatable, eventually becoming excessive and misplaced. In the case of neutrophil defects, excessive IL-17mediated inflammation is induced at the gingival crevice, driving tissue destruction.

the importance of oral hygiene

Patients with neutrophil defects may be able to manage periodontal disease effectively with twice-daily brushing, and exceptional interdental cleaning. The latter is vital when removing bacteria, debris and biofilm that aid the development of infection. Clinicians could recommend high-quality water flosser solutions, which were proven in a 2023 study to outperform traditional dental floss at improving the composition of the oral microbiome to create a healthier environment.

Individuals could use an oral hygiene adjunct from Waterpik™, whose solutions stood out in the aforementioned study, such as the Cordless Advanced water flosser. It is proven to remove up to 99.9% of plaque from treated areas with a 3-second application. Patients using the solution will find it is up to 50% more effective at improving gum health than traditional dental floss, and when used with the Pik Pocket™ tips, patients can gently deliver low-pressure rinses deep below the gumline into periodontal pockets.

Patients with conditions that affect their immune response must take active care to minimise the risk of developing disease over time. This includes keeping a strict, effective oral hygiene routine, which prevents the build-up of bacterial biofilm that induces the potentially uncontrollable cycle of tissue destruction.

For more information on Waterpik water flosser products visit www.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

about the author annastasia has been a professional educator for Waterpik since 2016 and is actively involved with the British Society of Dental hygiene and therapists

An excess of processed food

When discussing processed food, many may think of reconstituted meat, tinned foods or ready meals. Yet a vast number of everyday foods are processed, from condiments to confectionary, and crisps to cream. Any food or drink that has been changed in some way when it’s made or prepared is considered processed.

The excessive consumption of ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) has long been associated with serious health consequences, such as caries, type 2 diabetes, dementia and stroke risk. As such, dental practitioners should guide patients, particularly those at a greater risk from those health conditions, to manage their diet and be more aware of the harmful effects of UPFs.

Getting to grips

In an average British diet, 56.8% of total energy intake and 64.7% of total free sugars come from UPFs, with the majority of people exceeding the recommended limit of energy from free sugars. Comparatively, in Italy only 10% of total energy intake is sourced from UPFs. The UK’s diet relies heavily on these unhealthy foods but, whilst it is easy to encourage patients to avoid all UPFs, it is more realistic for practitioners to guide them away from the most harmful ones – not all processed foods have a negative impact.

Researchers in Sao Paulo, Brazil, designed the NOVA Food Classification system to help people differentiate foods by the varying levels of processing they have undergone. The system highlights four groups:

• Group 1: Unprocessed / Natural foods or Minimally Processed Foods

• Group 2: Processed Culinary Ingredients

• Group 3: Processed foods

• Group 4: Ultra-processed Foods

Examples of minimally processed foods that are beneficial include pasteurised milk, which has had the bacteria removed, and yoghurt without sugar, which is good for the gut microbiome. Group 3 is a combination of Group 1 and 2, where salts, sugars, oils or other substances are added to natural or minimally processed foods to enhance their taste or shelf-life, such as fruits in a sugar syrup and salted, dried or smoked meats.

Group 4 foods are categorised as industrial formulations, to the point that natural Group 1 foods form a tiny proportion of UPFs, and are hazardous when excessively consumed. These include carbonated soft drinks, preprepared pizzas, and breakfast bars.

harmful helpings

Some UPFs contain trans fats; an unhealthy product of partially hydrogenated oils. Such

culprits include fried foods, margarine, and packaged snacks. These raise the levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) and lower the levels of HDL (good cholesterol), leading to atherosclerosis. This can create blockages in the circulatory system, increasing the risk of heart attacks. Furthermore, processed meats like hot dogs and sausages are preserved using nitrates and nitrites. When cooked, these form carcinogenic nitrosamines, enhancing the risk of cancer. These are foods that at-risk patients should consume sparingly.

The overlap between a poor diet, severe health complications and oral health diseases is clear; research has found that exposure to UPFs was consistently associated with 71% of adverse health outcomes. The high levels of saturated fats, sugar and salt found in UPFs also increases the risk of developing severe health complications, such as obesity and type 2 diabetes. As these are often tied with diet, they enhance the risk of periodontitis too, with poor dental hygiene causing sugary food debris to become trapped in the oral cavity. This leads to inflamed gingivae and a higher risk of caries.

here to help

Guiding at-risk patients away from UPFs can be challenging because they are often cheaper than natural or minimally processed foods. For instance, tinned meat or fish can cost less than fresh. In the current economic climate, it may be difficult to encourage more expensive alternatives. Instead, displaying posters or leaflets that depict an overview of the NOVA Food Classification system, as well as highlighting the association between UPFs, oral health, and systemic health, can support patients. Alongside this, practitioners must recommend a consistent oral hygiene routine to minimise the impact of unhealthy UPFs on the mouth.

Interdental cleaning can access the tooth surfaces that a toothbrush cannot, removing trapped food. The FLEXI series of interdental brushes, from TANDEX, consists of 11 different sizes for an effective cleaning process. With a malleable brush and a flexible handle, each interdental brush can be customised for a comfortable experience. This increases compliance, ensuring that the teeth and gingivae are consistently healthy. With the FLEXI range, the damage caused by UPFs on the mouth can be dramatically reduced.

Processed foods are inescapable. Practitioners must educate their patients on the health hazards of UPFs, highlighting the unhealthier foods, suggest healthier alternatives and promote a reliable oral hygiene routine.

For more information on Tandex’s range of products, visit https://tandex.dk/ Our products are also available from CTS Dental Supplies at www.cts-dental.com n

about the author

Jacob Watwood on behalf of tandex.

Brush where your toothbrush can’t

Interdental brushes are the most efficient, user-friendly tool for plaque removal between teeth. TePe offer a diverse selection of award-winning interdental brushes to suit every patient’s individual needs.

Scan the QR code to view TePe’s products suitable for interdental cleaning.

A bleeding problem

Paper cuts, falls, trauma, toothbrushing – there are many ways in which the average person may find themselves bleeding. In the UK, around one in 2,000 men, women and children are diagnosed with a bleeding disorder (BD), caused by hereditary factors or a spontaneous gene mutation. This demographic is small but important due to the impact BDs have on morbidity and mortality. The three most prevalent BDs are Haemophilia A and B, and Von Willebrand disease. They all affect people indiscriminately, with diagnosis often coming without warning where there is no family history of BDs. BDs pose a challenge for dentists when it comes to delivering a restorative treatment. A simple procedure can potentially result in life-threatening bleeding if there is insufficient awareness and preventative measures are not taken. This may be one of the factors for why BD patients are less likely to visit the dentist, with the impact of this being a higher risk of developing an oral disease. Encouraging a consistent oral hygiene routine and regular dental appointments for affected patients can lower the risk of adverse oral health outcomes and make solutions such as root canal treatments safer.

Blocking and clotting

Platelets in the blood are required to start the formation of a blood clot, producing the enzymes and clotting factors needed to stop the bleeding and then contract after completion. Those with haemophilia have fewer clotting factors, meaning wounds bleed for longer. For patients with Von Willebrand’s disease – between 0.8-2% of the population – deficiency in Von Willebrand’s factor, a glycoprotein that binds the platelets together, leads to difficulties in forming the platelet plug and the final fibrin clot. This also extends bleeding time.

BDs can lead to major oral health neglect once issues have already developed. Bleeding of the gingivae during toothbrushing is often a consequence of gingival diseases. BD patients may fear the risk of bleeding and avoid either brushing effectively or consistently, or brushing at all. A neglected oral cavity can lead to periodontitis, alveolar bone loss, gingival recession and caries, presenting the need for restorative dental treatments when function and aesthetic is lost.

risk reduction

To combat oral health neglect, practitioners must promote the importance of regular dental appointments, toothbrushing and interdental brushing: the more the teeth and gingivae are cleaned, the less likely they are to bleed and the healthier the oral cavity will be. However, patients should be warned that brushing and interdental cleaning may cause bleeding in the first few days, but once the gingivae are healthy, then they are less likely to bleed.

treatment preparation

As saving an infected or damaged tooth is safer than extracting one for BD patients, endodontic treatments are preferred where at all possible. Dentists should be fully prepared to deliver safe treatments, identifying those with a bleeding disorder, and receiving the contact details for the patient’s haemophilia centre in case the dentist needs to correspond about previous healthcare treatments.

For root canal work and the subsequent restoration, BD patients can be prepared by being prescribing tranexamic acid and epsilon aminocaproic acid beforehand to control the bleeding – this should be continued with for a total of seven days afterwards. Using an electronic apex locator is a safe and precise way of determining the working length, ensuring that the treatment does not risk bleeding by going past the apex. In the event of a bleed, there must always be haemostatic agents available in the dental practice and patients should be recommended not to rinse and spit up to 24 hours after the procedure to avoid dislodging the clot.

To finish a root canal treatment, a crown or effective composite restoration provides protection and prevents the tooth from fracturing. Choosing materials which maximise treatment success and promote long-term stability is key. This means clinicians can reduce the need for a BD patient to return for follow-up appointments. Besides saving both parties time, this also minimises the need for further retreatments which may increase the risk of bleeding –especially in the case of restoration failure which prompts an extraction.

For an exceptional solution to simplify restorative treatments, the Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative from Solventum, formerly 3M Health Care, offers superb handling and excellent adaptation, enabling dentists to access deep cavities and removing the need for layering. Designed with outstanding polish retention and optimal wear resistance, using the Filtek One Bulk Fill Restorative supports the first-class restoration work that can be carried out on BD patients with ease and safety.

A BD should not inhibit a patient’s oral health. Promoting consistent oral hygiene for BD patients is crucial for their long-term health, and dental practitioners should be prepared for the challenge of treating them for long-term success.

To learn more about Solventum, please visit solventum.com/en-gb/home/oral-care/ n

©Solventum 2024. Solventum, the S logo and Filtek are trademarks of Solventum and its affiliates. 3M and Scotchbond are trademarks of 3M company.

Difficult to swallow

Although our primary remit as dental professionals is to help patients improve their oral health, there are many caveats to this. Each person in our chair will have different needs, have been through different experiences and have different priorities when it comes to their physical and mental wellbeing. We have to work with these and adapt our approach accordingly. With Eating Disorder Awareness promoted at the end of February, I felt this was a good time to consider how we might change our care for patients who have been affected by one of these terrible conditions.

In numbers

An estimated 1.25 million people have an eating disorder in the UK. Sadly, a huge proportion of children and young adults are affected by problematic eating. NHS statistics suggest that almost 60% of people aged 17-19 years experienced eating problems in 2023, with 57% of those aged 20-25 also affected. Prevalence of eating problems in most child and young adult age groups almost doubled between 2017 and 2023.

Among adults, the number of hospital admissions for eating disorders rose by 84% between 2015/16 and 2020/21. Approximately 75% of those with an eating disorder are female, demonstrating a higher risk for women. In fact, records of hospital episodes involving an eating disorder diagnosis in England for 2022-23 show that 13,758 women and 837 men were treated for anorexia nervosa in the year. Around 6,453 women and nearly 598 men were treated for bulimia nervosa, while 13,672 females and 1,253 males were admitted for an unspecified eating disorder during the same time.

Increased systemic health risks

Eating disorders have a detrimental impact on the body and the mouth. Systemic conditions associated with low weight and eating disorders include hypokalemia (imbalanced potassium in the body); hyponatremia (imbalance of water to sodium); hypophosphasteia (reduces cardiac output, and causes muscle dysfunction and pain, acute renal tubular necrosis and impaired neurological function); and bone marrow suppression. Excessive weight loss is also associated with psychological conditions like depression and anxiety, as well as contributing further to an unhealthy relationship with food. This creates a difficult cycle that makes overcoming an eating disorder even more difficult for sufferers. It’s important to remember that not all eating disorders will result in noticeable weight loss.

oral presentation

Eating disorders will commonly present with oral symptoms. Depending on what condition a patient has, frequent vomiting, binge eating and regular tooth brushing will all leave signs in the mouth.

Erosive tooth wear is a typical oral symptom of an eating disorder, often caused by regular vomiting. The lesions often feature from the cingulum across the entire lingual surface of the anterior teeth, becoming more

severe over time to also affect the dentine and palatal tooth surfaces. Where sufferers often brush their teeth after vomiting, this can cause abrasion and accelerate tooth surface loss. In addition, the loss of significant surface height can cause occlusal instability, consequently increasing the risk of temporomandibular disorders.

The soft tissues of the mouth are also likely to be affected by an eating disorder. A disordered diet can lead to vitamin deficiencies (including vitamin C), and is often high in carbohydrates and sugar, which has been linked to a higher risk of gingival inflammation.

Traumatic habits, hyposalivation and poor oral hygiene will further negatively affect periodontal health. Those with eating disorders are also more likely to experience dry lips, labial erythema, exfoliative cheilitis, palatal tissue discolouration, haemorrhagic lesions, lip-cheek biting, burning tongue, periodontal disease and gingival recession.

Supporting patients

Eating disorders are, first and foremost, mental health conditions. Their management is complex and will be tailored specifically to the individual. For the dental team, our role is to help those with a diagnosis to improve their oral health and reduce negative symptoms for a better quality of life. We may also assist in identifying eating disorders by having sensitive conversations with patients or their parents/guardians where potential oral health signs have been detected.

The Eating Disorder Awareness campaign is a great opportunity to start displaying information in the practice and to communicate key messages to patients during appointments. The theme for 2025 is that anyone can be affected by an eating disorder, regardless of age, gender or background. This is a good reminder for us all to avoid stereotypes and to be ready to help any patients who may be suffering. You can find out more about the campaign or download resources at edaw.beateatingdisorders.org.uk. For further information about the endodontic referral services available from EndoCare, please call 020 7224 0999 or visit www.endocare.co.uk n

about the author endoCare, led by Dr Michael Sultan, is one of the UK’s most trusted Specialist endodontist practices.

Can our enamel reflect our wellbeing, and that of our ancestors?

The relationship between people’s health and their dentition is complex and deeply interlinked.

New research suggests that enamel may reflect a person’s overall wellbeing. It assessed the enamel of people from three groups: Ancestral Ohlone people from a mission outpost dating to the late 1700s and early 1800s in the San Francisco Bay Area, European settlers from the late 1800s buried at a San Francisco city cemetery, and modern-day US Air Force cadets who donated wisdom teeth.

The research highlights the ways in which the presence of proteins in tooth enamel can be used to study the biological and, potentially, the emotional health of humans throughout history.

Evaluating enamel to assess wellness

Researchers evaluated the levels of two proteins (immunoglobulin G, an antibody that fights infection, and C-reactive protein, which is present during stress and inflammation in the body) in the enamel.

The Ohlone people were affected by emotional stress and infectious diseases like tuberculosis, resulting in reduced mental and physical health. They would have experienced high levels of physical and emotional stress as they suffered poor nutrition, hard labour, loss of loved ones, and displacement from their communities. Research found increased levels of both immunoglobulin G and C-reactive protein

in samples from the Ohlone people compared to the other groups, indicating both chronic disease and chronic emotional stress. The European settlers lived in a time where awareness of disease was not yet developed, and sanitation was poor, making life expectancy relatively low. Research results found that levels of immunoglobulin G and C-reactive protein were higher than that of cadets, but lower than the Ohlone people. The modernday cadets were thought to have better nutrition and overall wellbeing compared to both other groups (this was reflected in the research where no C-reactive protein was detected in their samples).

This assessment method of dental enamel offers a new way for researchers to evaluate the health of different human populations throughout history, and the impact that different circumstances had on individuals. This, in turn, reflects the delicate balance of oral and overall health – and the impacts each can have on the other.

Maintaining oral health, general health, and enamel strength

Not only are the teeth a good indicator for the health of the body, but poor oral health

can also increase the risk of other health conditions developing. For example, poor oral health is thought to be linked with increased risk of heart disease, lung disease, and diabetes. This is because the build-up of plaque triggers inflammation, leading to decay, gingivitis, and periodontitis, in turn having wider implications for the rest of the body’s health.

In order for patients to best protect their oral and general health, it is vital that they establish an effective oral hygiene routine using high-quality dental care products which work to protect the enamel. A number of factors can impact enamel strength, including age, diet, and parafunction (like bruxism). Each of these can lead to enamel wearing away, and exposing the more vulnerable dentine tissues underneath, often leading to sensitivity, caries, and increased risk of fracture. As such, clinicians must advise patients on how best to protect their dental health, and prevent sensitivity, cavities, and oral disease.

Tooth enamel is composed of calcified hydroxyapatite and proteins; it is not able to regenerate, yet is very strong and resistant to fracture and can withstand challenging environments over a number of years. As such, oral hygiene products which work to replenish minerals lost from the enamel through wear or acid erosion and provide a protective barrier against acids in the mouth, will help to prevent further damage.

The range of toothpaste from BioMin® contains an innovative formula, with BioMin® F toothpaste containing lower

When percussion, ice, heat and radiographs are not enough, electric stimulation may be the diagnostic tool you need for determining the cause of the patient’s discomfort.

The Digitest® 3 electrically stimulates the tooth to test for vitality. Comparing the response to the stimulus of the suspected tooth with an healthy tooth’s response helps you:

 identify the source of your patient’s pain

 assess tooth vitality

 test and follow up traumatized teeth

amounts of fluoride with longer lasting protection. BioMin® F contains less than 600ppm fluoride which is delivered slowly for up to 12 hours, offering patients advanced protection when it’s needed most. It works with saliva to form a fluorapatite barrier over the tooth surfaces, which strengthens and protects the enamel and combats sensitivity when used regularly. Further to this, BioMin® C has a fluoride-free formula which slowly releases minerals to create a hydroxyapatite coating, for patients who prefer to avoid fluoride.

With new research constantly shaping our understanding of the relationship between dental and general health, in addition to the impact of emotional wellbeing, clinicians are more informed than ever about the importance of preventing dental diseases, and protecting the teeth against wear. For more information about BioMin®, and their innovative range of toothpastes, please visit www.biomin.co.uk, or email marketing@biomin.co.uk.

Calling all dentists! Do you want samples or a practice visit? Speak to our UK dealers, Trycare on 01274 88 55 44 or email: dental@trycare.co.uk, or CTS on 01737 765400 or email: sales@cts-dental.com 

About the author Alec Hilton, CEO at BioMin Technologies Ltd.

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The movement towards minimally invasive endodontics

Minimally invasive endodontics (MIE) joins a movement in dentistry which emphasises the preservation of natural tooth structure while ensuring successful treatment outcomes. The aim of this approach is to reduce chair time, prevent complications, while minimising patient discomfort.

The conservative root canal treatment (RCT) approach is driven by advancements in technology, material science, and a deeper appreciation of the biomechanical properties of natural teeth.

The core principle of MIE is to minimise any processes that might compromise the integrity of a patient’s tooth structure due to the removal of infected or necrotic pulp tissue, as well as through access cavity preparation and canal instrumentation. Excessive removal of dentine and enamel increases the risk of fractures and reduces the longevity of the treated tooth. MIE aims to address this concern by employing techniques that minimise unnecessary removal of healthy tooth material while still eradicating infection and preparing the tooth for restoration.

the technological advancements driving the minimally invasive approach

The success of MIE is closely tied to advancements in technical training and expertise, as well as technology and materials. Innovations like conebeam computed tomography (CBCT), magnification, irrigation devices and heattreated Nickel-Titanium (NiTi) instruments have revolutionised diagnostic capabilities, treatment planning, and procedural accuracy.

CBCT is an enhanced digital imaging technology that provides detailed threedimensional images of root canal anatomy, allowing clinicians to precisely map complex canal systems and identify pathology. It is the only imaging system that ensures the early and predictable detection of periapical lesions, with a minor risk of false positives.

Electronic apex locators (EALs) are increasingly effective and often used in combination with intraoral periapical radiographs to establish working length (WL). Establishing WL is considered an important factor in ensuring the success of RCT, and supports MIE principles by reducing the risk of under or overinstrumentation of a root, both of which can lead to RCT failure or post-operative pain. Dental operating microscopes and magnification loupes have improved visibility, enabling clinicians to create smaller, more precise access cavities and perform delicate procedures.

NiTi rotary and reciprocating files have revolutionised canal instrumentation. NiTi can be classified as an intermetallic alloy with low plasticity, meaning it resists permanent deformation after mechanical stress. These flexible files adapt to the natural curvature of canals, reducing the need for excessive shaping and preserving dentinal walls.

Advanced biocompatible sealing materials, such as bioceramics, ensure complete canal obturation even with conservative shaping. These materials have

been engineered to offer superior sealing properties and promote periapical healing. There is also exciting potential in the quickly developing field of regenerative endodontic procedures (REPs), which uses advanced biomaterials or the patient’s own blood clots to revitalise necrotic pulp. Currently only available as a treatment for immature permanent teeth, research on its efficacy for mature teeth is promising.

Due to reduced dependence on extensive instrumentation, minimally invasive approaches rely heavily on effective cleaning and disinfection of canals. Irrigation systems like sonic and ultrasonic activators enhance the penetration of irrigants, ensuring thorough decontamination without aggressive mechanical preparation.

the future of minimally invasive endodontics

The future of MIE lies in continued technological innovation that supports the precise removal of infection while optimising the integrity of the remaining natural tissue. Advances in artificial intelligence and machine learning may further refine diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning. New materials with enhanced bioactivity and regenerative potential hold promise for healing and tooth preservation. Ongoing research into biomimetic principles will likely influence the design of restorative solutions that work harmoniously with natural tooth structure.

Lasting tooth preservation has always played a central role for COLTENE, which provides all the technology needed for modern conservative endodontics. For example, the CanalPro Jeni endomotor provides total digital assistance for canal preparation, assisted by an integrated apex locator and precise software that works with four NiTi file systems, including the HyFlex EDM NiTi files, which are made using electric discharge machining (EDM) to create a unique surface that makes them stronger, more fracture resistant, and more flexible than other files.

Minimally invasive endodontics represents a transformative approach in dental care, emphasising a balance between effective treatment and tooth preservation. As technology continues to advance, MIE will create a more sustainable and patientcentred future.

For more on COLTENE, please visit colteneuk.com, email info.uk@coltene.com or call 0800 254 5115. n

about the author nicolas Coomber, Coltene national account & marketing manager.

Smiles and condyles

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) is essential for speech and mastication. When it is damaged or diseased, the ability to enjoy food and to speak with confidence is reduced, whilst changes in the facial aesthetics can increase selfconsciousness. Quality of life is therefore impacted, prompting the need for a greater understanding of the risk factors of a temporomandibular disorder (TMD).

Condylar joints are found across the body, from the wrists to the toes, and allow flexion, extension, abduction and adduction movements. The TMJ is connected to two condyles; these allow the lower jaw to pivot for talking, eating and breathing. Damage to the condyle damages the TMJ. Condylar resorption is thus associated with TMD, particularly TMJ arthralgia, and dental practitioners should be encouraged to identify its risk factors and know how to treat it, helping at-risk patients live a happier life.

Knowing the causes

Condylar resorption causes the mandibular condyles to break down, leading to bone loss and shortening the posterior part of the face. It can be noticeable for the patient; they may observe that their lower jaw has shrunk or retracted, leading to a change in their bite. The condition is rare, but has many risk factors:

• Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis

• Avascular necrosis

• Infection in the TMJ

• Orthodontic treatment, or other treatments that impact TMJ loading

• Trauma to the TMJ

Another risk factor is hormonal changes and, connected with this, age. Condylar resorption is nine times more common in women than in men, with a high prevalence for those aged between 10-20. Along with adolescence, pregnancy and other hormonal changes are also associated with disease activity flare-ups, though the condylar resorption can also be spontaneous.

Changes in the jaw

Around 60-70% of the UK population will experience some form of TMD in their lifetime. 2% of people with TMD will also report a limitation with opening their jaw, leading to extended pain and impaired function. Condylar resorption is a dominant factor for the closed lock of the TMJ, making it an essential risk for practitioners to help vulnerable patients with.

had condylar erosion, whilst among asymptomatic patients only 21.2% had it. A grade III condylar erosion leads to a high increase in the risk of TMJ arthralgia, inflaming the joints. This can cause notable joint sounds, headaches pain, and irregular or deviating jaw function.

As changes in the condyle alters the TMJ, condyle resorption can lead to malocclusion. An unstable occlusion can disrupt loadbearing capacity, further contributing to TMD and restricted jaw opening. Not only is a malocclusion painful and detrimental to aesthetics, but it can also increase the risk of tooth decay and tooth loss.

Diagnosis referral

To lower the risk of decay and tooth loss, practitioners should consider recommending at-risks patients for an assessment of condylar resorption so that it can be managed before there are changes to the dentofacial morphology and, for adolescent patients, to ensure mandibular growth continues uninterrupted. For a diagnosis, a medical professional will take cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans of the TMJs to visualise the key features of condylar resorption. There are many factors to consider, including the history of the patient, the family history of autoimmune diseases, lifestyle choices, and medications – dental practitioners can identify some of these beforehand. From there, the patient can be guided to the various ways of managing the disease. This can include anti-inflammatory medications, along with bite splints or night guards to prevent further mechanical damage from bruxism. For longer-term solutions, orthodontic treatment can correct malocclusions and orthognathic surgery can align the maxilla and mandible for an improved bite.

Open wide

TMDs can be painful, affecting mood and lowering a patient’s quality of life. For an excellent physical therapy solution, recommend the OraStretch® Press Jaw Rehab System from Total TMJ. The handoperated device is user-operated; a simple squeeze of the handles stretches the oral cavity to mobilise the TMJ. When abiding by the suggested treatment instructions, the device improves jaw function, reducing pain and restoring strength. With a transportable solution like this, patients can be empowered to control their health and return to a better quality of life.

Condylar resorption is rare but impactful, with further research needed to better understand its aetiology. As a risk factor for TMD and malocclusion, it is vital that practitioners expand their knowledge of condylar resorption so that they can aid effected or at-risk patients, and reduce the risk of TMJ dysfunction.

For more details about Total TMJ and the products available, please email info@totaltmj.co.uk n

The progression of degenerative joint disorders, such as osteoarthritis, leads to changes in the condyle, such as flattening and erosion. In a case study of TMJ arthralgia, 59.6% of cases also

about the author

Founded in 2018, total tmJ was created by Phil Silver, and is a specialist provider of medical devices.

Building the dental team of tomorrow

Dentistry has always been a diverse and highly rewarding profession. There are many career pathways to take and various clinical fields in which to specialise if you so wish. The profession is constantly evolving, with new research, materials and technologies reaching the market every single year. Looking ahead, there are various aspects that have the potential to shape the future of dentistry. It is essential that dentists are exposed to as many of these as possible as soon as they qualify in order to make the very most of the benefits available to patients.

A full-body approach

Modern dentistry is about much more than simply improving a patient’s dental health. Dental professionals and their teams are charged with enhancing all aspects of a patient’s health and quality of life, putting prevention first wherever possible. Any dental treatment must also be planned and executed with systemic health and personal preferences in mind – nothing should be delivered in isolation.

We have seen this holistic or comprehensive approach to dentistry grow in popularity in recent years and it is set to become even bigger in the years to come. It follows a growing demand from younger generations around the world who prioritise health and wellness, and actively seek services that support their general wellbeing. Though more research

is needed in the field, emerging studies suggest that holistic care could improve young adults’ engagement with and perception of healthcare. Aside from meeting expectations of modern patients, comprehensive dentistry also promotes the links between oral and systemic health. As the NHS campaign aims to highlight, this helps to put the mouth back into the body and encourages people to understand how one influences the other. This is a key aspect of dentistry for the future, where a more integrated approach will be crucial for enhanced health outcomes and more effective service delivery.

Teledentistry

Another way in which dental care can become more effective and efficient, is with the increased uptake of teledentistry. Dental professionals began employing the concept during the pandemic out of necessity, but it continues to afford advantages for practices and patients alike. Being able to conduct initial consultations remotely streamlines the professional workflow and means more patients can be seen in the same time, overcoming some of the major challenges in the dental and healthcare systems. It is a solution that patients seem to readily accept, demonstrating their affinity to more convenient care services. There is also an argument to be made for building relationships with anxious or phobic patients in this way, engaging with them in

the first instance while they remain in familiar surroundings. There is early evidence to show that remote consultations may help to alleviate some of the anxiety experienced by these patients.

Digital dentistry

In fact, various forms of digital dentistry have the potential to continue revolutionising the dental profession and the way that patient care is provided. Digital tools are being used for so much more than improved patient education and communication. They have become – and will continue to be – integral to the delivery of high-quality, predictable and comfortable dental treatment.

Clyde Munro Dental Group wants to ensure that dentists in the first 5 years of their careers are able to utilise the benefits of digital solutions. That’s why, as part of the Flying Start Programme, participating newly qualified dentists had a fantastic opportunity to visit the Dentsply Sirona Innovation Centre in Bensheim, Germany. Here they discovered the latest digital solutions on the market and learnt how to make the very most of the features on offer and how to troubleshoot any issues they are facing. The ultimate goal was to help clinicians deliver the highest standard of patient care, while boosting their competence and confidence while using industry-leading technologies in practice.

Delegate Dr Stuart Collier, commented: “It’s been a really interesting day to see all the new technology. This included the

new PrimeScan, the new intraoral scanner that has just came to market, and the CEREC, which I don’t have in the practice just now, so that was brandnew to me and really interesting.”

The dentist of the future Dentistry will look different in the future, but the ultimate goal will be the same –to enhance the health and wellbeing of patients. As treatment approaches and technologies change, it’s important for dentists to remain abreast of the latest innovations right from the beginning of their career. Only then will they be able to provide the best care for their patients.

To find out more about the Flying Start Programme and career development opportunities available at Clyde Munro, please visit careers.clydemunrodental.com/ flying-start-programme/. 

About the author

Graham, Chief Clinical Officer & Head of Advanced Dentistry at Clyde Munro.

Callum

Stuart Collier

Making excellence your daily standard

When we talk about ‘excellence,’ it often feels like one of two things: an unreachable goal that we chase endlessly, or a word that’s tossed around so carelessly it loses all meaning. But what if excellence wasn’t just something reserved for rare, special moments? What if we could make it part of our everyday lives?

I think about excellence (admittedly, probably a bit too often): from striving for it to achieving it, and, most importantly, making it a daily standard. For me, the goal centres around ‘how can I make excellence a consistent part of my day?’ It’s not about being perfect but about setting a higher bar for all kinds of things and making sure we’re always aiming for better, even if we don’t always hit it. So, what does excellence look like for you? Is it about focused, top-quality endodontics? Learning and growing? Showing up with intention, or being kind and patient with your family, team and clinical patients? I show up for the gym most days and, whilst I’m not yet gladiator ready, I am getting better! Improvement feels good – for me it’s the gateway drug that feeds my ambitions.

Good intentions

One of the easiest ways to start making excellence part of your everyday life is by setting the day with the best intentions. What’s your mindset for the day ahead? Are you going through the motions or are you actively aiming to bring your best self to whatever you do? Even small intentions, like deciding to be present, organised or focused can make a huge difference. For me, I find that just taking a few minutes in the morning to set a positive tone sets the stage for a more intentional day. Of course, it doesn’t always go to plan, and that’s OK.

peppering the day with outcomes you’re proud of It’s the little things that build up to excellence. Maybe it’s knocking out a task you’ve been putting off, taking some extra time to reassure a patient, or investing in learning something new and valuable. These seemingly small actions, when repeated, form a pattern of excellence. You don’t have to make huge leaps every day, but when your day includes moments that make you proud, you start to create habitual high standards.

it always comes back to Kaizen! Excellence inevitably comes from the mindset of continuous improvement. I am a Kaizen advocate – cheerleading the process of making incremental changes that add up to wholesale improvements. Adopting a curiosity and observations of your own practice can help steer you towards incremental, Kaizen-style excellence.

evaluating achievements

Another key part of excellence is taking the time to recognise your achievements. It’s easy to focus on what went wrong or what didn’t get done, but acknowledging the things you did well is equally important. Celebrate those small victories, no matter how trivial they might seem. This acknowledgement helps you stay motivated and reminds you that excellence doesn’t have to be a grand, elusive thing.

raising the bar with ‘good, better, best’

One strategy I’ve found helpful is thinking about my decisions in terms of good, better, best. This applies to pretty much everything. Whether it’s a task at work, how I communicate with others, or even how I

take care of myself, there’s always room to consider: Could this be better? Can I make a choice that pushes my standards just a little higher today? By asking yourself these questions, you naturally raise your own bar. Sometimes good is enough. Better and best might not be viable, affordable or practical. Having screened your choice, you will have made an excellent decision, where ‘good’ is the right result, based on the information available.

in summary

Excellence is about showing up with a mindset of high expectations, working towards being better, and understanding that even small progress is still progress. Excellence, when woven into the fabric of your daily life, becomes less about an unattainable goal and more about a steady, continuous pursuit of becoming the best version of yourself. And that is a powerful thing.

I must conclude that this must also apply to relaxing, switching off and quietly reflecting – they are very worthwhile endeavours. Chasing excellence shouldn’t be as exhausting as it might sound! n

About the author Dr Dhiraj Arora BDs MJDf rCs (eng) Msc (endo) pG Cert Ce. owner of evo endo, with three practices (limited to endodontics) in Twickenham, Gerrard’s Cross and slough. Dhiraj is a passionate teacher and ambassador for all things endo. follow him on instagram: @drdij_evoendo

Times change, approaches evolve, but do they improve?

Every year, the company that delivers our heating oil provides a daily tear off calendar with a historical note and a motto of homespun advice. On Wednesday 15th January, it informed me that, on this day in 1797, John Hetherington, a haberdasher, caused a riot in The Strand in London. My research led me to the The Hatter’s Gazette, which reported, ‘He was subsequently arrested, charged with a breach of the peace and inciting to riot, and fined 500 shillings.’ His crime was wearing a silk top-hat of his own design and manufacture. This hat was ‘a tall structure, having a shiny lustre and calculated to frighten timid people.’

Donning my coach and consultant hat, which is neither tall nor shiny but definitely of my own manufacture, I can only praise Mr Hetherington. He had a novel new product and chose to demonstrate in the best place possible. His subsequent arrest and the publicity gained will have been well worth any imposed fine. Indeed, The Times newspaper praised both the product and his efforts.

In the dim and distant past, when I was first listed as a registrant by the General Dental Council, the rules regarding advertising and promotion were pretty clear and could be summed up as: you must not. There were strict limits to a nameplate with its size of font, material and description of profession (dental practitioner, dental surgeon or plain dentist as I recall).

By the time I opened the doors of my first practice in 1988, these rules had been relaxed and they were later to be swept aside by the digital revolution. Also gone were the rather vague restrictions on the new phenomenon of marketing, something that many dentists didn’t quite understand and still confused with advertising.

I was able to surf on the new wave of relative freedom. A “shop” sign half a metre in height and the width of the building, level with and very visible from the top deck of the buses that stopped just outside. Regular leaflet drops, inspired by the local pizza restaurants, writing articles for local newsletters, and being available to the press and radio did no harm in getting things rolling either.

To my regret, it postponed my integration into the local dental community. One accused me as being unprofessional and trying to cheapen and commoditise a once proud profession. Another as having a high profile practice on a yuppie housing development. But they all eventually followed, to some extent.

I had always considered my practice to be independent, even when 100% of my patients were treated under NHS contact. It was my money I had risked, and my sacrifices that were made in order to succeed. This approach meant that I was emotionally and mentally prepared when the move away from reliance upon the NHS arrived.

Following the contract changes in 1990 came the draconian clawback of 1992 and the breakdown in trust between the government and the profession. You might say that the NHS dental ‘brand’ was starting to become unsustainable, and any moral contract void. The trust finally vaporised in 2006 with another imposed contract plus the relaxation of laws that not only allowed, but also encouraged, the march of corporates across the face of individual practices.

In the space of a century, dentistry has gone from “anything goes” via the four post-war decades of ‘professions don’t advertise’ to the current wild west, where many practices, especially those corporately owned, are bland, identical clones of one another. I wonder sometimes what happened to the individuality that helped to make me, and others, succeed. It is is now consumed in look-a-likes full of marketing speak.

The fundamental question: are patients better served after nearly 40 years of relaxed rules? n

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We’ve survived January, now let’s refocus, regroup and review

As we emerge from January it’s a great opportunity to consider going back to basics and reviewing our systems. Throughout 2024, I have been helping many practices with challenges that we would hope didn’t need to be managed. Often, I find myself thinking, “Seriously, I can’t believe I’m having to have this conversation again!” or “Why is this happening? I thought it was settled.” Clearly, these issues still need addressing, which has prompted me to realise the importance of reviewing and reinforcing basic systems in our daily practice lives.

Over the next few months, make a plan to delve into some of these never-ending (or often completely unresolved) topics.

HTM01-05: staff obligations and regulations

Understanding HTM01-05 is essential for maintaining high standards in dental practice. This will cover staff obligations and the regulations they must adhere to. Explore common pitfalls and how to ensure compliance, thereby minimising risks and enhancing the quality of care provided.

self-employed vs employed Navigating the complexities of

employment statuses within the practice can be challenging. Clarify the distinctions between self-employed and employed staff, addressing legal considerations and best practices. Discuss how to manage these different statuses effectively and ensure that HR policies are compliant and fair.

Diary

efficiency

Effective diary management is crucial for maintaining a smooth workflow and maximising productivity. Explore strategies to enhance diary efficiency, reduce scheduling conflicts, and ensure optimal use of time for both staff and patients.

Team meetings and communication

Strong communication is the backbone of any successful team. Focus on improving the effectiveness of team meetings and fostering open communication channels. Discuss techniques to ensure that meetings are productive, inclusive, and result in actionable outcomes.

financials: fees and processing payments

Managing the financial aspects of a dental practice is vital for sustainability. This session will delve into setting appropriate fees, processing payments efficiently, and managing financial records.

Research how to streamline financial operations and ensure transparency.

Team attitudes, performance, and appraisals

A positive team attitude and high performance are key to a successful practice. Look at how to conduct effective appraisals, provide constructive feedback, and motivate team members to foster a supportive and performance-driven culture.

patient complaints, reviews, and feedback

Handling patient complaints and feedback constructively is crucial for continuous improvement. Explore best practices for managing complaints, leveraging reviews, and using feedback to enhance patient satisfaction and practice reputation.

Compliance and managing change

Ensuring compliance and effectively managing change are ongoing challenges in any practice. Review compliance requirements, strategies for managing change, and how to keep the practice adaptable and resilient in the face of evolving regulations and market conditions.

By taking the time to review and reinforce these basic systems, we can

A history of innovation at BADN

BADN constantly updates what it offers dental nurses – and always has done. Often, BADN has led the way in introducing new ideas to dental associations. Our BAD n r ewards scheme, for example – which we introduced more than 20 years ago in conjunction with Parliament Hill, offers a wide range of special offers and discounts on everything from glasses to fridges, holidays and travel to magazine subscriptions, high street shopping to breakdown cover (and just about everything in between) – was a first in dentistry. It is estimated that BAD n members can save around £480 a year* using BADN Rewards! Not to mention our Legal Helpline , where members can get free legal advice. We were t he first DC p Association to offer our members specialised indemnity cover , back in 2008 when registration was introduced. Unlike many others, our cover is dental nurse specific and individual to the member, so goes with you from job to job – and includes both patient damages and legal costs cover for GDC investigations. Our (online/digital) Journal has included C p D for members since the requirement was introduced in the late 00s. And, on the subject of CPD, our Coffee Catch Ups – which offer members CPD and an opportunity to network – started in late 2020, following on from the success of our online 80th

Anniversary Afternoon Tea! This has led to the creation of our C p D p ortal , which was launched late last year.

We have had a Job Board in conjunction with various job-finding organisations for several years, but late last year we introduced our own BADN Job Board, so dental practices can advertise dental jobs to a specific dental audience, instead of to the general public.

We can’t claim to be the first Association to have a partnership scheme with the dental trade (we pinched that idea from the DLA In the late 90s), but our BAD n Affiliates s cheme is going strong with both small training providers and large companies, such as Philips, keen to sign up and enjoy the benefits of the Scheme. Social media has advanced significantly

over the last few years, and BADN has been at the forefront – with our e-newsletters, pre- (showing the location of the BADN stand on the Show floor plan) and post- (recounting highlights of the BADN stand and speakers) show videos, and our BAD n app – all thanks to our IT & Comms guru, Jacek. The health and wellbeing of our members has been a major concern of BADN since before “wellness” was a thing! In fact, the first Conference I organised in Bournemouth in 1993 had, as its theme, ‘Caring for the Carers’ . Since 2021, we have had the Health & Wellness Hub in our members’ area, which has information and articles on physical, mental and financial health, as well as a counselling/support helpline. Since late 2024, we also, in conjunction with Molar

create a more streamlined, efficient, and stress-free working environment. It’s all about getting back to the fundamentals and ensuring that everyone is on the same page.

As a practice manager with over 28 years of experience, believe me when I say the job is never-ending. Even after all that time, I still find myself saying, “Well, that’s a new one!” The beauty and challenge of this role lie in its constant evolution and the surprises it brings. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, something new comes along to keep you on your toes.

However, it’s these very challenges that make the job exciting and fulfilling. By continually reviewing and improving our systems, we can ensure that we are always prepared to handle whatever comes our way. So, let’s embrace the journey, keep learning, and make 2025 a year of growth and improvement for our practices. n

About the author

Lisa Bainham is president at ADAM and practice management coach at practice Management Matters.

Mentoring, have our Wellness Wall , where members can: share inspirational memes, cartoons, quotations, etc.; post what they are feeling thankful for on Thankful Thursdays; and, on Foodie Fridays, share healthy, nutritious but delicious recipes with dental nurse colleagues. Once a month, the post that gets the most likes from members will win a free year’s BADN membership. And, in 2025, BADN will continue to innovate – introducing more new services to support dental nurses in their professional and personal lives. All this for less than £1 a week – and it’s tax allowable!

As someone once said: “You know you are getting something right when other Associations start copying you!” n

“This average member saving is based on a sample of 561 savings calculator entries since 05/01/2013 with repeated entries and the top 20% removed. The average saving figure is correct as of 28/01/2025. Potential savings generated from the calculator are not guaranteed, and are based on you using specific benefits.

About the author pam swain MBe is Chief executive of BADn

The importance of international connections

Science is naturally international, with researchers and global organisations constantly collaborating to further the progress of their fields. International exchange of information is essential for enhancing training, addressing global challenges, and improving standards of education – with global collaboration associated with superior innovation.

It is thought that astronomy is the most international scientific field, followed by areas of geoscience, mathematics, biological science, and physics. As a result, there are more internationally co-authored research papers in these areas – benefitting each scientific field in terms of sharing costly equipment, improving communications, increasing global research, and expanding research capabilities.

Dentistry is no different, with the benefits of sharing and collaborating on research being felt by those working in the field. As such, it is important that dental professionals continue to take part in international events, and access resources provided by, or in collaboration with, international colleagues to diversify their learning and expand their networks.

sharing knowledge

One of the most important benefits of working with professionals from other countries is the opportunity to share knowledge. By opening communication channels with colleagues in other countries, we gain access to knowledge, innovation, and capabilities that may not be available at home. In turn, collaboration can support and strengthen domestic research, with international talent and infrastructure supporting research and innovation.

Addressing worldwide challenges in endodontics

In terms of endodontics, global data suggests 8.2% of teeth have been endodontically treated, and 55.7% of adults over the age of 18 have at least one root filled tooth. With more than half of the world’s population having undergone root canal treatment, the importance of encouraging global preventative efforts cannot be overstated. International communities of dentists and endodontic specialists must continue to work together to reduce disease prevalence, and help patients in the generations to come to retain their natural teeth.

improved training, research, and education

Research suggests that, whilst international collaboration is important, so is the way that it is done. It should not be undertaken

solely by text or email, and meeting people and working together in person is incredibly valuable – highlighting the importance of attending scientific meetings and conferences, especially for students and researchers to meet with collaborators and catch up about key topics.

Working with fellow dental professionals around the world helps to establish an international community, resulting in improved opportunities in training, research, and education for all. As such, becoming a part of an organisation which partners with international groups enables clinicians to join a global network, and enjoy unique experiences. In addition to its existing association with the European Society of Endodontology (ESE), the British Endodontic Society (BES) has, and will continue to build official partnerships with international member societies, in order to benefit all. As a result of these mutual agreements, members can expect discounted rates to attend all partner society meetings and congresses, allowing them to expand networks and meet with communities from around the world. At current, partner societies include AEDE Spain, SFE France, AIE Italy, and SPE Portugal with more to come throughout the year. In the spirit of sharing knowledge, some of the societies are choosing to translate the BES ‘A Guide to Good Endodontic Practice’ into their native languages for their own members.

Amongst the scientific community, international collaboration is essential for furthering progress and supporting research and development across a wide range of fields. This should be no different in dentistry, particularly in a time of technological innovation within the field of endodontics, expanding the options for clinicians and improving outcomes for patients.

For more information about the BES, or to join, please visit britishendodonticsociety.org.uk or call 07762945847 n

The art of listening

For thousands of years people have gathered to listen to speakers, from Greek orators to university lecturers. Quality can vary – we’ve all been bored by a dull teacher – but, in the hands of an excellent speaker, inspiration can strike and new possibilities unfold.

For dental practitioners, continual education is essential to keep up to date on the latest developments in the industry. Lectures, seminars, study clubs and webinars are an effective way of engaging with new technologies, techniques, debates and industry professionals, leading to longlasting changes in a practitioner’s ability.

Learning by listening

Learning by listening is of enormous benefit. The pandemic may have accelerated online learning, with some students even speeding up the recorded lectures to their preferred pace, but an in-person lecture or seminar can be more beneficial to the speaker, allowing them to better tailor the session to a live audience. Studies on university students have shown that, when possible, students also preferred in-person education for its positive emotions and superior level of communication. Whatever the preference, a combination of virtual and in-person options enriches the learning experience.

Whilst tactile and visual memories are stronger, listening is a key way to help retain information. For educational sessions, the pairing of speech with visual aids like a presentation or a prop reinforces the learning, giving practitioners a clearer understanding of a certain topic or technique.

Unlike the monotony of a textbook or other reading resources, speech varies in diction, tone and emphasis, improving the understanding for those listening. Those running lectures, seminars, study clubs and webinars, live or pre-recorded, can place greater emphasis on complicated ideas and follow at their own pace to ensure understanding and retention. This can maintain their interest, with passionate speakers injecting a sense of fun and energy.

Going worldwide

In dentistry, the opportunities to attend a lecture, seminar or webinar are bountiful. Of particular note are those run by international dental professionals; hearing from worldrenowned figures can be energising, pushing practitioners to evolve their treatments, technologies and knowledge.

A lightning strike of inspiration may come from such a speaker, giving practitioners an idea that can enhance a certain treatment.

Furthermore, listening to international speakers can broaden – or even change –the perspectives that practitioners may have on dentistry outside of the UK. This can highlight that challenges in oral health are a worldwide problem, which is best solved when dental professionals cross countries and work together. On the international front, practitioners may also travel to other parts of the UK, or even other countries, to attend unmissable dental conferences. Not only are these educationally worthwhile, but they promote travel and a cultural experience, increasing the enjoyment of the event.

Listening application in dentistry

Listening is an invaluable skill, one which a practitioner must hone to deliver cosmetic dental treatments that are aesthetically and functionally excellent. Poor listening has been described as a “silent killer of productivity and profit”. In dentistry, practitioners must listen without interruption to their patients and their fellow staff members; this reduces the risk of error and keeps the workflow running smoothly. In fact, quality listening can lead to better leadership, trust, superior job performance and a lower risk of burnout.

Furthermore, giving patients the space and time to speak is vital for the patientpractitioner relationship. Active listening is a concept from 1951 that details how a patient can unload emotionally and reveals the reason why the patient is there, with the dentist posing follow-up questions to get a clearer understanding. Active listening builds rapport and increases the self-esteem of the patient, making them feel safe and well-attended. For a comfortable patient experience, carefully listening shows care and competency, so that the patient knows the subsequent treatment will align with what they want.

fill the calendar

Lectures, seminars, webinars and study clubs are an invaluable form of CPD, one that the BACD is proud to support. A BACD membership makes it easier to manage and complete all the yearly CPD requirements, offering a variety of resources, webinars and study clubs. With the BACD, a new frontier for continuous education is unlocked as members become part of Europe’s largest cosmetic dental academy. By engaging with the BACD’s benefits, members can arm themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to shape the future of ethical cosmetic dentistry.

Listening is the most important skill in the workplace. By interacting with dental professionals across lectures and seminars, practitioners can obtain new skills and knowledge that can be enacted into the daily workflow. By supporting speakers, practitioners can support the future for the industry.

For further infomation and enquiries about the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry visit www.bacd.com n

About the author

Dr sam Jethwa is president of the British Association of Cosmetic Dentistry.

Meet the Board: Amit Mistry

Dr Amit Mistry is a nationallyrenowned dental implant surgeon, working in the North West of England. His full-time clinical practice is dedicated exclusively to dental implant related surgery, providing everything from single tooth implants to the more advanced full mouth rehabilitations that require zygomatic implants. Dr Mistry lectures extensively on his areas of expertise in this field and is a sought-after mentor by other dentists who wish to learn from his vast knowledge and experience.

Dr Mistry is a member of the Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) Board as Regional Rep for North West England. He shares a little bit about his experience with the ADI, and his role: “I have been providing dental implants for around 20 years, and have been a member for the majority of this time. It has been a fantastic environment for learning and networking with dentists in the area as well as speakers at the Study Clubs.

“In 2018-2019 I took the opportunity to run the Study Clubs in my area, as my colleague on the board at the time wasn’t able to. Following this, I thought that it would be good to be more formally involved at board level, to enable me to help shape implant dentistry in

the UK, as well as the education and events. As such, I was elected for a position on the board in 2019, and have been participating in this capacity ever since, seeing the ADI through trying times like Covid.

“I would say that education is one of the main reasons to get involved with the ADI. Our events are a great source of knowledge, with Masterclasses – like the Sinus Augmentation Masterclass in early 2024 – attracting great speakers. ADI Team Congresses are equally brilliant, encouraging the whole dental team to get together every two years. These are inspiring events, and good fun for all. They are a great opportunity to see speakers from around the world discuss their tips and techniques, and they are one of the few events in the UK who get everyone together.”

Discussing his own tips for colleagues interested in implant dentistry, he comments: “I would highly recommend getting a good mentor who can guide you and help you to navigate where you want to go in your career. Working with a good mentor can help you to shave a lot of time off of this journey. The ADI helps to facilitate this through encouraging networking at events, both locally and nationally.

“The ADI is a fantastic community, and enables clinicians to be exposed to all levels of dental implant treatment. The membership includes everyone from beginners to experienced clinicians, enabling those who are more experienced to help less experienced clinicians with how to handle things when they don’t go to according to plan.”

For more information, visit adi.org.uk 

Meet the Council: Sanjay Ardeshna

Dr Sanjay Ardeshna is an Ordinary Member of the British Endodontic Society (BES) council. He shares a little bit about himself and his experience with the BES:

“I am a specialist in endodontics, mostly working in private practice but also working as a specialty doctor/clinical supervisor at the Eastman Dental Hospital. I am an ordinary member of the BES Council and am halfway through my three-year term of office.

“I qualified from Manchester in 1991 and worked in an inner-city NHS general practice and as a part-time clinical assistant in the oral surgery department at the Manchester Dental Hospital for six years before undertaking an MSc in endodontics at the University of Manchester. After a few more years in a mixed general practice, I went to the Eastman Dental Institute

in London to embark on the three-year specialist training programme.

“I initially enrolled on my first Master’s degree because I wanted to improve my clinical endodontics and save teeth. During this time, I became more interested in the art and science of the subject, and found I had a small aptitude for the discipline. I enjoy the variety and challenges of the work and gain satisfaction when teeth can be saved.

“I joined the BES over 25 years ago to help keep me up-to-date with the latest endodontic research and techniques which were emerging at the time. The IEJ helped me do this with my further studies.

“Membership of the BES allows me to meet like-minded members of the dental profession with an interest in the endodontics, which is comparatively rare! There is a great camaraderie within the Society and I really enjoy the meetings to catch up with old friends and hopefully make new ones.

“The BES is a very proactive society and it is very interesting to see the amount of hard work that is required behind the scenes to keep it going from strength to strength.

“Outside of work, I enjoy going to the theatre, cinema, and music concerts. I also like tasty food, sparkling wine, and craft beer. I try and keep fit by cycling and running.”

For more information about the BES, or to join, please visit www.britishendodonticsociety.org.uk or call 07762945847 

3 3 3 3 3 3

Be informed – overcoming recruitment and retention problems

Despite being nearly five years on from the pandemic, recruitment and retention within the dental profession remains a stubborn problem. Practice Plan Area Manager Katrina James suggests some possible solutions

Dentistry can be one of the most rewarding of professions to be involved in. Being able to relieve the suffering of people who are in pain or to boost the self-confidence of someone through remedial or cosmetic work is a brilliant gift. So, why do some practices struggle to recruit or retain good staff?

Even though some early years dental nurses and receptionists can be on minimum wage, according to Business and Sustainability Coach, Mark Topley, it’s about much more than just pay. “It’s about what am I giving myself to; what am I going to work for?” he says. “Because one of the things that came out of the pandemic is people realised that life was short, and life was fragile. If you’re going to spend a third of your life – and that’s not a third of your waking life, it’s a third of your life – at work, then it’s got to mean something.”

culture is key

This is something I have noticed as I have been visiting practices too. The ones that have a culture of caring for each other, and others, are the ones that have a stable workforce. I have also seen this in action here at Practice Plan. If we take our field team as an example, we have many team members who have been with us for more than 10 years, and some for 20 years plus. If you ask any of them why they stay, their answer will be ‘the people and the culture.’ Culture can be something difficult to describe as it’s intangible. It’s about values and how people interact with each other. However, having the right culture can be crucial to the success of a practice. Which is why we chose it as the subject of this year’s Practice Plan Workshop Tour. Dental Business Coach, Lucie Simic, gave our practices some great advice on how to define their own practice’s culture and develop it further. For example, at Practice Plan, our culture promotes friendliness and informality. While we have leaders in roles that are respected, we don’t get hung up on hierarchy. We’re all on first

name terms regardless of whether you are our Managing Director, one of our customer service team, or working in the post room. It also means we feel able to speak up and offer ideas for improvement. We all have a common goal, which is to provide the best support to our practices as we can. That is the meaning Mark was talking about, that people get from being a Practice Plan employee.

That may all sound quite serious, but part of our culture is also to prioritise having fun. We have a team of volunteers who come together to plan ways to raise money for charity, celebrate notable dates (such as Easter and Halloween) and organise social events. These are the sorts of things that help bind teams together, and make coming to work about more than just the job.

While going out eating and drinking is great fun for a lot of people, it’s not everyone’s cup of tea, so our social events can range from food and drink at a local venue to a sports day or a treasure hunt around Oswestry. By offering a variety of different types of social events, we’re likely to appeal to a wider range of employees. Teams are made up of lots of different individuals who have different needs and wants, so it’s important to take those into account if you want to arrange a social event or team building activity. Healthy cultures take individuality into account.

Great culture sells

Having a great culture is a selling point for a practice. These days, if someone is looking for a dentist, unless one has been recommended to them personally (always the most efficient way of marketing!) they will search online. Your website and social media channels are the equivalent of your practice shop window. This is where you can show off your values and culture. Which is why it’s important to keep sections such as ‘meet the team’ and ‘about us’ updated and current. If you’re taking part in any charity fundraising events, oral health incentives or recycling pushes, then shout about them on your social channels. Celebrate successes and practice or team milestones, such as anniversaries, passing qualifications, weddings, big birthdays and awards. These are the things that show patients, and prospective employees, what you’re all about as a practice. It gives them a peek into what working there might be like. If you do it right, when it comes to recruitment, far from needing to entice people to come and work for you, you’re likely to have people approaching you to become part of the team!

encourage development

Something that ties into the culture of a business is development opportunities for staff. Gone are the days when a dental nurse wanted to remain solely a dental nurse for the rest of their career. This is especially the case with members of Gen Z. Mark Topley agrees: “Evidence shows that when younger people, under the age of 35 to 40, join an organisation, they want to be able to make a contribution immediately. It used to be that people would come in at the ground level and they were happy just to not mop the floors. Now they want to be valued, to be developed, and stretched.”

There are plenty of examples of dental nurses and receptionists who have been given the opportunity to develop their skills and expertise, and who have moved on to roles with more responsibility such as practice manager. There are some who have even bought practices of their own. However, not every receptionist or dental nurse wants to become a practice manager or owner, but they may want to develop their skills in other areas, such as treatment co-ordination, social media or marketing. Others may want to go to university and train to become hygienists, therapists or even dentists. I have seen a number of cases where a nurse has gone off to university to study and has come back to their original practice when they have completed their course. They have done this because the culture in the practice has been such that developing staff was encouraged.

So, if you’re struggling to recruit and retain staff, you may want to step back and look at your culture before you consider upping salaries or offering bonuses. It could pay dividends.

This year, Practice Plan celebrates 30 years of welcoming practices into the family, helping them to grow profitable businesses through the introduction of practice-branded membership plans. So, if you’re looking to switch provider or are considering a full or partial move away from the NHS and would like a provider that has the knowhow and who will hold your hand through the process whilst moving at a pace that’s right for you, why not start the conversation with Practice Plan, on 01691 684165, or for more information visit the Practice Plan website: www.practiceplan.co.uk n

about the author

Katrina is an area Manager who joined the dental sector in 2018 after 25 years’ working in sales and people management roles. practice plan is the UK’s leading provider of practice-branded patient membership plans, partnering with over 2,000 dental practices and offering a wide range of business support services.

Mark topley

Kat joined by lucie Simic to record a podcast about culture. Scan the Qr code to listen!

Rapid relief from toothache

Want to provide rapid relief for patients suffering with toothache? Recommend Orajel to relieve their pain whilst they wait for their appointment. Toothache is a very common problem, affecting around 24% of adults in the UK. Sufferers experience a constant pain in or around a tooth, which might be caused by issues like tooth decay, a dental abscess, a damaged filling, or a tooth fracture. It can be triggered by a range of stimuli – including cold drinks or food, sweet foods, biting down, feeling of pressure – and may not subside even once they are removed. Patients might experience a wide range of symptoms including sharp, throbbing, or constant pain, swelling and painful gingiva, a bad taste in the mouth (due to infection), and a fever or headache. Because toothache can have a variety of causes, it’s important for patients to attend the practice if they experience these symptoms, in case treatment is needed. It’s also important to establish the underlying cause of all dental pain, and to encourage patients with toothache to visit the practice when they are suffering with painful symptoms. However, they may not be able to attend the practice immediately so, in the meantime, it’s important to offer effective advice on pain management at home.

targeted pain relief when it’s needed most

Often, clinicians may be tempted to provide systemic pain killers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen, but these medications can require up to 30 minutes to take effect. Orajel delivers rapid relief in less than two minutes, with its effects lasting for several hours.

Orajel is a dental pain relief gel, which works to target pain at the source, offering patients relief from tooth ache when they need it most. Applying a topical solution ensures that patients get pain relief in the right area. This also means that patients will still be able to clean around the area as normal, rather than avoiding the area when toothbrushing due to pain.

Unique formula for lasting toothache relief

The active ingredients in Orajel include benzocaine, a local anaesthetic which temporarily blocks the pain pathways along the nerves. This prevents the brain from receiving signals of pain at the treated site. Patients should apply Orajel to the

painful area, and it will work quickly to offer lasting relief from pain.

At its full effect, Orajel lasts from 15-20 minutes, providing total numbness in the area its applied to.ii The effect will then persist at a reduced level for several hours after use, delivering continued pain relief in the topical area. When necessary, advise that patients use Orajel several times per day to experience consistent pain relief.

talking to patients about orajel

It’s important to check any other medications that your patients are taking before you recommend Orajel, to ensure it can be used safely, and keep in mind that it should only be used on adults and children over the age of two years old. When used as directed, Orajel can provide effective pain relief, so it’s important to talk to patients about how best to use it, based on the type of pain they are experiencing.

For patients with a suspected cavity, recommend that they use a clean finger to apply a pea-sized amount of Orajel directly into the cavity, for use up to four times per day. For patients who are experiencing mouth ulcers or gingival pain, recommend that patients apply a thin layer of Orajel to the tender or painful areas of the mouth. There are a range of options available to patients, depending on their unique needs. For relief of acute toothache, recommend Orajel Extra Strength, which contains 20% benzocaine, and for rapid toothache relief, recommend Orajel Dental Gel which contains 10% benzocaine. For patients with mouth ulcers or denture pain, suggest that patients use Orajel Mouth Gel which contains 10% benzocaine. Additionally, if patients are experiencing sensitivity, suggest Orajel Sensitivity ProShield toothpaste. For more information, and to see the full range of Orajel products, please visit https://www.orajel.co.uk/ n

A child’s sweet smile

It’s no secret that children have a sweet tooth. From chocolates to sweets to fruits, the foods that children love to eat are commonly filled with sugars. Frequent consumption of sweet, chewy foods can damage a child’s teeth, with trapped food particles leading to tooth decay.

Preserving a child’s oral health can be difficult, especially for children who dislike having their teeth brushed. Some parents and guardians may need support in encouraging children to comply with the daily oral hygiene routine.

With the right products, an oral hygiene routine can be better tailored to a child. This does two notable things: it makes oral hygiene more agreeable for the child, and it improves their oral health by ensuring that the teeth are brushed for the recommended time. To aid parents and guardians, the Curaprox product range for babies and kids is designed for long-lasting results.

a toothpaste solution that bears fruit Brushing twice a day can be a more flavoursome experience for children with Curaprox kids toothpaste. There are three available flavours from which parents can let the child choose from. Whether that’s the exciting zing of watermelon, the familiarity of sweet strawberries or the refreshing appeal of mint, a friendly taste can improve compliance. Each tube also features a friendly and colourful creature, helping to reinforce the easiness of oral hygiene habits and the good that it does.

These toothpastes have a fluoride content of 1,450ppm and are therefore best for children aged six and up. The fluoride strengthens the teeth and gingivae, protecting children from acidic foods and drinks, and tooth decay. The addition of enzymes supports the secretion of saliva and helps remineralise the enamel, whilst the sorbitol prevents the toothpaste from drying out for a smoother experience.

For children aged two and up, Curaprox also has a zero-fluoride strawberry option. The lack of fluoride supports developing teeth whilst still offering excellent protection and a fruity flavour. Toothpastes that taste as well as they work are ideal for children, increasing compliance and leading to superior oral health results.

Brush hour

Not every child will enjoy toothbrushing. It might feel rough or invasive, with children associating the process with negative feelings. To combat this, Curaprox has a vibrant

selection of children’s toothbrushes that can brighten the daily oral hygiene routine.

Getting a discouraged child to engage with toothbrushing starts with them choosing a suitable toothbrush; this can empower them. The Curaprox children’s toothbrush comes in green, blue, purple, pink, orange and red, avoiding bland dark colours or the sterility of white. Each has a small head and octagonal handle designed for small teeth and hands – this makes the toothbrush easier to control for the child.

The head contains 5,500 ultra-soft Curen filaments that are gentle on the teeth and gingivae whilst remaining effective at removing food particles and plaque. The combination of eye-catching colour, comfort and efficiency makes the toothbrush essential for maintaining children’s oral health.

For even more fun and colour, Curaprox also offers a Graffiti edition children’s toothbrush and a Little Bacteria edition. The result of a collaboration with established and upcoming artists, these special edition brushes add extra flair and fun to the oral hygiene routine whilst retaining the densely packed Curen filaments and ergonomic grip. The Little Bacteria edition is complemented with a kids sticker chart too, enhancing positivity towards toothbrushing.

For babies, the Curaprox baby toothbrush is ultra-soft and delicate on the gingivae. This gentle texture gives the brush a high acceptance, supporting an effective oral hygiene routine. With 4,260 Curen filaments and a rubberised brush head, there is no danger of injury and is made with an antislip material for superior grip.

spoilt for choice

Curaprox champions the notion that health begins in the mouth. For babies and children, a consistent oral hygiene routine maintains their overall health and prepares them for a life with a much smaller risk of oral disease. By finding colourful or flavoursome Curaprox solutions that are still effective prophylactics, children can enjoy their sweet treats without the worry of decay. Join Curaprox in making a better world 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 curaprox.co.uk and curaden.co.uk n

Delivering implant stability with no compromise on soft tissue adaptation

dr duncan Park presents one of his first cases using the brand-new Tapered Pro Conical implant from BioHorizons Camlog, achieving both primary stability and an excellent emergence profile on a molar implant restoration

Introduction

The fundamental goal of implant treatment is to improve function of the dentition, but it is also important to deliver aesthetics. As a relatively new treatment modality, more comprehensive research is needed in the field regarding patient priorities. However, evidence so far demonstrates patient demand for both functional and aesthetic outcomes from dental treatment, especially with regards to implantology as a more expensive elective procedure.i

The clinician’s focus is often on achieving primary stability and facilitating osseointegration, with a conical connection implant shown to deliver high stability and successful clinical outcomes.ii It is just as essential to optimise soft tissue outcomes. This necessitates the development of a good emergence profile around the implant site, utilising the temporary restoration to

encourage effective soft tissue adaptation.iii

Consideration must be given to both hard and soft tissue management whether restoring a tooth or teeth in the anterior or posterior region of the mouth.

The following case presentation demonstrates the achievement of excellent hard and tissue outcomes using a new implant system with proven protocols.

Case presentation

A 38-year-old male patient presented. He was medically fit and well, although he did admit to drinking approximately 13 units of alcohol a week. He was a regular patient of the practice and had a wellmaintained mouth. He had been advised of a problem with the LR6, despite it not causing the patient any pain.

A comprehensive assessment was conducted, revealing the LR6 to be

root filled. The tooth was fractured with limited residual tooth structure remaining. It was deemed unrestorable and therefore indicated for extraction.

Treatment options were discussed with the patient in detail, including no treatment, extraction of the LR6 alone, and extraction alongside restoration with either a bridge or an implantretained crown. The patient expressed a preference for a fixed solution and was keen to proceed with an implant.

All of the benefits, limitations and potential risks were then explored, with particular attention given to the patient’s history of dental restoration. The impact of excellent oral hygiene was also emphasised and the patient made to understand all his responsibilities in managing the long-term success of implant treatment.

To remove the tooth as safely and atraumatically as possible, it would need to be sectioned first. This would be performed as the initial phase of treatment and the site would be left to heal. A delayed placement approach was chosen in this case, partly to allow adequate bone formation at the surgical site, and partly due to the patient’s lifestyle choices. Ideally, the implant would be placed around 12 weeks after the extraction. The literature shows a lower risk of early implant failure when employing a delayed placement technique.iv

Treatment commenced with the sectioning and removal of the LR6. The patient returned to the practice approximately five months later for implant placement – the delay was due to his limited time availability. Although this was longer than planned, in this

situation, it didn’t result in any further bone loss, but did mean there was more healing in the socket at the time of placement.

A pre-operative CT scan was taken. This revealed a slightly narrow ridge measuring 8mm. The crestal ridge was about 4mm wide, while at 2mm subcrestal a width of 8mm was identified. This required the implant to be placed slightly subcrestally and deeper in comparison to the adjacent teeth in order to obtain primary stability and avoid the need for augmentation procedures.

surgical treatment provision

On the day of surgery, the patient was given 3g of amoxicillin and a 1-minute Corsodyl mouth rinse immediately pre-operatively. A flap was raised and a small alveoloplasty was performed to flatten and widen the ridge. The osteotomy was prepared to 10.5mm.

A radiograph was taken to confirm positioning of the implant. The drilling sequence followed the standard protocol set out by BioHorizons Camlog.

A 4.6mm x 10.5mm Tapered Pro Conical implant was placed, achieving excellent primary stability at a torque of approximately 50Ncm. The implant choice was driven by the volume and width of bone available in this case, as well as the proximity of the implant to the ID nerve. The design and material of the implant as a titanium alloy (Ti-6AL4V ELI) means it affords the strength required to ensure implant stability even when used in a smaller diameter, should the case demand it. The new conical connection also optimises soft tissue healing and aesthetics by creating an excellent emergence profile. Torqued to 50Ncm, high primary stability was achieved as anticipated.

A healing abutment was placed and the flap was closed tension-free using PTFE sutures. The patient was given standard post-operative instructions, which included avoiding chewing on the LR6 and eating soft foods for a few weeks while the site healed.

Fig 1 - Pre extraction radiograph; Fig 2 - Healed extraction site at the LR6; Fig 3 - Pre-operative LR6 region; Fig 4 - Digital planning of implant placement; Fig 4 - Digital planning of implant placement; Fig 5 - CT scan showing slightly narrow crestal bone; Fig 6 - Implant positioning checked; Fig 7 - Radiographic check of implant position; Fig 8 - Implant placed and torqued to 50 Ncm; Fig 9 - Implant placed; Fig 10 - Post implant placement and closure; Fig 11 - Post implant placement radiograph; Fig 12 - Radiograph taken post temporary crown fitting; Fig 13Intraoral photograph at 12 weeks post-operative; Fig 14 - Implant exposed at 12 weeks post-operative

Review

The patient returned to the practice two weeks later for removal of the sutures. Healing had been uneventful and everything was proceeding as expected. At 12-weeks post-operative, the healing abutment was removed and replaced with a wider alternative to further facilitate soft tissue stability and aesthetics, and an impression was taken for the final crown. It was noted that the soft tissue had adapted and matured very nicely around the healing abutment, with no bleeding around the emergence profile. A full contour zirconia crown bonded to titanium was fabricated and screwretained in the mouth. The patient was delighted with the outcome.

Reflections

This treatment delivered a good clinical result for the patient. Upon reflection, the only aspect I would do differently is to use a wider healing abutment immediately post-surgery, though this did not seem to affect the result in this case.

With regards to the system used, the Tapered Pro Conical implant was a good choice because it achieves excellent stability in a range of situations. It is comparable to the BioHorizons Camlog Tapered Pro implant both in terms of design, which affords primary stability, and of simplicity to place, but builds further on the design of the previous generation of products. The connection is based on the proven CONELOG design which has been available for over 13 years and is among the best available. ii The emergence profile lends itself to create a very nice curvature of the gingiva, improving the soft tissue adaptation for exceptional aesthetics and cleansability. In effect, it is the best of both companies –BioHorizons and Camlog.

For product information from BioHorizons Camlog, please visit: https://theimplanthub.com/ 

about the author

dr duncan Park is the principal of Green square dental & Implant Centre in yorkshire. since qualifying in 2003, he has completed a certificate in dental implants followed by a master’s degree in 2010. He now mentors on the implant master’s programme at ICe postgraduate dental institute and Hospital in salford, Manchester.

References available upon request

Synthetic bone graft cement consisting of 2/3 Biphasic Calcium Sulphate & 1/3 slow resorbing Hydroxyapatite granules in a 1.0cc ready syringe.

Implant rehabilitation with vertical augmentation

dr selvaraj Balaji presents an advanced case that required both vertical and horizontal soft and hard tissue augmentation to achieve an aesthetic and functional long-term result.

Afemale patient presented with concerns about her smile aesthetics due to her failed upper bridge. She was getting married the following year and was worried that her lack of confidence smiling in front of people would have a negative impact on her big day. Upon initial assessment, it was revealed that she had an anterior bridge, which had been in place for about 10-15 years and no longer looked right in the smile. The patient had approached other dentists enquiring about dental implants, but had only been offered a new bridge due to the amount of bone and soft tissue loss.

assessment and planning

A comprehensive clinical assessment was conducted, including clinical photographs, a radiograph, and evaluation of the oral hygiene, smile line and all other relevant aspects. The patient was referred to a colleague to assess the health and stability of the UR1 and UL3, which were the teeth supporting the bridge. It was important to establish the long-term prognosis of these teeth before making any further decisions about treatment. The professional recommendation was that these teeth would likely remain stable for the foreseeable future.

When the patient returned to the practice, the bridge was removed and a CT scan was taken to assess the bone level. This confirmed that the patient had both horizontal and vertical hard and soft tissue defects. As such, bone and soft tissue augmentation were indicated as part of the restoration process, to ensure sufficient tissue for the successful placement of the dental implants. The CT scan and impressions were used to plan the treatment, identifying the ideal position, angle and depth for the implants with respect to the final restoration. It was necessary to plan vertical bone augmentation using non a resorbable PTFE membrane. A combination of autogenous bone mixed with xenograft would be used. All of this, including the potential benefits, risks and limitations of treatment were described in detail to the patient. The importance of long-term oral hygiene was also emphasised to the patient, who gave fully informed consent to proceed.

Bone augmentation

On the day of surgery, the area was sufficiently numbed and a very wide flap was raised, otherwise known as a safety flap. An autogenous bone block was harvested from the lower left ramus of the mandible using a Master-Core trephine bur and safe scraper to collect the cortical bone. The bone block was particulated to facilitate early vascularisation of the graft material for enhanced healing. It is also easy to shape the graft in this form in order to properly accommodate the shape and depth of the defect.

A mixture of 60% autogenous bone and 40% xenograft was created. The PTFE

membrane was shaped according to the defect size and shape, placed and stabilised in the palatal bone with master pins.

The graft material was then applied to the defect. The membrane was folded buccally and stabilised with further master pins. It is important, at this stage, to ensure that the membrane adaptation is both stable and tight enough to hold the graft material in place. Any movement of the membrane or the graft material will lead to bone loss and could impact the treatment outcome.

Soft tissue handling is also crucial. Closure of the defect is paramount to avoid exposure of the membrane and the complications associated with this. For this case, the flap was released by using three separate techniques; the first was a mucoperio elastic technique, the second a perioplasty, and the third was orbicularis oris muscle extension. This clinical approach allowed the release of the buccal flap to safely and effectively accommodate both the hard and soft tissue grafts.

The site was closed with PTFE sutures using a bi-layer closure, where connective tissue meets connective tissue. The patient was given standard post-operative oral hygiene instructions and the site was left to heal for around eight months.

Implant placement, soft tissue grafting and restorations

Healing after the first phase of treatment was uneventful. The patient returned for the implant placement appointment as planned, during which the graft was exposed and the membrane removed.

Good, solid bone was revealed, confirming this an appropriate time for implant surgery. Following the original treatment plan, two implants (3.6 x 11mm) were placed in the UL1 and UL2 positions. The soft tissue graft was performed simultaneously, using what I call the wedding cake technique. This involves placing a thick layer of soft tissue, followed by a thinner layer of tissue on the top. This approach increases the thickness of the soft tissue around the implant crown, optimising healing and aesthetics.

The site was once again closed tensionfree sing PTFE sutures. Another three months were allowed for healing, before the implants were exposed and restored with screw-retained temporary implant crowns designed to contour the papillae. When ready for the final restorations, the patient received implant crowns on the UL1 and UL2, and standard crowns were placed on the UR1, 2 and 3 to complete the smile.

discussion

The bone grafting technique described in this case report was chosen because it offers predictable results when implemented effectively. With the right amount of autogenous bone and careful management of the flap closure before and after implant placement, we were able to optimise both the functional and aesthetic outcome. Exposure of the membrane is a very common complication associated with this type of surgery, and it usually occurs because

the soft tissue or flap closure has not been correctly managed. The soft tissue graft is also important in order to increase the gingival thickness around the implant crown – this should involve both horizontal and vertical grafting for the best results. As can be seen from the eight-year follow up photos, meticulously implementing these techniques deliver long-term stable results.

Dr Balaji provides industry-leading training courses on both hard and soft tissue management around dental implants with the ASHA Club.

For more information about how you could elevate your skills with the support of experts, please visit www.ashaclub.co.uk or call 07974 304269 n

about the author since he obtained the Bds degree, dr Balaji has worked in Maxillo-facial units in the uK for several years and gained substantial experience in surgical dentistry. He is the principal dentist of the Gallery dental Group which is made up of Meadow Walk dental Practice and the Gallery dental & Implant centre. dr Balaji is also the founder of the academy of soft and Hard tissue augmentation (asHa) and runs courses, lectures and study clubs in the uK and around europe for aspiring implantologists

‘Lifting my practice to the next level’

Struggling to decide upon a CBCT unit for his new practice, Dr Martin Sulo received a strong recommendation for Planmeca’s ProMax Classic 3D and the Compact i5 dental unit from Colin Campbell

With a quarter of a century’s clinical experience under his belt, dental surgeon Dr Martin Sulo’s Botesdale Dental Practice & Implant Clinic is now up and running. The practice is a family affair, with wife Eve handling practice manager duties.

“We have always been based in the countryside, so we do a lot of general dentistry,” Martin explains. “But, increasingly, we do more advanced treatments.

“It all started in 2018 when we started our project to build a new practice. I met Colin Campbell and I asked him which CBCT machine he would recommend because I was indecisive, and Colin pointed out the strengths of Planmeca’s ProMax Classic 3D CBCT unit.”

As featured in the October 2024 edition of The Probe , Colin Campbell had opted for the ProMax 3D Classic as it covers the entire dentition, making it an excellent option for full arch dental 3D imaging. It includes the all-in-one imaging software Planmeca Romexis, which supports all 2D and 3D imaging as well as CAD/CAM work.

“Colin highlighted Planmeca’s Ultra Low Dose feature, and the fantastic customer service that the manufacturer offers,” says Martin. “We had no hesitations in approaching Planmeca, and we even went to Helsinki to visit their factory.

“When I saw the factory, I was completely astonished to discover that something so big could still be family owned, not corporate.”

That was where Martin’s journey really began, with a decision made to go with Planmeca’s ProMax Classic 3D CBCT unit, as well as the Compact i5 dental unit.

“Planmeca has really lifted my practice to the next level, because we can tell patients, with a great deal of certainty, what is going on with their teeth. The 3D images are extremely helpful in some of the trickier diagnostic cases. Of course, I use the CBCT unit routinely for every single implant case, to retain the roots. I use it for wisdom tooth extractions, identifying nerve locations. It’s been fantastic and a huge help.

“And the fact that it has got the Ultra Low Dose functionality makes it all the more incredible!”

Planmeca Ultra Low Dose is a unique way to capture CBCT images at patient

doses comparable to or even lower than panoramic images – as proven in various scientific studies. The imaging protocol can be used with all imaging modes and voxel sizes.

“I’m not very technical, but I mastered it very easily,” says Martin. “I can export the images and collaborate with other clinicians. It really is a huge help.”

The installation of a Planmeca ProMax Classic 3D made Botesdale Dental Practice & Implant Clinic the only practice within 15-20 miles to have a CBCT scanner.

“Initially, we had a lot of referrals, and I think we have inspired other practices to get a CBCT scanner,” recalls Martin. “I think this is because there was reluctance at first, but then some of those practices could see that having a CBCT scanner is a good investment for business. It builds the practice and improves the patients’ case acceptance.”

While Martin recommends that practices look into investing in a CBCT scanner, he also advocates for Planmeca.

“Planmeca is like the Volkswagen Golf,” he says. “They have produced these machines for several generations, improving and improving on their products. I love every bit of their units.”

In addition to the ProMax Classic 3D scanner, Martin also equipped his surgery with Planmeca’s Compact i5 dental unit. Elaborating on what he loves in particular, Martin says: “I like the wireless footswitch of the Compact i5. I like the knee break that provides comfort for my patients, particularly as we have a lot of elderly patients. The unit also has a small footprint, so it doesn’t take up too much space,

and I’ve had lots of good feedback for the upholstery – it feels like every second patient, and especially our new patients, comments that it is so comfortable. I love it, and they love it.”

Compact i is Planmeca’s most widely sold dental unit family, constantly updated with new features and functionalities in order to offer clinicians around the world the best possible working companion.

The Planmeca Compact i5 dental unit, as Martin alluded to with the Volkswagen comparison, is the culmination of five generations of continuous improvement, with a sleek and distinctive, user-centric design created to stand the test of time. Product development is guided by what Planmeca believes contributes to good design: ergonomics, safety, comfort, and aesthetics.

Martin has even found a benefit in the solution Planmeca has implemented in the Compat i5’s light. “This light reacts to movement. So, when I’m doing composites, I just move my hand like a windscreen wiper, and we are in composite mode. This feature is a real luxury when compared to my previous dental chair. It’s clean, it’s tidy, and nothing is dangling down, in the way.”

The Planmeca Compact i5 is ideal for both two-handed and four-handed

Watch the full interview with

https://www.planmeca.com/testimonials/

dentistry. It provides plenty of working space for a dental assistant and offers easy access to suction tubes and other essential instruments. Since all the infection control functions are neatly organised in their own compartments, daily routines become more straightforward and less time-consuming.

“We had the opportunity to design the practice setting from scratch. So, the surgery has been set up in a perfectly ergonomic way,” Martin reflects. “There has been no compromise at all when it comes to the distance positioning of the unit’s various functionality.”

In conclusion, when considering his journey and experience with both Planmeca’s Compact i5 dental unit and ProMax Classic 3D CBCT scanner, Martin remains incredibly impressed with the family owned company that he visited in Helsinki: “Planmeca’s customer service is second to none, which is extremely valuable,” he says. “I have experienced really poor customer service with a chair and autoclave manufacturer we previously used, so, in comparison, Planmeca has been exceptional. They are always there and it’s good to be part of the Planmeca family.” n

Dr Martin Sulo here:

Struggling to decide upon a CBCT unit for his new practice, Dr Martin Sulo received a strong recommendation for Planmeca’s ProMax Classic 3D and the Compact i5 dental unit from Dr Colin Campbell.

Scan the QR code to watch the full interview with Dr Martin Sulo

SCAN ME

February: a month for dentistry

Did anyone else feel like January had 365 days alone, as we came down from the festivities and settled back into the norm? But we’ve made it to February, a month that sees Groundhog Day, a visit from St Valentine, or, for some, the long-awaited start of the Rugby Six Nations. Plus, for the dental industry, this month marks several dental related awareness events and celebrations.

Sunday 9th February is both National Toothache Day and International Dentists Day, and Friday 28th is National Tooth Fairy Day, which I’m sure you’ll agree must be celebrated as those tooth fairies do work ever so hard.

But, in my opinion, the most important dental event is National Children’s

Dental Health Month, which runs all through February. Sadly, according to data from the Office for Health Improvements and Disparities, tooth decay remains the most common reason for hospital admissions in children aged 6-10. From the reports we see in the media, and the data from Denplan’s Oral Health Survey and other research, it’s clear that children’s oral health isn’t where it should be. But, as we in the dental profession are all too aware, good oral hygiene habits should be learnt at an early age to combat the need for intervention later down the line. As the saying goes: prevention is better than cure.

This is why the BrightBites programme exists. If you’ve not yet heard about it, BrightBites is an oral health education programme that sees volunteers go into schools and other education settings to deliver interactive oral health sessions to primary school-aged children. With that in mind, there’s another relevant awareness day in February: Random Acts of Kindness Day. Have you ever considered volunteering in your community? Could it be something you do as a team building activity? BrightBites relies on volunteers to carry out its education sessions so could your random act of kindness this month be to volunteer for BrightBites and support children’s oral health?

I’ve volunteered for BrightBites myself and have so far delivered five education sessions. Each session has

brought me an immense amount of joy and, as a dental professional, the feeling that I am actively making a difference to these little, smiley faces. Whether it was in the assembly playing the higher/lower sugar cube game, borrowing the BFG’s spare teeth to demonstrate tooth brushing techniques, or even the innocence of the question “why don’t we have as many teeth as sharks?” I feel a real sense of satisfaction knowing that I have helped deliver oral health education to over 200 children through my sessions.

I and other volunteers have received some wonderful feedback from teachers and the children themselves. Hearing comments such as: “Your support enabled all of our children to have their very own toothbrush and toothpaste, which some of them have never had”, further highlights the true impact of the programme.

I recently received the fantastic news that BrightBites has reached more than 50,000 children by the end of 2024. The programme may have even surpassed 60,000 by the time you read this. But there are still so many children out there that would benefit from the programme. With it being National Children’s Dental Health Month, I’d really encourage other dental professionals to consider how they might be able to further support children’s oral health, whether that’s through volunteering or in-practice education. And if you decide that volunteering for BrightBites is how you’d like to contribute, just google ‘BrightBites’ to find out how you can get involved. n

about the author lianne Scott-Munden, Clinical Quality and Complaints Risk Manager at denplan.

Treating kids in Morocco

Last year, we treated 3,704 children in Morocco, aided by the dedication of 57 volunteers and eight translators across five trips to three different locations. Each trip was not just a medical mission but a transformative experience for both the children we treated and the volunteers who helped them. For us, helping the children in Morocco has been humbling and rewarding on many levels. It’s about more than providing dental care – it’s about connecting with a community, experiencing a different culture, and discovering a sense of purpose that goes far beyond the act of treating teeth.

us to focus on what we came to do – to help children. But, in return, it’s the volunteers who often leave with the most meaningful memories.

The real magic of our mission lies in the children we treat. Many of the kids we see have never had access to proper dental care, and their teeth show the effects of years of neglect. Despite their oral health challenges, these children greet us with the most radiant smiles. Their bravery in the face of discomfort and their genuine warmth are nothing short of inspiring. It’s a special experience to witness their courage as they sit in the dental chair, showing no fear even though they often have little knowledge of what is to come.

The cultural immersion we gain is priceless. Morocco is a country full of rich history, diversity, and warmth. We’re welcomed by incredible people who offer us their hospitality and kindness. Local associations and schools have been key in supporting our efforts, going above and beyond to coordinate logistics, secure permits, and ensure that we have everything we need. One of the most memorable aspects of the trip is the amazing food they provide for us. Their unwavering support allows

As dental professionals, we come with the intention of providing care, but we leave with so much more. Every volunteer, whether a dentist, hygienist, nurse, or translator, is deeply impacted by the experience. The dental team does more than just treat teeth; it offers reassurance to these children. In return, they leave the trip with a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment, reflecting on how much they can contribute both within their professional work and in their communities. Many volunteers also take on a mentoring role, passing on their knowledge and training to others, which enhances their own growth and experience. It’s a full-circle moment – where the act of giving becomes an opportunity for personal and professional development.

The most profound change happens within the volunteers. The condition of the children’s dental health is often a stark reminder of the disparities in access to healthcare around the world. Seeing children with such limited access to basic care, yet maintaining a positive attitude and outlook on life, is an eye-opening

experience. It’s not uncommon for volunteers to feel emotional during these trips, as they realise the challenges these kids face daily, and yet, they remain resilient and full of life. These children, with their bad teeth and bright smiles, force us all to reflect on how fortunate we are and find ourselves reevaluating what we take for granted, such as access to healthcare, family support, and the everyday comforts of life.

We go to Morocco with the intention of helping children, but we return with far more than we gave. We return humbled by the strength of the children we met, by the support of the local communities, and by the incredible journey that allowed us to connect in such a meaningful way. For all of us, it’s an experience that we will treasure forever, a reminder that the work we do is not just about fixing teeth but about building relationships and learning about the world in ways we never expected.

Please visit our website for more information: www.dentalmavericks.org n

this year’s dates so far:

Essaouira: April 5-12

Asni: April 26-May 3

Rif: May 24-31

Nov 8-15

About the author samanta Espinosa, project Coordinator, Dental Mavericks.

To learn more about our digital solutions, contact us todaymarketinguk@planmeca.com or 0800 5200 330

samanta Espinosa recalls a humbling and rewarding experience

Bioprinting in dentistry

The advent of smart biomaterials, and advanced cell culturing, along with 3D printing, is creating a range of new opportunities in dentistry by enabling patient-specific treatments. Not only can biomaterial be printed in patterns tailored precisely to meet each patient’s needs, it can incorporate living cells, and can be engineered to enhance the bio-integration and healing process on a cellular level.

For the oral surgeon and implant dentist, this burgeoning technology offers exciting possibilities for the treatment of edentulous patients with a severely atrophic jaw. 3D printing, and fabrication based on digital scans has enabled bespoke restorations for many years. The 3D printing of biomaterials can also be used to create patient-specific meshes to regenerate bone and tissue defects, such as those in a severely resorbed alveolar ridge. The technology is fast growing, and knowledge of bioprinting is likely to form an essential part of the skillset of an advanced practitioner.

the development of bioprinting

Since 1988, scientists have been developing bioprinting – the clinical application of 3D printing – with increasing success. 3D printing, or stereolithography, was invented in 1984 by Charles Hull. This technology uses 3D digital constructs created by CAD software to direct the layering of materials into real objects. Over time, this has moved from the creation of liquid photopolymer machine components, to the manufacture of bespoke biocompatible or bioactive materials, organs, bone and tissue for implant or transplant.

The technology continues to open up new opportunities within dentistry and systemic medicine, offering new hope for patients with a range of needs. Human skin tissue, a 3D printed heart with blood vessels and a 3D printed lung air sac have all been developed within the last 7 years. 2015 marked the use of bioprinting in the treatment of a large periodontal osseous defect. The procedure was completed using a 3D printed bioresorbable patient-specific polymer scaffold and signalling growth factor (a biologically active molecule affecting the growth of cells). This was the first such use of the technology on a human subject.

Bone tissue engineering materials

3D bioprinting uses hydrogels, or ‘bioinks’, which consist of cells that feature a modifiable chemical composition, along with adjustable mechanical and biodegradation properties. This versatility allows for the creation of tailored materials suitable for various applications in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine. Bioinks can be tailored to produce various geometries to fit any tissue defect. They can construct complex inner tissue structure to emulate different cells in the body, making bioprinted material an excellent scaffold. For this reason, bioprinting has demonstrated huge potential in bone remodelling.

Normal bone tissue is made up of natural materials such as collagen and hydroxyapatite. The use of different types of natural and artificial biomaterials has been explored to enable the regeneration of bone defects. Biomaterials can be derived from metals, polymers, ceramics, and natural materials.

Natural polymer materials like chitosan, alginate, and collagen are used in hydrogels.

While biocompatible, non-toxic and immunogenic, these materials have poor mechanical properties, and so are commonly used in combination with alloplastic, or artificial, biologically inert materials like polylactic acid, polylactic acid, and polycaprolactone (PCL) or polycaprolactone–tricalcium phosphate (PCL-TCP).

treatment of alveolar bone defects using bioprinting

For patients experiencing bone tissue loss, alveolar ridge augmentation is essential for regenerating bone and restoring the alveolar ridge, which helps ensure the longterm stability of implants. The current gold standard for grafting is autogenous bone due to its predictability, biocompatibility, shorter healing times, and lower costs compared to alternative graft materials.

Concerns about donor site morbidity, chair and recovery time can be mitigated through new harvesting techniques, such as piezoelectric surgery. However, in autogenic bone harvesting, the volume of material acquired is usually limited, and the replacement rate of those autografts may be unpredictable. Bioprinting has been suggested as a solution to the high demand for these bone grafts, while overcoming some of the challenges posed by grafting materials. The complex anatomy surrounding the oral cavity and the multidirectional forces faced by oral–maxillofacial bone tissues during jaw movement present some of these challenges. Bioprinted combinations of PCL and adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs) have been proposed to counter this, and these materials have already shown promising results in laboratory tests.

evidence-based learning

While research and development is ongoing in these areas, clinicians are already implementing various 3D printed solutions in practice. The ICE Postgraduate Dental Institute and Hospital is offering a handson course focusing on 3D patient-specific customised grafting for the reconstruction of the resorbed alveolar ridge. Led by eminent specialist oral surgeon Professor Cemal Ucer, assisted by faculty with expertise in Biomedical Engineering, the course provides an evidence-based knowledge of different strategies used for the treatment of hard and soft tissue alveolar ridge defects. Delegates will also critically appraise the different classes of regenerative biomaterials; xenografts, allografts and synthetics.

We have yet to experience the whole potential of bioprinting to treat alveolar bone defects, as well as a range of conditions affecting bone and soft tissue. To ensure a complete understanding of the ways in which these exciting innovations are advancing is a must to be part of this revolutionary technology.

Please contact Professor Ucer at ucer@icedental.institute or Mel Hay at mel@mdic.co 01612 371842

www.ucer-clinic.dental n

about the author

Professor cemal ucer

(BdS, MSc, Phd, oral Surgeon, iti Fellow).

Learning through mentorship

Afundamental aspect of any clinician’s journey is the process of learning and developing new skills. This continues throughout a career in dentistry, as professionals strive to improve their patient care.

For every student in dentistry, there must be a mentor. This professional relationship is imperative in modern healthcare fields, and relies on individuals being able and willing to step up to teach others.

Whether you are at the beginning of your clinical journey, or feel able to take on such a role right away, it’s important to consider what makes a good mentor. Not only can this help you develop your approach, but it may also open up new opportunities to learn whilst in this position, furthering your own capabilities.

Mentors never stop learning

Clinical mentoring must be based on current best practices and evidence-based guidelines – without these, truly successful outcomes cannot be achieved. It’s vital that clinicians keep up with the latest findings in the wider dental sphere and the fields they focus on, and endeavour to apply new learnings into their own approach to patient care. This process may take many forms; individuals could turn to published journals and the research that they present, as well as take on one-day or weekend courses that introduce new workflows and treatment techniques.

Moreso, it would be important to take on longer-form courses that ensure you are able to excel in the areas of care that you intend to focus on and go on to teach others. As well as this, you may develop improved knowledge of more advanced skills that allow you to identify when a clinical problem may be too complex for a given moment in a mentee’s journey.

NHS England provides guidance on the broader subject of mentorship, and requires all in this position to have a formal mentoring qualification, training and/or experience. This ensures mentees can access high-quality tutoring, and allows professionals that take on a teaching role to feel confident in their abilities. Such courses will be available at a wide range of institutions, but suitable experience may also come through working alongside other professionals who have delivered educational and mentoring support for years already; they are the guide for the mentor-to-be.

a success if the message is understood completely. In the modern approach to dental care, there are many ways that the mentoring relationship could commence. Clinicians need to be confident in their ability to translate their thoughts in person or online, depending on how the mentoring relationship is configured. Neither approach is easier than the other, but developing each is essential. This could present new challenges to professionals, but asking for feedback of their own from both mentees and other experienced professionals can be helpful; in turn, they may find an opportunity to refine and improve their chosen methods of communication.

Dental professionals can strongly benefit from the discussions that specifically come out of in-person peer mentoring. Previous literature has observed positive communicative outcomes in these settings. Some clinicians felt that it offered a new chance to reflect on their experiences, and students noted that hearing feedback from a peer was sometimes easier than hearing it from faculty staff. This also creates the chance for clinicians to develop their essential professional soft-skills.

The dynamic of a peer mentor relationship can also drive productive results and successful clinical developments. The literature has found clinicians may feel a sense of increased confidence, or determination to improve clinical outcomes when working with a partner and being tasked to assess their skills. There is also the opportunity for shared ideas, and a discovery of new ways of thinking, which can effectively equip clinicians when they proceed to mentor further in the future.

The Postgraduate Diploma in Implant Dentistry from One to One Implant Education is the perfect opportunity for dental professionals to develop their clinical skills and mentoring capabilities. Expert clinicians Dr Fazeela Khan-Osborne and Dr Nikolas Vourakis teach a myriad of clinical features such as immediate implant placement, guided bone regeneration, full arch implant dentistry, and more. The course features a tiered peer mentor system, which offers delegates the opportunity to learn from those who have completed the course before and therefore understand the clinical demands required of them – in turn, they can help to mentor others, developing their own skills further.

Mentoring is an essential part of dentistry, but it would be remiss to say that only a student or mentee learns in this relationship. The teacher themselves can discover so much through the process, a key reward for taking on such a pivotal role.

To reserve your place or to find out more, please visit 121implanteducation.co.uk or call 020 7486 0000. n

about the authors dr Fazeela Khanosborne, Principal implant and Restorative Surgeon.

communication and the peer mentoring experience

Effective communication is paramount in the mentoring relationship and relies on authenticity through both verbal and non-verbal actions. The opportunity to dispense information is only considered

dr nikolas Vourakis, Senior implant and Restorative Surgeon in private clinics in London and edinburgh.

First VST Course arrives in May

Trycare are delighted to announce that Dr Abdelsalam Elaskary, founder of Vestibular Socket Therapy (VST), will be bringing his internationally popular VST One Day Hands-on Workshop to the UK for the first time on Saturday 10th May 2025. But there are only 20 places available so early booking is recommended to ensure you secure your place! An event not to be missed, Dr Elaskary’s unique one-day programme of presentations and hands-on workshop focuses on the most recent and updated implant protocols, in particular VST which allows treatment of fresh extraction sites with immediate placement that reliably delivers optimised outcomes even in the absence of labial walls. Special emphasis will be on managing and optimizing regenerative outcomes in the aesthetic zone.

VSt One day Hands-on Workshop

Hosted by Trycare at the Royal Leonardo Hotel, Tower Bridge, London, on 10th May 2025, successful applicants will have the opportunity to learn everything they need to know in order to place immediate implants in the absence of labial bone using Vestibular Socket Therapy. With 6.5 hours CPD with Learning Outcome C the Course fee is just £795.00 including vat, with an Early Bird before 28th February of just £695.00 including vat.

Places have already been booked by international Delegates eager to take advantage of this unique opportunity to learn more about Dr Elaskary’s Vestibular Socket Therapy.

To book your place contact your local Trycare Representative, visit www.trycare.co.uk or email Denise Law on events@trycare.co.uk

advantages of VSt and the “Six day Protocol”

VST is an extensively scientifically validated surgical technique invented by Dr Elaskary and employed by many leading Implantologists worldwide. It enables treatment of a wide range of socket varieties suffering from complete loss of their labial plates. This unique technique allows immediate placement in severely defective sockets and offers a protocol to place immediate implants in sockets with active infection via Dr Elaskary’s “Six Day Protocol”. Thanks to minimised intra-operative surgical trauma with less complicated surgical intervention, it saves treatment time and minimizes the number of interventions. This innovative surgical approach reduces post-extraction socket collapse and the need for long-term provisional restoration, and provides predictable aesthetic outcomes.

dr abdelsalam elaskary

Dr Elaskary graduated in Dental Science at the University of Alexandria in 1986 and Implantology at the University of Frankfurt in 1993. In 1993 he also graduated from the Periodontics Department at Tufts University in Boston, Massachusetts, US.

Dr Elaskary subsequently obtained his Master in Dental Implantology at the Periodontics Department at the Health and Science Center of San Antonio, Texas, US, in 1994.

Founder of the Vestibular Socket Therapy treatment, he is the owner of the Elaskary & Associates clinic and educational institute located in Alexandria, Egypt.

Formerly Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of Florida, Jacksonville, US, from 2000 to 2005, Dr Elaskary is currently Visiting Lecturer at the Dental School of the Implantology Department at the University of New York, US.

He is President of the Arab Society of Oral Implantology (ASOI) in Cairo, Egypt, and has authored three books in the field of dental implantology and oral reconstruction, which have been translated into several international languages. The books are “Reconstructive Aesthetic Implant Surgery”, Iowa State Press, Black Well Science. June 2003; “Fundamentals of Esthetic Implant Dentistry”, Blackwell publishing, John Wiley. January 2008; and “Advances of Estethic Implant Dentistry”, John Wiley, March 2019. Dr Elaskary has also authored many articles in the field of implant dentistry.

For more information including details of the e arly Bird d iscount before 28th February 2025, contact your local trycare r epresentative, visit www.trycare.co.uk or email d enise l aw on events@trycare.co.uk n

Welcome to the dental implantology event of the year

For dentists, dental hygienists and therapists, dental nurses and practice managers who support the delivery of dental implant treatment, it is crucial to remain abreast of the latest products, technologies and techniques in the field. This requires constantly refreshing knowledge and learning new skills according to the latest evidence-based research. The result is more predictable treatment outcomes, greater patient happiness and increased job satisfaction for professionals.

In addition to the various skills required, dental implantology also often mandates a multidisciplinary approach. This means that collaboration between dental team members must be optimised, allowing for the sharing of expertise and abilities for the benefit of the patient.

To facilitate effective collaboration amongst the dental team, it has been shown that both strong leadership and shared goals are important. So too are building a team of likeminded professionals, and effectively allocating tasks according to each individual’s skillset.

Interprofessional education has also been shown to promote collaboration between healthcare professionals, improving communication skills and helping to establish coherent teams for better health outcomes. When it comes to dental implantology, this means enabling all members of the dental team to learn together ¬–from general dental practitioners to restorative specialists, dental nurses, dental hygienists/therapists, treatment coordinators and more.

For these reasons, the Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) hosts a biennial Team Congress which is designed specifically for the entire dental implant team to attend. As the UK’s independent network and membership organisation for implant dentistry, the ADI is constantly striving to connect professionals with expert education, mentoring and research to support them in every stage of their careers.

The Team Congress 2025 will be no different. Entitled “The Implant Aesthetic Kaleidoscope”, the event will demonstrate the diversity of the field and the many different factors that must be considered for clinical success and career development. Not only will programmes be designed specifically for each member of the dental implant team, but there will be a dynamic array of topics discussed by nationally and internationally renowned speakers.

Among them will be Dr Telmo Iceta, Specialist Orthodontist, who says: “Interdisciplinary work is crucial in today’s dentistry. As a Specialist Orthodontist, I will talk about the benefits of orthodontics in achieving better long-term results in complex implant cases as part of my session at the ADI Team Congress. I will also discuss the use of orthodontics as a way of facilitating implant work.

“I think that we often underestimate the potential of patients’ own teeth to facilitate the oral surgeon’s work. In many cases, orthodontics can play a role in not only improving alignment and occlusion, but also enhancing the hard and soft tissue situation. This is of particular interest when

treating patients who have already had some failed implant or dental work. Colleagues attending my session will be able to take away some new ideas on alternative treatment options for these patients.

“This will be my first time at the ADI Team Congress and I am looking forward.”

Hands-on workshops will also be available for clinicians to advance their practical skills under the supervision of leading lights in the field. In addition, dentists who are new to dental implants can learn from young and aspiring colleagues about how they are excelling in their careers. Finding the right mentor is critical when getting started in dental implantology ¬– the ADI is full of passionate and engaging clinicians who would be more than happy to help you take your first steps into the field.

And that’s not to mention the major exhibition or unique social programme,

which both afford opportunities to engage with the wider profession and network among like-minded professionals while having fun with friends. Further still, visitors will get a chance to enjoy all the vibrance and inclusivity that Brighton has to offer. Why not make a weekend of it with the family and enjoy some time on the famous pier, discovering the exotic and historical architecture or participating in some water sports?

The ADI Team Congress 2025 will absolutely be an event not to miss for anyone involved in dental implantology. Substantial early bird discounts are available until 1 December 2024, so register soon to take advantage of these savings and secure your place. ADI team Congress 2025 t he Implant Aesthetic Kaleidoscope

1-3 May, t he Brighton Centre

For more information, visit www.adi.org.uk

Become a member today n

Shades of White

3 Viscosities –infinite possibilities

The patented Smart Chromatic Technology in OMNICHROMA ensures infinite colour matching from A1 to D4 thanks to structural colour. Add to this 3 different viscosities for all preferences and areas of application. The OMNICHROMA family thus offers the user every conceivable option with a minimum of materials.

OMNICHROMA –is all you need for state-of-the-art filling therapy.

artificial colour pigments ”automatically” adapts to the tooth shade

Bis-GMA– formulation for better biocompatibility

sustainable stocking only order 1 shade & no expired special shades

AWARDS

Practice Manager of the Year: Amanda Reast THE DENTAL AWARDS 2024

2024’s Practice Manager of the Year, Amanda Reast, is no stranger to The Dental Awards. The practice she manages, The Dental Architect, scooped the prize for Practice of the Year in 2023. Here, Amanda compares both victories and explains what makes The Dental Architect so unique

What makes The Dental Architect so unique?

The Dental Architect is a practice brought from vison to a reality, via blueprint, rubble and squat, with a unique shared vison and values upheld by the team. Dr Martina Hodgson shared her vision and, as a team, we also established a set of core values. With that in mind, the team is empowered to provide a first-class patient experience, fully aware of the standards we aim to deliver to our patients. Everything we do as a team in practice is clear and transparent, and many hours have been given to support and train the team to achieve this.

Dr Hodgson’s vision was ‘to provide exceptional experiences and outcomes for our patients, built on a foundation of growth and innovation’.

Our team’s core values are: Excellence; Honesty; Fun; and Growth.

The combination is a reality for both patients and the team, and as soon as you walk through the doors at The Dental Architect, this becomes very apparent. It truly is a wonderful experience for both patients and the team. It really is unique, and I am proud to be a part of it.

How much value do you place on patient experience?

The Dental Architect’s patient journey is something that Dr Hodgson is so passionate about that she has trained her team to deliver a truly first-class experience. Every member of the team shares ideas and contributes to continual improvement as part of an ongoing process of excellence. We are proud of the customer service we provide to our patients and the feedback we receive; it means so much to the team to create such “WOW” experiences.

I am confident that every touchpoint and contact made or received has been delivered to the highest standard, we constantly review our service and ensure we monitor and enhance that experience at regular intervals.

A regulatory success for The Dental Architect during 2024 was a flawless comprehensive CQC inspection, highlighting to our patients the importance of the confidence we have in providing a safe and welcoming environment for their dental treatment.

Does the luxury experience help provide a better clinical service?

The practice is beautiful – this is true. However, the clinical experience is next-level due to our clinical team. The clinicians work extremely hard, honing their clinical expertise and regularly attending courses to upskill and learn new techniques. There is a diverse skill set of specialisms within the practice, and the team have been handpicked by the principal based on her vison. Mentorship is provided to the clinicians, as well as in-house courses and a unique training library, full of information and resources.

In essence, the luxury experience is part of the clinical experience, as the clinical team are exceptional in what they do and what they deliver.

The Dental Architect Academy has also recently launched, which will support clinical and non-clinical training.

What does your typical week entail?

My typical week starts with meetings at both sites alongside Practice Manager Mel Gordon and Dr Hodgson, where we address any challenges, actions or ideas. We ensure each site is running well by looking at KPIs and reviewing the practice as a whole.

Dr Hodgson and I will then take an overview of both practices, review operational, financial and marketing strategies, as well as action plans for forward planning. We look at training and anything business-related for the days, weeks and months ahead, along with various business meetings planned. Meetings will be held that same day with both the clinical and non-clinical teams as Monday is our main business meeting day.

The rest of the week, I will make time to speak to patients regarding their experiences, as well as completing staff one-to-ones or face-to-face training. I’ll address compliance, attending internal and external meetings on behalf of the business. I ensure both sites are operating as effectively as possible, managing HR, payroll and generally ensuring the team of 43 are supported.

Once a week, Mel and I have a one-to-one to address any challenges, tasks or plans for her or her team. Mel is absolutely amazing to work alongside.

Through The Dental Architect Academy, I enjoy working with practice owners, supporting the setup of their own dental practices through immersion days.

I also sit on the board for The Chartered Institute of Management North, so may have meetings or events with them during the working week

On top of that, I mentor students looking to achieve Chartered Management status, which means I will often jump on a call to support somebody with coursework or job applications, as well as providing general advice.

In addition to working full time, I am a mum to three boys. My weeks are therefore very busy, and no day is the same.

What challenges come with managing multiple sites?

There are no real challenges in all honesty, other than the regular things here and there which arise in any workplace. I think most managers would say the same in the sense that you become resilient and quick to rise to challenges as they arise. We have effective systems and processes in place that mean there are never any real challenges that can’t be dealt with effectively.

How did you feel to be named Practice Manager of the Year?

It was an honour to be shortlisted. To win was a phenomenal experience.

It was a privilege to be recognised, and I am fortunate to have built up a great network of managers over the years, who equally deserve recognition. It most certainly felt as if I was accepting the award on behalf of everyone that has been part of my journey so far.

I said from day one of becoming a manager that it is the team that manage the practice, and I lead the team. So, on winning, I indeed congratulated the team and feel that it is a team award. They make me extremely proud, and I could not do what I do without them.

How did that feeling compare with The Dental Architect winning the Practice of the Year Award in 2023?

In all honesty, the person to ask on how it felt to win Practice of the Year is Dr Hodgson. Nobody can take credit for the practice winning multiple awards within 12 months of opening its doors other than her. She built it from rubble to squat.

That said, when The Dental Architect won Practice of the Year in 2023, I experienced a feeling of admiration and there was a collective sense of pride to be part of the team. On winning the Practice Manager Award, I was, of course, proud. However, the pride was in the team and what we had achieved together, the foundations built and the trust they had in me as a leader.

It has fuelled my passion to support others to grow through The Academy. I look forward to what the next chapter brings during 2025… watch this space! 

Planmeca real user stories

Around the world, Dental professionals trust Planmeca’s cutting-edge dental equipment and software to optimise workflows and deliver exceptional patient care.

Our dental care units, imaging devices and software solutions are designed and manufactured with the latest technology and the best materials in Helsinki, Finland. But don’t just take our word for it! Why not visit the User Experiences page on our website for insights from Planmeca customers and user stories from clinicians who have experienced the benefits of our dental solutions for themselves.

New year, new starter

Back in October, Lily Head Dental Practice Sales was delighted to welcome Laura Dewes to their growing Sales Negotiator team.

Laura is dedicated to helping dental practice sales progress smoothly, achieving the best possible outcomes for all parties. With a rich history in negotiating and account management, she has been instrumental in the growth of many operators across the UK and brings a wealth of valuable experience to the team.

Here’s what Laura has to say about joining the team:

“It was the right time to challenge my professional development and build on what I love, working for a company that supports that.”

Our MD, Abi Greenhough, commented:

Fast and

powerful

Rapid and effective hygiene are paramount throughout a dental practise. Bossklein V-WIPE Classic wipes can disinfect surfaces in only 60 seconds.

V-WIPE Classic wipes are delivered in more eco-friendly, reusable tubs that utilise 35% recycled plastic (PCR). Refilling and reusing dispenser tubs can reduce plastic usage by 85% when compared to using a brand new tub.

Discover how our innovative products have transformed dental practices around the world and find out how they can make a difference in your own practice.

Contact our UK office for more information on 0800 5200 330. www.planmeca.com/user-experiences n

“Laura has been on my radar for some time as a great fit for our culture. It’s great to have her on board.” n

After years of collaboration with a local partner in the United Kingdom and Ireland, Kuraray Noritake Dental Inc., a global leader in dental technologies, is excited to expand its presence in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Through a trusted network of dealers, we are bringing our high-performance dental products, renowned for innovation and craftsmanship, directly to professionals in this region.

We offer a comprehensive range of dental solutions designed to enhance efficiency, longevity, and aesthetics, including:

• KATANA™ Zirconia – Offering faster sintering and superior finishing with multi-layered colour structure.

• PANAVIA™ Cements – Tailored for specific

Parkell’s Predicta Bioactive Bulk is a dualcure universal composite that is particularly suitable for posterior restorations. Its truly unlimited depth of cure enables filling any size cavity preparation, all the way up to the occlusal surface, without any need for time-consuming layering, knowing that the restoration will chemically cure within four minutes. This nanohybrid material is highly radiopaque and available in only two slightly translucent shades that mimic natural tooth in a surprising way. Predicta® Bioactive Bulk releases calcium and phosphate ions and releases and recharges fluoride ions to stimulate mineral apatite formation and remineralization at the material-tooth interface.

Scan the QR code to learn more about this indispensable material.

Effective against TB, Adenovirus, and Norovirus in just 60 seconds. V-WIPE Classic wipes use a 63% alcohol based formula to ensure a clean and safe environment for both patients and staff. The fresh lemon aroma leaves equipment and rooms fresh, clean, and ready for the next patient. Available now. For more information call 0800 132 373 or visit www.bossklein.com n

Mouth ulcers are one of the most common oral cavity conditions that patients suffer from, closely followed by soft tissue lesions caused by wearing fixed orthodontic appliances, and mouth sores caused by various forms of cancer treatment, or factors including food allergies and intolerances, auto-immune syndromes, hormonal problems, infectious diseases, genetic predispositions and diet-related disorders. They can be unbearably painful and can make it incredibly difficult to eat, talk, and swallow. Now, thanks to Curasept, help is on the horizon.n

curing needs, ensuring reliable placement in every case.

• CERABIEN™

Porcelains – Optimal results whether layering porcelain on metal frameworks or microlayering on high-translucency zirconia.

• CLEARFIL™ Adhesives – Meet a variety of clinical needs while delivering dependable performance.

• CLEARFIL MAJESTY™ Composites – A family of resin composites catering to different practitioner preferences and restorative requirements. n

contact info Parkell Europe AB Finvids väg 8 SE-194 27 Upplands Väsby, Sweden Tel. +46 708 593 481 infoeurope@parkell.com n

infoeurope@parkell.com

trycare - new omnichroma Flow Bulk In a sphere of its own!

Tokuyama are the only composite manufacturer to use patented spherical filler particles within their composite materials. Each variant utilising spherical particles of different diameters to maximise their optical and physical properties.

In addition Tokuyama’s spherical filler particles offer other significant advantages compared with the irregular shaped filler particles used by all other manufacturers. Quicker and easier to pack into undercuts, reducing the risk of voids; easier to sculpt and carve, producing enhanced morphology of the final restoration; and a much smoother surface finish which has a natural high sheen that requires minimal if any polishing.

Tokuyama’s development of spherical

Whether you are just starting to provide dental implant treatment, or are a seasoned professional, there is something on offer for everyone at the Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) Team Congress 2025.

This year’s theme, “The Implant Aesthetic Kaleidoscope”, represents the complexity and variety that is synonymous with the field of dental implantology.

The ADI Team Congress 2025 is an event not to be missed, with the speaker line-up of clinicians including Tidu Mankoo, Telmo Iceta, Eddie Scher, Joseph Kan, and Raquel Zita Gomes, and dental technicians including Bryan Matthews, Peter Pizzi, Alina Ceclan, Lorant Stumpf, Kevin Armstrong, and

filler particles has culminated in Omnichroma, the world’s only colourless universal composite which matches every tooth colour no matter what the shade. Omnichroma Flow Bulk is a low viscosity composite which can be placed in 3.5mm increments. Like the other Omnichroma materials it delivers unprecedented colour matching, high polishability and stain resistance. It also has low polymerization shrinkage compared with other bulk filled composite materials.

For more information call 01274 885544 or visit the website below.n

Hugo Patrao.

Speakers are set to discuss a wide range of topics to ensure that, no matter your level of expertise or clinical interests, there is something for everyone this May. Visit the website today to secure your place!

ADI Team Congress 2025

The Implant Aesthetic Kaleidoscope 1-3 May, The Brighton Centre For more information, visit the website to become a member today n

Predicta Bioactive Bulk – the perfect amalgam substitute

www.the-probe.co.uk

sweeter scents

Creating a pleasant atmosphere in your dental practice is essential to ensuring patients are relaxed throughout their visit. The Initial Essence fragrance range from Initial Medical is an exceptional way to improve the atmosphere in waiting and surgery rooms instantly.

Initial Essence delivers continuous, consistent, reliable air fragrance to any setting, including medium to large rooms. It uses oxygen fuel cell technology for the regular dispersal of a chosen scent. In addition, each fragrance option contains the neutralising agent, NeutraLox which effectively locks in and eliminates bad odours rather than simply masking them, creating a bright and fresh atmosphere in the room.

Clinicians can choose from a range of fragrances, which include:

• Adore - a sophisticated scent combining

fresh apple notes with amber and spices

• Elate - a designer fruity and floral fragrance with musk notes

• Spring - floral notes of ylang, lavandin, and geranium with hints of cologne and lemon. For practices looking to reduce malodours without implementing a new scent, choose the fragrance free Neutra-lox, which removes unpleasant smells for a welcoming and hygienicsmelling space.

Odour management can have a significant impact on your patients’ visits to your practice. Optimise comfort and a pleasant environment with Initial Essence, and contact the Initial Medical team to learn more. Tel: 0808 304 7411n

Meeting your specific needs

Much like the experienced team at Clark Dental, the MyRay Hyperion X9 is able to meet your specific needs.

The extraoral imaging system is modular and scalable, depending on the requirements of your practice. Whether you need baseline 2D and 3D capabilities, or require SuperHD functionality, Hyperion X9 is the solution for you. Plus, for smaller or growing dental practices, the system is the most compact and featurerich imaging system on the market, enabling you to focus on producing excellent images and providing outstanding patient care. Find out more today – contact the team at Clark Dental and visit the website.

For more information call Clark Dental on 01268 733 146, email info@clarkdental.co.uk or visit www.clarkdental.co.uk n

sharpen your imagery

Take your dental practice to the next level of excellent imaging with the CS 8200 3D Access, one of Carestream Dental’s worldclass CBCT scanner solutions.

The CS 8200 3D Access is versatile, packing a 4-in-1 solution that blends panoramic technology, CBCT imaging, 3D model scanning and optional cephalometric imaging. The device also includes CS MAR technology, providing a unique live comparison that automatically reduces metal artifacts, and therefore the risk of misinterpretation. For first time CBCT users, the device’s user-friendly interface simplifies the examination set-up with an intuitive layout on only one screen.

The CS 8200 3D Access is also versatile as a piece of equipment; it is ultra-compact and its smart design means it can comfortably fit into tight spaces. You won’t struggle finding

Quality in your restorations

For a successful restorative treatment, using a reliable and resistant composite can meet a case’s functional and aesthetic demands.

BRILLIANT Crios from COLTENE is a unique composite bloc perfect for permanent, indirect restorations using a CAD/CAM grinding process. Unlike other existing CAD/CAM blocs, it is not comprised of ceramic components, but still affords outstanding mechanical properties.

Besides its high flexural strength, BRILLIANT Crios also has superb elasticity for a shock-absorbing effect that reduces tension during masticatory load. This ensures the patient has a comfortable

space for this CBCT scanner.

For high-quality images from a sophisticated CBCT scanner, consider the CS 8200 3D Access to provide an excellent service to your patients.

For more information on the CS 8200 3D Access visit www.carestreamdental.com

For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook and Instagram @carestreamdental.uk n carestreamdental.com

bite and is especially suited for implantsupported crowns, as well as inlays, onlays and veneers. Two sizes and three translucencies with 15 shades offer a broad range for a daily use in the dental practice.

Using BRILLIANT Crios and the other restorative products from COLTENE can achieve agreeable outcomes for longlasting treatment success. Get started today. For more on COLTENE, visit www.coltene.com, email info.uk@coltene.com or call: 0800 254 5115.n

Encouraging patients to maintain an effective and consistent oral hygiene routine can be tricky. Finding the right hygiene products to recommend can improve compliance, and therefore cleaning results.

The Curaprox product range, from Curaden, is extensive. It offers a variety of innovative and reliable solutions for long-term success. To better understand what is available and what you can recommend, book a Practice Educational Meeting.

handle the items, from advanced implant toothbrushes like the CS 708 or antibacterial mouthwashes like Perio plus Forte.

sale support

For selling your dental practice, getting the best possible deal ensures greater financial stability. To help achieve this, Dental Elite can provide the invaluable support you need.

For more information contact the Dental Elite team on 01788 545900 https://dentalelite.co.uk/ n Products

A Curaden Development Manager will visit your practice, bringing a spread of the latest and greatest products. In these sessions, you and your colleagues can familiarise yourselves with the numerous benefits that using Curaprox products brings. You can ask questions, discuss clinical indications and

The brand-new SprintRay Ceramic Crown is truly a first of its kind. It is a hybrid nanoceramic that contains 51% nano ceramic material for unparalleled flexural strength and wear resistance.

This new class of resin has been shown to deliver an excellent margin fit, optimising the effectiveness and longevity of restorative treatment. As an inorganic material, it is radiopaque for easy visibility on scans, and is FDA-cleared as a Class II resin for definitive crowns, partial crowns and veneers.

The SprintRay Ceramic Crown completes the end-to-end solution for 3D printed restorations, changing the game for practitioners and their patients. Crowns can now be designed, 3D printed and

Further your knowledge of the Curaprox product range and transform the daily oral hygiene routine for your patients 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

curaden.co.uk

finished chairside in less than 45 minutes – with no compromise in accuracy, strength or aesthetics – and at a price you and your patients won’t believe.

The SprintRay Ceramic Crown is the 3D printed chairside solution for definitive crowns, completely redefining the professional workflow.

For more information, please visit: https://sprintray.com/en-uk/n

sprintray.com/en-uk/

With years of experience and a proven track record in sales success, the Dental Elite team are able to respond and solve the challenges common in a practice sale. From preparing building regulation certifications for potential buyers to guiding the sale to an optimal outcome and a smooth transaction, the professional experts have it covered.

Over 3,800 active buyers are registered on the Dental Elite database and are searching for practices across the UK –this maximises your audience, connecting you to a wide web of interested parties.

Once a suitable buyer has been found, the team will support you throughout the process, such as with negotiating the commercial details or chasing up the stakeholders.

Dental Elite streamlines the sale of a practice, bridging you with a buyer and ensuring an ideal final outcome. Get in touch today.

dentalelite.co.uk

Eschmann ¬– a leading expert in decontamination – will be demonstrating its broad range of equipment and services available to dental professionals at the upcoming BDIA Dental Showcase in London. Visit the team on stand H21 to discover why their range of decontamination equipment ¬– including autoclaves, washer disinfectors and more – remains the first choice for practices across the UK. Designed to be reliable, robust and highly efficient, the equipment is also backed by exceptional technical support and ongoing maintenance from a nationwide team of over 50 Eschmann-trained engineers. Drop by the stand to find out more about the Eschmann Care & Cover servicing package, which also includes unlimited breakdown cover, Annual Validation Certification, unlimited original manufacturer parts, enhanced CPD user training and more. Don’t miss Eschmann at BDIA Dental Showcase 2025 – 14-15 March, ExCeL London, stand H21. For more information on the highly effective and affordable range of infection control products from Eschmann, please visit www.eschmann.co.uk or call 01903 753322 n

sprintray introduces a first of its kind ceramic crown resin

Working with friendly teams is good for you!

Developing great working relationships with colleagues is a positive way to engage socially while also doing what you love. Rodericks Dental Partners creates positive, respectful working environments in which pleasant interactions with peers and colleagues can flourish.

With additional access to numerous mentoring and training opportunities across Rodericks Dental Partners’ large network, colleagues can build genuine lasting friendships with like-minded professionals. Each and every colleague is valued and supported by the Rodericks Dental Partners dedicated support team, ensuring that work arrangements are tailored to suit individual lifestyles. When all your colleagues have excellent support, it results in a more collaborative and friendly workplace for everyone. Discover what makes Rodericks Dental Partners such an excellent place to work today! To find out more about what it’s like to work with Rodericks Dental Partners and to discuss current vacancies, you can visit https://rodericksdentalpartners. co.uk/careers n

simply do more

The Axano Pure treatment centre, available from Clark Dental, allows you to simply do more. The system makes ease of use and integrated features the priority, enabling you to focus on what matters most, patient care.

The user-friendly Smart Touch display makes navigating the treatment centre’s features simple, and enables you to customise your system for an intuitive experience.

Further to this, therapy functions are integrated, making endodontic and dental implant workflows more seamless than ever. This means that these treatment types are optimised for more predictable results delivered quickly and effectively.

Plus, the Axano Pure makes it easier than ever to communicate with patients, and help them stay engaged in their care thanks to tools

Seeking a new position can come with a range of different benefits, including a better salary, career opportunities and skill development.

In order to reap the benefits, you should avoid choosing the first offer straight off the bat. Cast your net wide and see what roles are available to you. Dental Elite can help you streamline your options and find the most suitable position for you, no matter if you’re a dental nurse, dental hygienist/therapist, associate dentist or practice manager.

Dental Elite has decades worth of experience working within the dental sector, helping dental professionals find

Dr Kushbah Begum, Principal Dental Surgeon at Coach House Dental Practice & Laboratory, Newcastle upon Tyne, shared her experience with the Advanced Diploma course from the IAS Academy:

“I run a practice with an NHS contract, and was getting a lot of orthodontic cases through the door. I didn’t want to do a weekend course, and I wanted something that would set me up to be really professional in treating these patients.

“The Advanced Diploma totally changed my orthodontic game; I feel much more confident and I’m taking on cases I never would have done before. I learnt a lot from the tutors and found they were really approachable, answering all the weird and wonderful questions we had.

rethink your workflow

For many buyers, realising the dream of owning their own dental practice can be an exciting, but daunting process. Buyers don’t want to be in any doubt that they are in good hands. With a dental specialist finance broker who completely understands the market, and is familiar with dental specialist lenders, buyers can achieve the most favourable financial terms based on a realistic budget.

With DE Finance, buyers receive a fully personalised service to support them through the whole process. The team will help you with an instant indication of your upper borrowing limit, provide a bespoke analysis of your prospective purchase to assess affordability.

The team at Dental Elite work tirelessly to support you, with a tailored application

on top of your work

like a 22” Sivision monitor to display images, chairside.

To find out more about the Axano Pure treatment centre, please contact the team at Clark Dental and visit the website.

For more information call Clark Dental on 01268 733 146, email info@clarkdental.co.uk or visit www.clarkdental.co.uk n

the right role that ticks every box. To find out more about jobs in the dental sector, visit the website or get in touch with the team today. For more information contact Dental Elite. Visit www.dentalelite.co.uk, email info@dentalelite.co.uk or call: 01788 545 900 n

Curaden Academy continues to revolutionise oral health with iTOP – Individually Trained Oral Prophylaxis. These educational seminars are essential for enhancing your dental skills and knowledge, and preserving your patients’ oral health.

iTOP features a comprehensive approach that utilises the latest research and advanced biofilm management techniques, cementing its reputation as one of the leading educational programmes in the industry. There are four seminar levels. iTOP Introductory is the starting level and lasts one day; iTOP Advanced covers two days and includes practical sessions that will help with teaching patients how to use prophylactic tools; iTOP Recall is an annual refresher for professionals, allowing their certificate to be

for banks, specific to your needs, free CQC application support, full sales progression support until completion and much more – all with zero additional cost on 76% of transactions!

As Saleem Mulla says of his experience: “DE Finance got us the best market rate at very favourable terms. Thank you.” Contact the team today to take the plunge! For more information on Dental Elite visit dentalelite.co.uk, email info@dentalelite.co.uk or call 01788 545 900 n

“The course size was really good, it was just big enough to be interactive, and meant you could meet new clinicians.”

The IAS Advanced Diploma is a comprehensive orthodontic course that allows professionals to take on more complex cases. Contact the team today to find out more.

For more information on upcoming IAS Academy training courses, please visit www. iasortho.com or call 01932 336470 (Press 1) or visit www.money4dentists.com n

There are many factors that set Eschmann apart from other decontamination product and service providers in the UK. Among these is its long heritage of almost 200 years of innovation in medical supplies.

As a result of constant research and development, Eschmann offers a comprehensive portfolio of products designed for maximum patient safety, professional efficiency and durability. The range includes industry-leading autoclaves, washer disinfectors, ultrasonic cleaners, RO water system and more – all supported by expert advice, specialist engineers and exceptional customer service.

revalidated; iTOP Educator is a fourday seminar for dental practitioners who want to be certified iTOP Instructors.

With a focus on the effective Touch To Teach training, participants of iTOP seminars will master oral hygiene across a transformative and captivating educational journey. 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

The Care & Cover maintenance and service package affords further peace of mind, with unlimited breakdown cover, Annual Validation and Pressure Vessel Certification, unlimited Eschmann parts and labour, enhanced CPD user training and ongoing assistance from both a technical telephone support line and a team of 50+ Eschmann-trained engineers nationwide.

Why benzocaine?

It may be a number of hours before a patient can attend an emergency dental appointment. In this time, pain relief is essential to help patients manage their discomfort. Benzocaine is the ideal solution.

Benzocaine is a powerful topical anaesthetic which works to relieve pain rapidly. It temporarily blocks pain signals along the nerves, and numbs the problem area quickly.

Benzocaine is an active ingredient in Orajel, allowing it to be easily applied to the painful area, working at its full effect for 15-20 minutes, providing total numbness in less than two minutes – much faster than systemic pain killers. Plus, its effects can be felt for several hours following application, delivering continued pain relief.

To elevate your decontamination equipment and processes with the help of experts in the field, contact Eschmann.

For more information on leading Eschmann decontamination products, please visit www.eschmann.co.uk or call 01903 753322n

Orajel offers two strengths of benzocaine, meeting different patients’ needs. Containing 10% benzocaine is Orajel Dental Gel while Orajel Extra Strength features 20% benzocaine for patients in acute dental pain.

Patients can use Orajel up to four times a day, enabling them to manage their pain at home whilst they wait for an emergency appointment.

To find out more about Orajel, contact the team and visit the website today.

For more information, and to see the full range of Orajel products, please visit https://www.orajel.co.uk/n

Improving mouth cancer management

Jocelyn Harding is an award-winning Dental Hygienist and the President Elect of the Mouth Cancer Foundation. She will be joining other members of the Mouth Cancer Foundation team at BDIA Dental Showcase in March among the exhibition, while also presenting from the Oral Health Theatre on the topic. She says:

“I hope to help attendees better understand the challenges of mouth care for head and neck cancer patients before, during and after treatment. I would like colleagues to feel more supported with practical suggestions for managing long-term oral effects, while also discussing the importance of self-examination. It’s important that we all have a good understanding of a head and neck cancer patient’s journey if we are to help them.

“BDIA Dental Showcase provides a perfect

supported

opportunity to network, listen to interesting presentations and connect with sponsors – what is there not to like? It’s also ideal for keeping up with recommended CPD topics for all dental professionals. Oral cancer: early detection is a GDC recommended CPD topic. With head and neck cancer statistics increasing, all team members should keep up to date and feel better supported in this area of care.”

BDIA Dental Showcase 2025 14th-15th March, ExCeL London Register for your free ticket at: https://forms.reg.buzz/BDIA-Dental-Showcasen dentalshowcase.com

diagnosis for dental pain

It is essential to accurately and quickly diagnose the problem when a patient presents in pain. Where there is uncertainty about unidentified root canals or failed previous endodontic treatment, the experts and specialists at EndoCare can help.

We utilise state-of-the-art technologies and evidence-based techniques to deliver advanced endodontic solutions for a wide range of patients. Where appropriate, this includes CBCT imaging for confident diagnosis and treatment planning, ensuring your patients receive the highest standard of care.

Referrals are also simple for all clinicians to utilise ¬– just complete the secure form

SprintRay OnX Tough 2 is the only 3D printing resin MDR-cleared for fixed hybrid dentures, making it ideal for implant-retained prostheses in full arch rehabilitation cases.

The cutting-edge NanoFusion™ technology sets new standards for denture resin quality and durability. It exhibits significantly higher flexural strength, flexural modulus and impact strength than other denture resins on the market, for complete peace of mind.

The Class II 3D printing resin is also designed to mimic the natural dentition with its balance of translucency and opacity, in addition to optimal shade stability.

The result is a long-term provisional or final restoration delivered on the same day as surgery using guided implant placement protocols. Patients enjoy the enormous

Gingival diseases can lead to bad breath, loose teeth and bleeding gums. Don’t let these symptoms affect a patient’s quality of life – recommend daily interdental brushing with FLEXI, from TANDEX.

Available in 11 sizes for superb coverage, FLEXI brushes can reduce the risk of gingival diseases by removing the trapped, harmful bacteria among the interdental spaces. The brush can be easily shaped for maximum access, cleaning the teeth and massaging the gingivae to reduce irritation.

When combined with the chlorhexidine content of PREVENT Gel, from TANDEX, FLEXI brushes can reduce plaque and minimise the effects of gingival diseases. PREVENT Gel also contains 900ppm fluoride, strengthening the enamel and promoting a clean and protected

on the website and we will be in touch to arrange everything from there. Once the referred treatment is complete and your patient returns to you, we will provide any follow up advice and support as needed. Find out more by contacting EndoCare today.

For further information please call EndoCare on 020 7224 0999 Or visit www.endocare.co.ukn

endocare.co.uk

Must wash with mouthwash

A mouthwash has many benefits, from protecting the teeth to freshening the breath. The Curaprox Perio plus range, from Curaden, provides excellent results in improving oral health.

The trio of mouthwashes – Forte, Regenerate, Balance – all feature xylitol for a pleasant taste and are made from the unique Citrox® formula, a natural extract of bitter oranges mixed with polylysine amino acids.

All contain varying levels of chlorhexidine, with Perio plus Forte packing the biggest antibacterial punch with its 0.2% concentration. This makes it ideal for fighting plaque and reinforcing gingival health.

For post-treatment care, Perio plus Regenerate heals the tissue and combats xerostomia, whilst Perio plus Balance is ideal for orthodontic patients, reducing the risk of tooth decay with its dose of

Business bravery

Engage in an exciting training plan that can help you transform the success of your dental practice with Business and Mindset Mastery led by Pravesh Solanki, from the IAS Academy.

The one-day course sees clinicians combine personal and professional growth strategies, helping to build a work-life balance that will see individuals thrive. Dental professionals and their teams will deliberate on the goals set out for their practice, taking time to devise actionable plans to achieve them without reaching burnout.

Prav is an experienced practice and business owner, developing clinics and brands in the dental and healthcare sectors. His insights, developed over years in

sodium fluoride (230ppm). All are for short term use.

Whether it’s for protection or healing, there’s a Perio plus mouthwash for any at-risk patient. Achieve excellent hygiene results with Curaprox products 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.ukn curaden.co.uk

marketing, are passed on in active sessions that make the content engaging and informative.

To learn more about the Business and Mindset Mastery course from the IAS Academy, contact the team today.

For more information on upcoming IAS Academy training courses, please visit www.iasortho.com or call 01932 336470 (Press 1) n

convenience meets sustainability

advantage of shorter treatment times, fewer practice visits, increased convenience and the associated lowered costs. For clinicians, the speed of treatment, combined with superior outcomes, means increased efficiency and profitability – with absolutely no compromise in quality.

To see how you can redefine your 3D printing restorative workflow, contact the SprintRay team today.

For more information, please visit: https://sprintray.com/en-uk/n

oral cavity.

Simple yet reliably effective, using FLEXI brushes for daily interdental cleaning can improve a patient’s oral health and make gingival disease a thing of the past.

For more information on Tandex’s range of products, visit https://tandex.dk/

Our products are also available from DHB Oral Healthcare https://dhb.co.uk/ n

Choose sustainable and easily storable clinical waste containers with the Griff Pac from Initial Medical.

The Griff Pac is a green solution for your practice, made from 70% recycled plastic. Clinicians can choose from a range of colours to suit their needs, while following the HTM 07-01 best practice colour code, meaning they remain compliant whilst reducing their environmental impact.

Alongside reducing the demand for virgin plastics, Griff Pac containers can help you segregate large quantities of waste clearly and simply. Choose between 25L and 50L sizes depending on the amount of waste produced regularly in your practice.

Choose between 25L and 50L sizes depending on the amount of waste

produced regularly in your clinic, and keep up to 4x as many containers to hand thanks to their convenient flat pack design. The Griff Pac is also brilliantly lightweight, which can help reduce your disposal costs versus solid rigid containers. To learn more about sustainable clinical waste containers from Initial Medical contact the team today.

To find out more, get in touch at 0808 304 7411 or visit the website today www.initial.co.uk/medicaln

don’t let braces get your patients down

If your patients struggle to keep their braces clear of food debris, recommend the Waterpik® Water Flosser, an easy-to-use tool for exceptional oral health.

Backed extensively by years’ worth of clinical research, the Waterpik® Water Flosser is a great adjunct to your patients’ oral hygiene routines. It has been clinically proven to remove up to 99.9% of plaque, and is 3 times as effective as string floss for patients with braces.

Caring for teeth and gums is an incredibly important part of keeping dental braces clear of bacteria. With the Waterpik® Water Flosser, your patients can ensure they protect their oral cavity, during and long after their treatment. To find out more, get in touch today!

For more information on Waterpik® Water

Flosser products visit www.waterpik.co.uk. Waterpik® products are available from Amazon, Costco UK, Argos, Boots, Superdrug and Tesco online and in stores across the UK and Ireland. n

Managing landlords if you lease your premises

There can be additional obstacles to overcome during a practice sale

When specialist dental brokers like us write about selling your dental practice, it is easy to think we are simply referring to selling the business portion of a practice. In all transactions there is a property piece. It is rare that we sell just a patient list. In this article, I want to focus on how you can prepare for the sale or transfer of the business premises, in which a new owner is going to carry out the business of dentistry.

When buying a dental practice, buyers can purchase the freehold of the practice they are buying from the outgoing principal. They can lease the premises from the outgoing principal, or they can take on the existing lease if the premises are rented.

When third party landlords are a feature of a deal, they can add an additional level of complexity. If you are a principal operating from leasehold premises, then this is the advice we give to our clients to help them get the property piece of their transaction prepared for sale.

Identify who the landlord is and who the decision maker is within their group. Check to find out if there are multiple decision makers; the landlord could be an investment company representing multiple investors. Or, the landlord could be represented by an agent.

Determine if the lease on your dental practice is assignable. If it is, then it can be transferred to a new owner easily.

If it is not an assignable, then the lease must be surrendered and the process started afresh. This makes the process of transferring it to a new owner more onerous and therefore more expensive. If you have a non-assignable lease, it can limit your options, delaying the transaction. In extreme circumstances, it could force the new owner to relocate the practice.

If you hold a sub lease, you have to identify the leaseholder and then the landlord.

The third party landlord will let you know who their appointed solicitors are. You will need this information to share with all parties once you get into the sale process. In my experience, third party landlords are not vested in an efficient transaction between a willing buyer and a willing seller. Their representatives can become an obstruction to progress. Our team works hard to ensure they do not become a distraction or even an obstacle to a transaction.

There can be hidden problems to resolve. I recently had a transaction where the landlord had passed away and probate had not been granted on their estate. You may find that the

landlord actually wants to sell the premises. Early notice of things like this is always preferred.

Landlords have used the general activity around a transaction as an opportunity to increase rents and leverage more favourable terms in the lease as part of a negotiating position. There are a number of clauses to consider in a lease. For instance, the schedule of condition. This details the condition in which the leaseholder must leave the premises. As the leaseholder, you want to leave the building in the same condition as when you arrived. Landlords would rather have you on the hook for everything that has happened to the building. At least with a schedule of condition, everyone knows where they stand. Without one everything can be up for negotiation and agreement.

Landlords also must accept the incoming buyer as their new leaseholder. First-time buyers are often required to make personal guaranbuyers,nd it is important your broker discusses this with prospective buyers so they understand what is required. Personal guarantees can be a barrier for some first-time buyers.

Third party landlords usually want to pass on their legal costs

associated with agreeing a new lease and taking on board a new leaseholder. The costs can be split between the parties, although landlords will often stipulate that they expect the vendor to pay their legal costs because it is them that’s asked to move the lease on.

I find that landlords’ solicitors do not expedite new leases. You must identify and engage with them early in the process and develop a good working relationship with them.

What does good look like?

When it comes to agreeing a new lease, there are certain things the buyer and their lenders will want to see:

• A 15-year lease with security of tenure.

• A rent review at a maximum of every three and a half years.

• A strong relationship with the landlord.

next

steps

To achieve a good outcome for all parties then, you must appoint a property solicitor early on. I can advise on the solicitors on our panel, which have a property law section to help with this.

Locate and understand your own lease agreement. Identify with your

solicitor any areas which a reasonable buyer might have an issue with.

Create a new, assignable, 15-year lease for the new buyer. It will really help the process if you can get this to your prospective purchaser early in the process.

Talk to your landlord and sell the benefits of the new tenant.

Review the schedule of condition in your lease. Complete any repairs in line with the schedule. This may include work to the roof, pointing, guttering, roof joists, decorating, flooring and window frames. Check for Japanese knotweed around the premises. A Japanese knotweed infestation of any kind will kill a deal stone dead.

My advice is to do what a reasonable landlord would expect as well as what a reasonable buyer would expect.

If you have any concerns about the terms of your lease, please talk to me. n

about the author

Tom Orchard, Head of Practice sales at Lily

Head Dental Practice sales.

How to be CQC inspection ready

fran sorodoc offers practical advice to turn inspection preparation into an opportunity to strengthen your practice

Preparing for a Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspection is a recognised priority for dental practices, ensuring compliance and high-quality patient care. Effective preparation is not about last-minute efforts but about maintaining a strong compliance framework throughout the year. This involves having a structured system with tailored policies, procedures, audits and risk assessments that meet the specific needs of the practice.

A well-led compliance framework is essential to achieving these goals. It is not unusual for audits and risk assessments to be either misunderstood or completed incorrectly due to a lack of guidance or training. This can result in a “tick-box” approach, where tasks are marked as complete without fully understanding or verifying their accuracy. Ensuring that those responsible for compliance tasks are competent and well-informed is critical to building a framework that delivers meaningful results and avoids assumptions about existing practices.

compliance readiness

Looking at all this in greater detail, one of the most common areas of non-compliance is the failure to follow through on audits and risk assessments. Completing them is not enough; there must be a clear evidence trail showing that identified actions have been addressed. This not only demonstrates compliance but also shows a commitment to continuous improvement.

The servicing and maintenance of equipment is another key focus. All equipment must be inspected and maintained according to manufacturer guidance, which takes precedence over other recommendations. Regular checks are essential for safety and help prevent unexpected breakdowns, ensuring the smooth running of the practice while meeting CQC requirements for patient and staff safety.

Staff files are another critical element of compliance. These should include but are not limited to CVs, references, proof of Hepatitis B immunity for clinical staff and accurate indemnity cover. It is important to go beyond simply filing these documents. Their contents must be verified to ensure compliance. For example, dentists performing advanced procedures like sinus lifts must have indemnity policies that specifically cover those treatments. Training and competency are equally important. Beyond mandatory CPD, in-house training plays a key role in ensuring staff are confident and capable in their roles. Regular team meetings, whether held monthly or in shorter, more frequent sessions, are a great way to discuss risks, address concerns and keep everyone aligned with the practice’s goals. Documenting these discussions is essential as it provides a clear record of continuous learning and improvement.

embedding policies in daily practice

Indeed, inspectors will look for evidence that policies and procedures are not just created

but are consistently followed by the team. So, they should be actively implemented and integrated into daily practice to support the delivery of the best possible care. Once again, documentation is essential to demonstrate adherence to protocols and provide clarity in case of any concerns.

Complaints are a good example of how processes can be turned into opportunities for improvement. While often perceived as negative, complaints should be viewed as valuable learning opportunities. Practices should discuss them as a team, identify root causes, and take steps to prevent similar issues in the future. Regular team discussions not only provide clarity but also foster collaboration, making compliance a shared responsibility, while evidence of these actions is a strong positive during inspections.

Regardless of the size or focus of the practice, external support can offer reassurance and tailored guidance across all areas of compliance. Compliance experts can create action plans to strengthen processes and address specific needs. Additionally, tools like iComply simplify the management of policies, procedures, and audits, ensuring that key compliance tasks are consistently addressed and kept up to date.

inspections as opportunities

Rather than viewing CQC inspections as a burden, practices can see them as a chance to refine their operations and enhance care. Inspectors often provide constructive guidance, highlighting areas for improvement while supporting practices in meeting standards. With an open and positive mindset, inspections can become an opportunity for growth rather than a source of stress. n

fran’s top tip: ‘stay open’ Remaining open to change and feedback is essential. Practices should be willing to adapt and learn from mistakes. While nobody gets everything right all the time, each experience offers a valuable opportunity for growth and improvement.

Got a question? email it to compliance.hotseat@agiliosoftware.com for a chance to have it answered in The compliance Hotseat – we might even reach out to explore it with you directly! additionally, if you would like more information about icomply, please visit agiliosoftware.com/icomply

about the author fran sorodoc is agilio’s Head of Professional services.

Love is protection

Whether it’s a trip to Paris or a panicked dash to the local garage for a bunch of flowers, Valentine’s Day is the one day of the year when it’s traditional to show the one you love how important they are to you.

There is another, far less romantic but significantly more important, way of showing someone that you care, and that is ensuring that they are protected in the event of serious illness or, even though it’s not something you would expect to read in a ‘Valentine’s Day’ article, your death.

Dentists’ earnings are often considerable and afford a particular kind of lifestyle. Even if you think that you don’t earn a substantial amount, it’s important to stop and think about what impact a loss of your monthly income would have on your loved ones. Even if you have a spouse or partner who also earns a substantial amount, expenditure tends to expand in line with income, so the loss of one is likely to prove a significant problem.

Many people protect their mortgages from the eventuality of their death or the diagnosis of a critical illness, but then forget that there is also a lifestyle on top of the mortgage that should be protected, particularly if you have children. Will there still be enough income to fund the weekly supermarket shop? How about household bills? Those never-ending school clubs and trips will also need funding.

The payment of monthly income into our bank accounts is something that we may often take for granted, without considering the likelihood or impact of it ever stopping. If the daily news tells us anything, it’s that the unexpected can and does happen regularly. No one is invulnerable.

Dentists who still have NHS income will have some form of protection – the NHS provides sick pay for dentists between weeks four and 26 of any illness, and offers a lump sum deathin-service benefit that is usually twice the deceased’s pensionable income, as well as a dependant’s pension in the event of death.

The significant increase in private dentistry in recent years has led to those benefits being reduced for many dentists as their NHS income has declined. Most of the dentists that I have spoken to have replaced the NHS pension with a private pension when they started private dentistry, but not the life insurance that they had lost or altered any income protection held to take account of the loss of their NHS sick pay.

Taking out some form of life insurance and critical illness cover (which pays out on the diagnosis of a serious illness, such as cancer or a heart attack) can take away some financial pressure at an already turbulent time. There are different types of policy that offer protection –some offer decreasing cover (usually to protect a decreasing debt, like a mortgage), others offer increasing cover to help battle against inflation.

When thinking about protection, many people tend to think about lump sums. In some cases, though, a more manageable solution can be a policy that provides an income every month, as this is something that people are used to dealing with, and it helps them to budget more effectively going forward. There are advantages and disadvantages to each type of cover, however, and it is important to get advice from a professional to ascertain both the correct type and amount of cover for your circumstances.

If you’re a practice principal, protecting your loved ones should extend to any business partners and your staff. Consider the implications of you no longer being around – would it impact the income coming into the practice and, therefore, the ability to pay the staff and bills?

If you own a practice with another dentist, ask yourself:

• How would your family get the full value of your share of the practice in the event of your death?

• Does your business partner have the funds to pay your family and to ensure the continued smooth running of the practice in the event of your death?

It’s important to remember that when you become a fully-fledged dentist, you automatically become a businessperson too, whether you like it or not, and so there are wider financial planning implications to your role. The first building block of financial planning is to protect what you already have (your income, your family and your business) before putting further building blocks in place to plan for the future.

Without strong foundations protecting the people and things that are most important to you, both yours and their world could come crashing down in an instant.

This Valentine’s Day, alongside the flowers, prioritise protecting your loved ones’ futures. It’s far more meaningful. n

speak to a specialist

Review your protection with a dental specialist financial adviser at Wesleyan Financial Services by visiting wesleyan. co.uk/dentists or calling 0808 149 9416.

Please note: Charges may apply. You will not be charged until you have agreed to the services you require and the associated costs. Learn more about our charges at wesleyan.co.uk/charges

about the author

simon cosgrove is a Dental Regional Manager at Wesleyan financial services, guiding a team of Dental specialist financial advisers to support dentists, their families, and their practices with financial planning to secure their financial future.

Selling to individuals

This month as part of his Q&A series, Martyn bradshaw, Director of PFM Dental, answers questions on selling to an individual private buyer rather than a Corporate

firstly, are there still private buyers for dental practices?

Yes, 100%! At the moment we are actually seeing more individuals (associates becoming principals) purchasing dental practices than Corporates. Their offers are strong, and finance is readily available for practice purchases. The market has been very good, certainly for the latter half of 2024 and following into this year.

What are the benefits of selling to an individual?

A number of our clients prefer handing over their dental practice to a buyer who will be working in the practice. However, there are a number of other benefits for selling to this type of buyer:

• With a private buyer, you would generally expect to receive 100% of the sale amount upfront, with no money held back, future targets or tie ins.

• If the practice is underperforming or is short of a dentist, then the buyer will be able to come in and undertake this work. With a Corporate, they often require the practice to have all the associates in place. This has become a bigger problem for some practices over the last few years. So, this type of buyer – individual dental professionals – can remove some unnecessary stress from the seller. We have also seen principals wanting to sell but feeling that they need to recruit an empty position before they can sell – this is not the case when we have this type of buyer.

• The principal may wish to leave upon selling. As such, the buyer can replace the principal from day one. This is not something that would generally happen with a Corporate buyer, as they would generally need to tie in for 3-4 years.

so, an individual can raise the necessary finance?

There are a large number of banks that have specialist healthcare divisions, and the banks

are very supportive of dentists purchasing dental practices. We tend to find an individual borrowing up to £1.5m is generally a pretty comfortable lend, although we have arranged higher levels of finance for buyers. Whilst a 5-10% deposit is typical for most buyers, there are occasions that we have been able to put 100% finance in place. Obviously, the more deposit or financial security that the buyer has, the better. We would always review the financial position of the buyer when receiving offers and discussing the offers with clients.

How do you find the right buyer/right price?

This is where a good agent comes in. Most agents will have a database of dentists looking for practices and know who wishes to buy in which area. There are thousands of dentists looking to purchase a dental practice. From their point of view, they will likely be an associate, so not openly telling everyone that they are looking to buy. Thus, an agent is an integral part of the process in having vendors looking to sell as well as buyers looking to purchase in the same area. Practices in high demand areas are still getting multiple viewings and offers, so the vendor can pick their preferred buyer and offers.

Do associates still buy their practice of employment?

Less often than you may think. This is often a conversation that we would have with the client at the outset, and the client needs to weigh up the benefit of discussing the decision to sell with the associate against the worry over letting the cat out of the bag – if the associate isn’t interested in purchasing the practice, are they then going to worry and consider moving to another practice?

We actually deal with a number of associate sales in that we will undertake all of the preparation of information, negotiations, and progress this

to completion as we would if it were an open market sale. This typically allows the vendor and associate to have a normal day-to-day relationship whilst we handhold the buyer and seller throughout the sale. n

i f you are considering selling your dental practice then please contact Martyn b radshaw.

PfM Dental offers a comprehensive range of professional services exclusively for dentists. since 1990 we have been trusted advisers to the dental profession with a hard won reputation for sound, ethical and independent advice. Our services incorporate 4 key departments: practice sales and valuations, independent financial advice, dental accountancy and dental legal services.

https://pfmdental.co.uk/

about the author

Martyn bradshaw is a Director of PfM Dental and heads up the dental practice sales agency.

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Checking out the gains

The Autumn Budget landed with a quieter bang than some anticipated, with many businesses expecting the new government to introduce aggressive changes and sterling shocks. Whilst changes were made, many weren’t too dramatic. As the financial world adjusts following the October announcement, dental practice owners need to be financially prepared for the coming changes, big and small.

One notable change to be better informed about is the increase in Capital Gains Tax (CGT). This affects the income from a sale. There has been some outcry: farmers, such as those who have sold land for public transport connections, will now receive less after the change to CGT. For dental practice owners about to sell or looking to sell in the next few years, it is essential to be familiar with the new rules to maximise the profits from a sale.

CGT change explained CGT is a tax placed on the profits of a sale for something that has increased in value since being originally bought. The gain is what is taxed, rather than the full amount of money received. For instance, if you bought a practice for £500,000 and sold it years later for £2 million, the £1,500,000 increase is what is taxed. The change affects individuals, trustees and personal representatives who pay Capital Gains Tax.

Whilst the increase in CGT looks modest at 4%, it can make a big impact in net sale proceeds. For higher or additional rate taxpayers – those over the £50,270 threshold – the CGT change has been enacted from 30 October 2024. This means individuals after allowances and reliefs individuals will pay:

• 24% on gains from residential property

• 28% on gains from carried interest

• 24% on gains from other chargeable assets

The previous rate was 20% on gains made from other chargeable assets e.g. dental practices up to 29 October 2024.

In contrast, for basic rate taxpayers in the £12,751 to £50,270 income bracket, the rate paid depends on the size of the gain, the income and whether the gain is from assets

or residential property. Trustees and personal representatives have different rates too, with both paying 24% on chargeable assets, up from the previous 20%.

Those affected by CGT for the 2024-2025 tax year must identify any gains made before and after 30 October so that the correct rate of pay can be determined when filing a tax return. For contracts entered into before 30 October 2024 but completed after that date, there are special provisions for the main rate changes. For contracts eligible for relief, the Business Asset Disposal Relief (BADR) rates change on 6 April to 14% whilst Investors’ Relief allowances dropped to £1 million from £10 million on 30 October.

Effects of the change

For those looking to sell their dental practice, the 4% increase in CGT might be a concern. The difference between 20% and 24% means that, for example, an extra £40,000 will be paid on top of the previous amount for every £1 million of value for the dental practice. This cuts into the profits from selling.

A necessary evil?

The changing tax rate is estimated to impact 264,000 individuals in the 20252026 tax year, with 45–74-year-olds comprising 65% of this demographic. The government hopes that this package of changes will raise revenue

Individual insurance – tracking the trend

Today, there are a variety of reasons to seek out insurance. A dental practice would be protected from weather damage; new equipment can be assured of its quality.

However, it’s important to protect one of the most essential parts of dentistry – the clinician.

There has been a wider trend of an increasing number of people getting individual insurance. Amongst the options that are out there, dental professionals are bound to find an appropriate policy, and with a myriad of benefits it’s easy to see why demand has been so dramatic.

Understanding the boom

A report published in early 2024 by the Association of British Insurers (ABI) found that individual income protection policies hit a record 247,000 sales in the previous year, a 16% rise on 2022. Standalone critical illness policies reached 75,700 sales, which quadruples the figure from 10 years prior. When it comes to putting these in action, individuals can expect high claim acceptance rates – which has consistently surpassed 98% – and helpful pay-outs. The average claim

paid in 2023 was £17,053, a 9% rise on the average of £15,743 in 2022. This is especially beneficial considering the rate of price rises that we have been subject to, meaning clinicians in need of support are not left in the lurch.

In fact, the cost of living crisis is one of the main drivers for the increase in people seeking such policies. Dental professionals should consider whether they could maintain their lifestyle if illness meant they could not work for a prolonged period. For many, the answer will simply be no, and this reflects the need for an exceptional form of income protection.

Disputing the excuses

There are a number of reasons that a clinician may not want income protection. Firstly, the cost may not feel justified, especially if expenses are already inflated in the current market. However, clinicians must understand that if this is the case now, what would the situation look like in six months’ time if they were to unexpectedly become ill, without cover in place?

Others could prefer life insurance, as seen in the Financial Lives 2022 report published by the Financial Conduct Authority. In that year, 29% of people

while maintaining the internationally competitive UK tax system. The rise in CGT is expected to generate vast amounts to the Exchequer; for the 20252026 tax year, the rise is set to add £1.44 billion, a considerable increase.

Here to help

With the new government and shifting financial measures, it is essential that practice owners looking to sell are supported by a team of experts. Dental Elite has been completing practice health checks since its inception, offering free valuation reports that include an in-depth analysis on how to enhance dental practice value. By providing commentary on potential areas for improvement and assisting in generating reliable marketing ideas and techniques, selling a practice is easy with Dental Elite.

Selling a dental practice is a complex prospect, with many factors to consider. The changes in CGT were inevitable and can be costly, but with the right support dental practice owners can push their practice to reach its highest potential for a superior profit margin.

For more information on Dental Elite visit www.dentalelite.co.uk, email info@dentalelite.co.uk or call 01788 545 900 

About the author Luke Moore is one of the Founders and Directors of Dental Elite.

had a life insurance policy, with just 13% having critical illness cover, and only 6.1% opted for income protection insurance. Dental professionals should know that these cover different things, and should analyse the potential benefits to choose the appropriate cover for them.

Overall, the main reason for reluctance could simply be a lack of knowledge. Dental professionals could consult money4dentists and find an individual insurance solution that suited their needs and investment preferences. With a variety of policies available to dental professionals, the independent financial advisers can use their years of experience in finding solutions that protect your income should you face ill-health or similarly unfortunate circumstances. Income protection is an ever-growing field, and is exceptionally important for dental professionals who may struggle to keep their living standards in the event of serious illness or injury. Policies should only be chosen with adequate knowledge of the solutions available, and your own financial circumstances.

For more information, please call 0845 345 5060 or 0754DENTIST.

Email info@money4dentists.com or visit www.money4dentists.com

We’re a specialist dental practice sales agency, so whether you are looking to sell your dental practice on the open market, selling to your associate or intrigued with Corporate interest, we’ve helped thousands of dentists like you.

You cannot be in better hands with our expert valuers, a single point of contact throughout the sale and in-house legal team, allowing us to

We work with dentists all over the UK

Our scale and reach means we’re here to help wherever you’re based

Practice sales over the past 12 months 50+

Current dental accountancy clients 1200+

Practice finance raised in the last year £15m+

Expert Valuations

Accurate valuations for associate & principal led models with advice on enhancing the practice value.

advise you from start to finish. Supportive Throughout

We liaise with solicitors, buyers, and CQC to ensure everything is in place to minimise stress and give a smooth sale.

1000s of buyers

Get access to 1000s of pre vetted purchasers, being individuals, small groups and all of the major corporates.

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