The distinctive roles within a dental team need to be overlooked if dentistry’s workforce is to successfully meet the oral health needs of a future population. That was the message from the new chief dental officer (CDO) for England, Sara Hurley, when she addressed delegates at the British Association of Dental Therapists (BADT) national conference in Birmingham.
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Researchers in Italy say that the victims of Pompeii had perfect teeth right up to the moment when they were covered in and petrified by volcanic ash by Vesuvius in 79AD. Scientists speculate that the Pompeians’ teeth were perfected by their healthy diets (which consisted of a lot of fruits and vegetables) and the high levels of fluorine that exist around the volcano.
A recent report reveals that children’s tooth decay is a postcard lottery, dental therapists are calling for a health summit to address the crisis. Fiona Sandom, president of the British Association of Dental Therapists (BADT) said ‘we now need some joined-up thinking to address the associated health issues – including tooth decay – for which our children and the NHS are paying a heavy price.’
NHS England’s Guides for Commissioning Dental Specialities relate to the commissioning of NHS dental care in England. Designed primarily for NHS England commissioners; the Guides are intended to address the need for greater national level standardisation in NHS England’s commissioning of dental care as well as providing clarity and consistency around the dental services the NHS provides.
Read more: Guides for Commissioning Dental Specialities published
A Dental Protection survey of 497 members found that 97% experience challenging interactions with patients – half of those encountering it monthly and one in three on a weekly basis. Fifty-six per cent of respondents had experienced aggressive demands for treatment, 48% had received verbal abuse, and a further 39% experienced violent or aggressive behaviour.
Read more: Dentists report ‘aggressive demands’ for treatment
The UK Committee of Postgraduate Dental Deans and Directors (COPDEND) has confirmed that that every eligible UK graduate has secured a dental foundation training (DFT) place for the second year running. The BDA’s Judith Husband described the result as ‘great news’. She said: “We were determined that last year would not be remembered as a one-off”.
Read more: All dental graduates gain foundation training places