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.

No comments

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”.

No comments

Read more: All dental graduates gain foundation training places

A study led by Dr Bing Hu at Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, and involving other researchers from China and Switzerland, suggests for the first time that the use of local anaesthetic may affect tooth cell growth and the development of children’s teeth. Dr Bing Hu said: “Our study has shown for the first time the evidence that local anaesthetic may affect the development of children’s teeth in cellular and molecular levels.”

No comments

Read more: Local may affect children’s teeth development

Following a review of evidence and consultation the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has upheld its advice that prophylactic antibiotics are not necessary before treating patients with infective endocarditis. The findings of the review supporting the status quo established in 2008, when NICE first changed its recommendation on the use of antibiotic prophylaxis.

No comments

Read more: NICE guidance on prophylactic antibiotics is unchanged

Children in special support schools have slightly lower levels of tooth decay than children in mainstream schools but are more likely to have their teeth extracted, according to a new survey published today by Public Health England (PHE). Dr Sandra White, Dental Director at PHE said: “Children in special support schools are particularly vulnerable so they require an additional package of support to prevent and treat tooth decay.”

No comments

Read more: Children in special schools are more likely to have teeth removed