The Care Quality Commission (CQC) began operating on the 1^st April 2009 and was created to regulate and inspect health and social care services. Since its inception a number of additional services have come under its umbrella, including Primary Dental Care Services as of 1^st April 2011.

In recent months the CQC has come under fire from the Medical Profession, with reports such as:

Delegates at the British Medical Association (BMA) conference in June 2015 voting in favour of a motion stating the current CQC regime was "unfit for purpose". After the conference GPC chairman Dr Chaand Nagpaul said it was ‘clear that the CQC has lost the confidence of the profession’ and that it needs to ‘urgently address the fundamental problems within its inspections regime’.

This was shortly followed by the Royal College of GPs (RCGP) calling for an immediate suspension on the process of routine inspections. Research by the RCGP found a GP could gain an additional 120 hours a year in practice, if the Government slashed the administration burden of the CQC inspections.

The British Dental Association (BDA) has been relatively quiet about the CQC inspection regime. In October 2015 the BDA posted on its website that it welcomed the report from the CQC that Dental Practices were ‘low risk’ to patient safety.

However, the BDA’s silence on the matter does not reflect the feeling amongst the dental community generally. On forums such as GDPUK.com, the old CQC inspection regime is viewed as over cumbersome and bureaucratic, time consuming, expensive and inflexible.

In addition to the lack of confidence in the CQC inspection regime, is the dental community’s frustration and mistrust of their regulating body, the General Dental Council (GDC). This year alone we have seen the Professional Conduct Committee make some damning criticisms of those who investigate fitness to practice on behalf of the GDC. The Professional Standards Authority reported that the GDC was the worst regulatory body, with only two of the ten ‘Standards of Good Regulation’ being met. Finally the BDA asked ‘Will the GDC ever learn?’ in their article on the 24^th June 2015 in response to the Professional Conduct Committee’s comments and MPs querying the GDCs hike in the Annual Retention Fee.

However, unlike the GDC, the CQC has recognised its failures and has accepted that the old inspection regime was not fit for purpose. As such, from 1^st April 2015 the CQC has implemented a new format for inspections. Are we now entering a new era for the CQC inspection process?

Life before CQC

Prior to the CQC taking over the regulation of Primary Care Dental Services, NHS Dental Practices would be assessed by Dental Reference Officers (DRO). This often involved the DROs observing a dentist at work. The advantage of this system was that as DROs were qualified dentists, they had a good understanding of the required standards to be met in terms of treatment.

In addition to the above, all Dental Practices were governed by the GDC and were expected to meet the standards set by them. There was no on-site inspection process by the GDC; dentists, as professionals, were left to ensure they maintained those standards and the majority did in order to maintain their business and reputation.

There was no obvious need for overhauling the system. There was no public outcry regarding the quality of dental practices, and no high profile cases of errant dental practices. However, as with many areas of life, the Government took the view that this additional layer of regulation would benefit the public, in principle creating a more effective and standardised regulation of Primary Care Dental Services. 

CQC - The Beginning

From 1^St April 2011 the CQC was tasked with the regulation of Primary Care Dental Services.

The first hurdle of the old regime was for Providers of Primary Care Dental Services to register with the CQC.  Each Provider had to show from the outset in the application form that it was meeting the ‘essential standards’. The application form ran to 42 pages, setting out each Regulation and asking the Practice to state whether or not they were compliant and, if they were not, how they would become compliant. Guidance was provided on how to meet the essential standards, which comprised 174 pages. On top of the registration form each Provider had to have a ‘Statement of Purpose’. Needless to say the registration process alone was both complex and time consuming.

After the registration process, nearly all Providers underwent an inspection. This involved further preparation and time to ensure the ‘essential standards’ were being met. The plan was that follow up inspections would then take place every two years thereafter to ensure continued compliance. However, the CQC grossly underestimated its workload and it took up to April 2015 just to carry out the initial inspections and even then the task was still incomplete!

The concern with this inspection regime was that it was a ‘tick box’ exercise, undertaken by non-professionals. Whilst on the face of it a few underperforming practices may have improved, questions were raised as to whether it improved the overall quality of care; for example did it prevent injury and were patients safer? The general feeling amongst dentists is that no, overall it did not and instead placed huge administrative burdens on them, that took them away from the practice of dentistry.

Whether a mark of successful regulation or not, the GDC and NHS England have reported an increase in the number of complaints about dental professionals. Given that the aim of the CQC inspection process was to focus on a patient’s experiences and ensure they were being treated fairly, it suggests a change was indeed needed.

A New Era?

In its report, a fresh start for the regulation of primary care dental services, the CQC acknowledges that when it started regulating dentists it did not get the model right. The report confirmed that the CQC had inspected nearly all of the 10,102 dental practices registered. One in eight was not meeting the regulations compared with one in five in adult social care. Furthermore, in the majority of cases where inspectors re-visited practices, the concerns raised had been addressed. The CQC therefore identified that the dental profession presented a lower risk to patient safety compared with other areas inspected by the CQC.

Following a review of the inspection regime, on 1^st April 2015 two Regulations came into force which created new ‘fundamental standards’. These fundamental standards are applicable to all regulated activity; not just Primary Care Dental Services. You can find guidance on the new standards at this link.

As a result of the new standards and the review of the existing inspection process, on 5^th April 2015 the CQC implemented a new system for regulating Primary Care Dental Services.

The key changes are:

·         The removal of the rating system for Primary Care Dental Services;

·         The introduction of five questions about the service. Are they safe? Effective? Caring? Responsive to people’s needs? Well-led? These will be used to ensure the fundamental standards are being met;

·         In order to answer these five questions, inspectors will use ‘key lines of enquiry’ (KLOE) and prompts. These KLOE and prompts, along with examples of how they can be met, can be found in the Provider Handbook;

·         As before, there are two types of inspection, but these have been re-labelled ‘Comprehensive’ and ‘Focused’ inspections. A Comprehensive inspection will be carried out at 10% of registered Providers in 2015/2016 and will usually look at the Practice as a whole. A Focused inspection will either be a follow up or be responding to a particular concern or issue;

·         Clinicians will be involved where necessary with the inspection process.

In addition to the Provider Handbook, you can download our CQC Inspection Guidance here, which gives examples of the documents that may help you meet the five questions and fundamental standards.

The new regime has only been in place for six months. Having reviewed the Provider Handbook, there does appear to be more flexibility in the process. Under the section ‘Making judgements’ it states:

These examples of what we would expect to see in demonstration that the characteristics of each key question, and fundamental standards, are being met. The KLOE’s and examples of evidence are not an exhaustive list, or a ‘checklist’. We will take into account the context of the Practice when we look for evidence.

Therefore, the KLOEs and prompts do not need to be followed to the letter. It seems as long as the registered Provider can show the five questions and fundamental standards are being met, they should be free to run their Practice as they see fit.

The Handbook is much more user friendly; the five questions each have the relevant KLOEs set out and examples of how to demonstrate these have been met. The relevant Regulations are referred to under each question, but the document does not set out the Regulation and avoids legal jargon. Having in place good Practice policies and procedures, having regard to patient satisfaction,  ensuring legal documentation is completed and training and managing staff effectively will greatly assist when preparing for a CQC inspection; all the elements needed to run a successful business in any event.

If you have prepared in line with the old inspection regime, then the reality is that you should meet the requirements of the new regime. The Regulations are very similar; they both focus on patient safety, legal requirements and managing staff/the business.

The new Regulations add a ‘duty of candour’, which requires a Provider to notify a patient if something unexpected happens, so this will need to be considered when preparing for your next inspection. 

Only time will tell if this new system does in fact ease the bureaucratic burden on Registered Providers, freeing up your time to concentrate on dentistry.   

Fees

In addition to the changes made to the inspection regime, in October 2014 the CQC began consultation on a proposed increase to registration fees. The proposal was to raise fees for all registered Providers, except Dental Services. The rationale for this was that the CQC did not envisage the cost of regulating dentists would increase. The proposed increase for other registered Providers was 9%. This came into effect on 1^st April 2015 and, as proposed, registration fees for dentists this year remained the same.

On 2^nd November 2015 the CQC announced a further consultation on increases to registration fees. The good news for dentists is that it is proposed registration fees for 2016/17 should again remain the same and for 2017/18 they should be decreased and then frozen until 2019/2020.

Unfortunately for GP practices, they will see registration fees nearly double year on year for the next four years.

To find out what your annual registration fee is you can use this handy calculator from the CQC website:

http://www.cqc.org.uk/content/fees-calculator

Laura Pearce, Senior Solicitor

The state of the nation’s children’s dental health never seems far from the headlines. Although the NHS insists there has been a vast improvement over the past decade, the fact that nearly 26,000 five-to-nine year olds were admitted to hospital for tooth decay in England in 2013-14[i], means the time for action is now. But a focused, multi-agency approach, based on education and prevention, must consider how a child’s needs change as they grow older and move into adolescence.

Just like other life stages, hormones play a significant part, making a good oral health routine crucial. Research has shown that puberty’s rush of ‘sex hormones’ affects the periodontium.[ii] This is an unavoidable factor; as for an ‘avoidable’ one, a smoking habit usually starts, and gets established, during adolescence, and obviously has many serious consequences for dental and systemic health.

Like smoking, eating disorders are often initiated during the teenage years. Individuals who develop bulimia nervosa may experience acid erosion to the surface of the teeth as a result of vomiting. Anorexia nervosa can lead to increased caries, xerostomia and osteoporosis due to a lack of essential nutrients.

Energy drinks are popular during examination time as they are marketed as boosting energy, decreasing fatigue and enhancing concentration. However, they are often full of sugar, too. Skipping breakfast – or grabbing something unhealthy on-the-go – is also common. New research has shown that teens are twice as likely to suffer from halitosis if they miss breakfast[iii] and, with these years being a defining time socially, bad breath can be a great motivational tool to trigger better oral care!

With finances also likely to be an issue we need to look at simple, cost-effective ways to boost teens’ dental health between appointments. Education about the causes of halitosis, proper brushing techniques and the dangers of smoking of course are important, but they could add some adjunctive products, too, such as CB12 mouth rinse and Boost chewing gum which are clinically proven to neutralise the gases that cause halitosis and keep the the mouth fresh all day.  

With such a drive to improve children’s dental health, we much not forget what comes after. Late adolescence is full of social, psychological and financial pressures and regular trips to the dentist are unlikely to be a priority, especially if an individual has just left home for the first time. The best solutions are always the simple ones, and no one wants to be known as the person with bad teeth or breath! Guidance and support is not just for kids, and will provide life-long benefits.

For more information on CB12 and the extensive research behind it, please visit www.cb12.co.uk

Rapidly produced products are often poor quality. If we take the example of fast food, this is widely accepted – you will not find ‘Superfood’ in your fried chicken bucket, but a meal delivered within seconds, saving you hours of toil in the kitchen. Convenience versus excellence is often the trade off for speedy delivery. But is this an exchange we’re still happy with in the 21^st Century?

Today, convenience and immediacy are ever more in demand but with less room to compromise on quality. For example, the first digital cameras produced low resolution, poor quality images that couldn’t compete with the detail and pin sharp quality of conventional film/transparencies. However, in recent times the developmental explosion in digital photography embraced the modern age and replaced conventional, film photography. Not only are there cameras available that generate pictures in enormous file sizes (such as 36 megapixels), they can also integrate High Definition video functions (gaining popularity over conventional ‘stills’ photography) and even allow you to adjust the focus after the picture has been taken.

Today, the speed of digital photography is taken for granted. Formerly, with conventional film cameras, an initial camera click led to processing, printing and perhaps retouching – commonly taking up to a week. Nowadays, digital photography is instantly downloaded, manipulated in Photoshop and then emailed or shared via an internet platform. It’s now so commonplace that we forget how time consuming this whole process used to be. Without digital images, we would have a very different world – no Instagram, Snapchat, or pictures on Facebook or Twitter!

Similarly, restorative dentistry has made enormous strides in technology, but these innovations have been married with remarkable improvements in quality. Digital intraoral scanning, CAD/CAM and 3D capabilities have improved the patient experience enormously. A comparative study conducted by Bio Med Central in 2014, tested conventional and digital techniques with the same patients – 100% preferred the digital option, from the perspectives of comfort through to the amount of time spent in the dentist’s chair.[i] Today, using the combination of intra oral scanning, CAD/CAM and 3D printing, technicians can produce a wide range of bespoke models and orthodontic appliances, constituting failsafe precision.

The CS 9300 CBCT and panoramic imaging system from Carestream Dental offers both rapid and faultless restorative dentistry. There are 7 fields of view enabling clinicians to meet patients’ diagnostic needs with impressive detail, and two low radiation dose options that give exposure control by both the adjustable field of vision and rapid scanning functions. Available on its own or as part of the fully integrated digital system, the CS 9300 system offers streamlined workflows, increased productivity, patient security and satisfaction. Let technology save you the precious time needed to fully focus on your patients.

For more information please contact the experts at Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

Delegates at this year’s BACD Annual Conference will be treated to a diverse range of exceptional educational opportunities.

Among these, and promising to be one of the event’s highlights, is the occlusion management panel, hosted by Dr Ken Harris, Dr Ian Buckle, Dr Heike Krämer, Dr Any Toy and Dr Chris Orr. “I’m looking forward to a vigorous and forthright exchange of ideas,” says Dr Harris. “Delegates will be encouraged to offer their own insights, as well as being exposed to ours.

“Occlusion plays an important role in the success of our restorative dentistry and, as the population ages, it is incumbent on today’s dental practitioners to be able to restore these gradually failing dentitions so patients can retain their own teeth.”

A long-standing fellow of the BACD and the first UK graduate of the Kois Center in Seattle, Dr Harris is known for his knowledge of the Kois approach to occlusion, one of the most popular trends in modern occlusal theory and thought – and will be bringing his considerable expertise to bear during the session.

Join delegates from all across the country for this inspirational three-day event – make sure you register your place today!

The BACD’s 12^th Annual Conference runs from 12^th - 14^th November 2015 at The Hilton London Metropole Hotel. For more information and to book your place, go to www.bacd.com

Not to be missed this November – amazing savings on industry-leading brands such as 3M ESPE Dental, Dentsply, NSK, Voco and more.

As well as exclusive promotions on quality products such as Alkazyme and UltraWipes Expert from Alkapharm and Alveogyl and Endocal from Septodont, other top packages in the Wrights seasonal flyer include:

• Buy four K3™ or K3XF Files from Kerr and get one free
• Buy two get one free on Maxcem Elite from Kerr
• Buy three packs of xantasil® from Heraeus Kulzer and get preVision® Temp A2 completely free of charge

With a highly experienced and dedicated team delivering exceptional customer service, it is no wonder that more dental professionals are turning to Wrights as their first choice dental supplier.

To find out what you are missing and for a full list of products and promotions available, contact the team today – you will experience customer service like never before.

For more information contact Wrights on 0800 66 88 99 or visit the easy to navigate website www.wright-cottrell.co.uk

Working with the British Dental Health Foundation, the Association of Dental Groups (ADG) continues to pledge its support to Mouth Cancer Action Month in November and it’s mission to promote understanding of oral cancer.

With over 40 years of experience, the British Dental Health Foundation has dedicated its time to educating, imparting advice and running crucial campaigns, with its messages reaching 560 million people.

Together, the ADG and British Dental Health Foundation continue raising awareness of the early signs and symptoms of oral cancer and encouraging regular dental check ups. By increasing the chance of early diagnosis, morbidity rates and the devastating effects of oral cancer can be minimised.

Through the Blue Ribbon Appeal and by taking part in Blue Wednesdays and the Blue Lip Selfie Campaign, you can show your support to the cause.

Get involved and help change tomorrow’s statistics, today.

For more information about the ADG visit www.dentalgroups.co.uk

Four members of the Rodericks management team will soon be participating in the “Sleep Out for Centrepoint” on 12^th November, hoping to help raise awareness and donations to support the amazing work of the charity.

Georgina Linton, Training Manager at Rodericks, is among those sleeping rough for the cause:

“As part of Rodericks’ work with Centrepoint, I had been looking into how the group could help regarding the dental and health education needs of individuals the charity supports. It is an inspiring organisation that not only helps young people get off the streets, but also helps build them a future by teaching essential life skills.

“I jumped at the chance to get more involved and raise money through the ‘Sleep Out’ campaign and my colleagues Aaron Baldwin, Kavita Malhotra and Lesley Marr were keen to join me.”

The group will sleep under the stars at The Old Truman Brewery on Brick Lane in London this November, hoping to raise £1,500 towards this fantastic cause.

All donations, however large or small, are greatly appreciated and can be given at sleepout2015-londonotb.everydayhero.com/uk/rodericks/members.

Thank you for your support!

For more details about the “Sleep Out for Centrepoint” or to get involved, visit www.centrepoint.org.uk/news-events/events/sleep-out.

For more information about Rodericks please visit www.rodericksdental.co.uk, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

or call 01604 602491.

If you haven’t already booked your place at the BACD Twelfth Annual Conference, now is your last chance.

Always an exciting event, the 2015 conference looks ready to surpass previous years: world-class speakers, inspirational and exciting topics and endless networking opportunities await delegates this November.

Speakers include: Dr Serhat Köken, Dr Hatem Algraffee, Dr Oliver Harman, Dr Heike Krämer, Dr Ken Harris and more – all of whom will be delivering a diverse selection of lectures, seminars and hands-on sessions.

This educational programme has been tailored to provide a compelling overview of cosmetic dentistry and will cover isolation tips, clinical photography, BACD Accreditation advice, implantology and much more. The opportunities here for creativity and learning are infinite and simply cannot be missed.

So, if you are looking for a way to reignite your passion for beautiful dentistry, meet like-minded individuals and learn from some of the very best professionals in the industry, look no further than the BACD Annual Conference.

To book your place, contact the team today.

The BACD’s 12^th Annual Conference runs from 12^th - 14^th November 2015 at The Hilton London Metropole Hotel. For further enquiries about the BACD  and to book your place, please visit www.bacd.com

A combination of stimulating presentations, hands-on workshops and masterclasses will be delivered, with delegates able to attend two out of the eight available. A broad spectrum of topics from peri-implantitis to team collaboration, integrated workflows, immediate placement protocols and long-term management of dental implants will be covered, with every session designed to inform and inspire.

Held on 6^th and 7^th November at the stunning location of The Brewery in London, you won’t find a programme quite like this elsewhere in the UK.

For more information or to register please visit www.nobelbiocare.com/uk2015, or contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300.

Representing the very latest in dental practice management software is the CS R4+ from Carestream Dental featuring Springboard.

Operating in real-time, the intuitive software delivers live data on key KPIs so you know exactly how your business is performing at any given time. At a glance you’ll better understand your practice’s chair occupancy, treatment pan uptake rate, appointment confirmations and effectiveness of recare programmes in place.

The CS R4+ can be easily and fully integrated with any imaging or patient communication programmes and technologies you employ, so that a smooth and seamless workflow can be enjoyed by all members of the team. Popular solutions from Carestream Dental include the eSignatures module, Appointmentor Online Booking System, Text Messaging Service and AutoPost, each optimising security and convenience for both patients and professionals.

The team at Carestream Dental are also committed to the business corporate programme, eXceed, so you can trust in the high standard of service and support you will receive with any and all new innovations.

Discover the CS R4+ practice management software and all its benefits for yourself today.

For more information, contact Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

For all the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter @CarestreamDentl and Facebook 

“I was very happy with the service I received from Dental Elite,” says a Principal from Sussex who has recently sold their practice. “My representative was very supportive and I found it extremely valuable to be able to deal with the same person throughout the whole process.

“I thought the valuation process went very well and I was pleasantly surprised at just how flexibly the figures could be analysed.

“I would highly recommend Dental Elite to other professionals – in fact I’m singing their praises to all of my colleagues.”

Dental Elite prides itself on being able to offer dental professionals honest and pragmatic advice when it comes to selling their practice. With a wealth of hands-on experience and a dedication to seeing a job well done, the friendly team at Dental Elite are always ready to help.

To find out just what they can do for you, contact them today.

For more information and to find out how Dental Elite can value
and assist your practice sale visit www.dentalelite.co.uk, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01788 545 900

The Dental Technology Showcase (DTS) is pleased to welcome Straumann as Headline Sponsor for the 2016 event.

Event Director Chris Brown comments:

“We are delighted that Straumann, a leading provider in implant, restorative and regenerative dentistry, is supporting DTS in this way. Together, we hope to deliver a diverse range of high quality education for all delegates, while also presenting the very latest products, materials and state-of-the-art technologies on the market.”

Stephen Booth, Country Manager of Straumann UK notes,

‘CADCAM and digital technology is becoming even more essential for streamlining laboratories to make them more efficient. In a rapidly changing market, we are excited to showcase our solutions for technicians and DTS provides the ideal opportunity to explore how we can work together in partnership.’

At the UK’s largest and leading event for dental technology, DTS, held alongside The Dentistry Show, the Straumann team will be available across the two-days demonstrating their extensive range of innovations for dental laboratories.

The Straumann® Dental lmplant System is complemented by a range of matching precision components, designed and crafted to the highest quality standards in order to ensure long-term reliability, and technicians are encouraged to use genuine Straumann components to ensure the long-term success of all implant cases. The Straumann® Variobase® Abutment delivers a highly cost-effective solution for screw-retained single crowns and cement-retained crowns and bridges on either Bone or Tissue level implants, offering extended restoration options for maximum design freedom.

Straumann is also a leading developer of digital solutions that seamlessly connect computer-assisted imaging, planning, design and manufacturing across the entire tooth replacement/restoration workflow. With this advanced technology, the company offers state-of-the-art CADCAM prosthetics to specialists, general dentists and dental laboratories around the world. Straumann® CARES® CADCAM prosthetics are manufactured to very high precision standards in centralised milling, processing a broad range of materials.
 

Additionally, Straumann’s partnership with Createch provides a wide range of CADCAM structure solutions for implant-borne dental prostheses for a variety of indications, and is importantly underlined by Straumann’s Guarantee of clinical accuracy of components.

DTS 2016 will be held on Friday 22^nd and Saturday 23^rd April at the NEC Birmingham. For more information please visit www.the-dts.co.uk, call 020 7348 5263 or email dts@closerstillmedia.com

Learning from the best

As soon as one begins their training to become a dental professional, they understand this will never really have an end point during their career.  The natural skills involved in being a dentist have to be accompanied by continual education and ongoing learning to ensure that new techniques and materials are kept abreast off, resulting in the optimum care provided to patients.

Additionally, patients are becoming more aware of the treatment options available to them and consequently more demanding of the results that they receive. They know that they can choose which dentist to go to depending on the treatment that they require, and often carry out extensive research to ensure that they choose the best. There are a number of ways to differentiate yourself from the other practice down the road; one of which includes subscribing to a specialist academy. By marketing this membership to your existing and potential patients, you are showing your commitment to your education, an outstanding quality of service provision and the dedication that your patients are looking for.

Your time is valuable – choose wisely

They say nothing beats face-to-face interaction and this is most certainly true when it comes to education. The academy that you choose to join will depend on the education avenues available from them, so you need to ensure that you select the one that suits your learning needs the most. However, the choice of academies to join and their educational conferences to attend is vast and confusing. Your time is very valuable, to both you and your patients, so it is important to choose wisely.

A worthwhile academy should offer the latest in education, career support, assistance to find more patients and value for money. The larger academies in the industry will hold an annual conference that should be a high point of your yearly membership.  The most prestigious conferences offer internationally recognised experts in their field, meaning you can remain close to home, but find out about techniques and developments from all around the world. You usually watch a series of lectures and participate in hands-on workshops on a range of topics by highly regarded opinion leaders and there is the opportunity to ask questions and get answers from the experts.

It’s not what you know, but who you know

Another important aspect of attending the most high profile of annual conferences is networking. At these events you can meet old and current acquaintances and catch-up on their most recent news. But, you also get to the chance to meet new peers and opinion leaders that have similar professional interests to you and can become an important mentor within your career.

It is only at some of the better conferences that you can get access to the speakers on a one-to-one basis. This allows you to seek valuable career advice from them, clinical case counsel, get suggestions on specialist courses to attend and hear their experiences with particular products and materials. This is most definitely valuable time well spent!

The most talked about conference of the year!

The most influential conference in the aesthetic dentistry calendar is no doubt the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry’s (BACD) Annual Conference in November. As always, the 2015 event it is expected to be one of the most talked about conferences of the year! For the last 12 years, the BACD has staged professional educational conferences that have attracted the most eminent of dental professionals offering their insights into their specialist topics.

This year the conference is titled, ‘The Aesthetic Equilibrium’ and it seeks to achieve harmony between biology, science, technical aspects, aesthetics and mechanics, as well as balancing the patient’s emotional, financial and clinical needs. By using the finest national and international speakers, the BACD hopes the topics will inspire you and offer an insight on how to achieve this balance. The speakers are also very approachable and will be happy to offer advice and recommendations; a trait thought to be quite unique to this particular conference.

Further still, there will be trade representatives present to provide demonstrations and advice on the latest equipment and materials, as well as offering special offers and prices. There is something for everyone at the BACD Annual Conference, so bring along other team members to optimise the opportunity; there will be something for everyone.
 

The BACD’s 12^th Annual Conference runs from 12^th - 14^th November 2015 at The Hilton London Metropole Hotel. Go to www.bacd.com, email Suzy Rowlands at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 0207 612 4166.

Make a Dentist Charity is proud to present;

Make a Dentist Conference and Exhibition 2016

Following on from the huge success of lasts years inaugural conference, MAD has lined up an exciting list of speakers that will be sure to get your parotid glands going!

When: Wednesday 6th January 2016 at 12.30-17.30

Where: Kings College London, New Hunts House Lecture theatre, New Hunts House, London, SE1 1UL.

Tickets: Buy here

As the Association of Dental Groups (ADG) continues to promote prevention of dental health problems and delivery of quality outcomes for patients in a sustainable, high quality manner, Mouth Cancer Action Month remains of utmost importance.

“As long term supporters of the British Dental Health Foundation and Mouth Cancer Action Month, we are as pleased as ever to be able to contribute to such a worthy cause,” comments Chair of the ADG, David Worskett. “By working together we can tackle oral cancer and make a real difference to those who suffer, one campaign at a time.”

Indeed, now that Mouth Cancer Action Month is underway – as launched by the British Dental Health Foundation on the 29^th of October at the House of Commons – the ADG will once again resume its task of raising awareness on diagnosis and prevention.

Currently, statistics show that only 40% of patients who develop mouth cancer visit the dentist with concerns. [i] But as Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation Dr Nigel Carter OBE explains, “if the dental and wider health profession can inform and urge patients to regularly attend dental check-ups, we can increase the chances of mouth cancer being detected at an early stage.”

If any headway is to be made, these wise words must be implemented. Indeed, with the latest figures showing that 6,767[ii] people are diagnosed with mouth cancer in the UK each year, it is important that as many people as possible get involved with Mouth Cancer Action Month.

Whether it’s the Blue Lip Selfie Campaign – where all you need to do is take a selfie of yourself and share it with the hashtag #bluelipselfie – or showing your support by wearing a blue ribbon badge, your participation is crucial to the success of the campaign.

Another useful tool available is the oral cancer CPD module available through the ADG, designed by {my}dentist. While it may not be mandatory, recapping on areas such as early symptoms, referral and treatment pathways for the disease and improving patient awareness could be the difference between saving and losing a life.

That is why the ADG is pleased to announce the return of the CPD module, and hopes that the tool will help in the battle against mouth cancer. The module is free to review, with only a small cost of £25 plus VAT – £5 of which will be donated to the British Dental Health Foundation and the Mouth Cancer Action Month campaign – for those wishing to apply for a CPD certificate.

Ultimately, the campaign needs all the help and support it can get, especially as research indicates that early detection of mouth cancer can result in a survival outcome of 90%.[iii]

For more information on Mouth Cancer Action Month, the CPD module and to find out how you can be a part of the month long November campaign, contact the ADG today.

For more information about the ADG visit www.dentalgroups.co.uk.

Dr Bob Ballard and Hema Dhingra of Ballard and Tucker Dental Practice in Bedfordshire explain the positive impact of transferring their dental plan to Patient Plan Direct.

At the beginning of 2014 we set ourselves a realistic target of growing our practice turnover and profitability. As part of this exercise we looked at every cost centre in our business to try and identify where we could potentially cut costs and increase profitability. One area that stood out the most was the administration fees that we were paying to our plan provider at the time. Nearly 10% of our plan income month on month was eaten up in administration fees, so we set out to explore alternative solutions to running our practices dental plans.

Discovering Patient Plan Direct

We looked at other plan provider propositions in the market and were attracted to Patient Plan Direct thanks to their low and flat administration fees, strong reputation, administrative efficiency and experience of managing lots of successful plan provider transfers.

In meeting with one of Patient Plan Direct’s business development team we were not only put at ease regarding the management of the transfer process and what was involved, but were also impressed with the advise we received around growing our plan base further which was inline with our overall objectives.  

We were so confident the transfer and on-going plan growth strategy was the right move for the practice and our patients that we committed there and then.

With almost 400 plan patients we stood to save over £8,000 per annum (£40,000 in the next five years) in administration fees year on year as a result of the transfer.

Patient retention as a result of our transfer

We were understandably nervous initially that transfer would result in some patient drop off. However, Patient Plan Direct fully managed and fulfilled the mailing to patients and supported us throughout the transfer process to ensure retention was maximised. The communication of the transfer to patients was presented in a positive manner to ensure patients were assured that the move was in the best interest of both the practice and our valued patients in the long term. 

As a result of the effective management of the transfer we lost literally a handful of patients, no more than we would normally expect as a result of the annual fee increase we had always been encouraged to apply year on year by our old plan provider.  

A revised plan strategy and subsequent growth

Once our transfer was underway we applied the strategic changes Patient Plan Direct recommended. Previously we had only offered and promoted to patients a capitation (care) based plan. We felt we had exhausted the promotion of such a plan proposition to our patient base. As such, we opted to introduce a simple, value driven maintenance plan as a new option for patients. This was in line with current consumer habits and market trends which Patient Plan Direct explained to us.

Once we had determined the best plan structure and price point that would prove beneficial and attractive to patients and profitable to the practice, we completed a full team training session with one of Patient Plan Direct’s experienced business development managers. The session ensured the whole practice team was clear on the overall objectives, recognised the benefits of the plan to both the practice and patients and ensured everyone was confident in speaking about and promoting the plan.

One year on from when we completed our plan provider transfer we have increased our total plan base by a further 50% representing a significant increase in plan income month on month. Moreover, the plan continues to grow week on week. We now have even more loyal patients at the practice that have committed their oral health care to us for the long term.

Assessing your dental plan provision

Patient Plan Direct is a plan provider offering a low cost plan administration fee of £1 per patient per month (inc. VAT and Worldwide Dental A&E cover).  Patient Plan Direct has helped practices across the UK successfully transfer their existing dental plan from other plan providers, benefiting from significant cost savings and first-class support.

Web: www.patientplandirect.co.uk

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel: 08448486888

Visitors to the UK’s largest Dental Show met with a surprise warm welcome, courtesy of Systems for Dentists, one of the UK’s leading providers of practice management software at the NEC, Birmingham this weekend.

Over 12,000 visitors had the opportunity to meet their branded “Tooth Fairy” over the three day event at the annual BDIA Dental Showcase.

The meet and greet mystical character proved to be a real hit with Dental Professionals who visited the Systems for Dentists stand. Hosting a warm and friendly welcome, guests were presented with a miniature tooth pendant and a personalised calling card from the Tooth Fairy!,

And seeing was believing for those who also took advantage of a first hand version of a system demonstration where they were talked through the benefits of innovative product launch of Virtual Reception – the company’s latest software development – focused on helping practices to be open 24/7/365 with the help of their new patient portal.

As a departing gesture, visitors to the Systems for Dentists stand were also presented with a little something to place under their pillow, courtesy of the Tooth Fairy!

The appeal of the company’s V6 Dental Practice Management software was attractive at the show and supported by the offer of a fully integrated package of features included within the price, coupled with time, money and efficiency savings end even the option to go paperless, making paper signatures almost a thing of the past with the companies introduction to their peripherals range of Wireless Signature Pads.

As a credible and trusted brand, and with almost thirty years’ experience in systems software development and a profound knowledge of the UK dental software market, dentists looking to make a positive change to their practice management in 2015 who visited BDIA this year could be confident of having their requirements perfectly met and understood by the experienced and helpful team at Systems for Dentists.

For further information contact:

Systems for Dentists on

www.sfd.co

0845 643 2828

Situated just outside Coventry and within the spectacular Ricoh Arena – home to the Wasps, Europe’s most progressive rugby club – Planmeca welcomed their new distribution partners and esteemed guests last Thursday to officially open a new customer experience centre and UK headquarters.

The showroom was opened by Tuomas Lokki, Planmeca Group Senior Vice President and Karl O’Higgins Managing Director of Planmeca UK.

Tuomas said “this is a new era for Planmeca UK and our new home is one of the most important foundations from which success can be built upon. This new facility offers the perfect environment to discover our range of digital imaging solutions, world class CAD/CAM system and our range of highly innovative digital dental units.”

Karl echoed Tuomas’s comments by saying “This stunning facility is testament to Heikki Kyöstil?’s vision for Planmeca UK to be an integral part of Planmeca’s global success – Mr Kyöstil? is founder and president of the Planmeca Group, who unfortunately could not be present for the event, but wished the local team and distribution partners well for the future.

Via our new and expanded distributor network, alongside a world class product portfolio and innovative mobile showroom, we are now well positioned across the UK and Ireland. Any dentist or DCP wanting to experience Planmeca’s innovative digital workflow now has that opportunity through multiple channels and in multiple environments.

The new customer experience centre features a dedicated CAD/CAM training zone alongside a full range of 3D imaging machines showcasing the latest in imaging technology. The showroom also includes Planmeca’s range of digital dental units, all combined through the comprehensive and modular Romexis software. The showroom can be easily transformed into a small conference and event facility capable of hosting courses for up to 40 delegates.

The showroom is equipped with the latest technology to ensure seamless presentations with full HD LED projectors and multi speaker surround sound installed, ensuring a seamless experience for both presenters and delegates. There are a number of meeting rooms available, all of which are equally fitted out with the latest conference technology and catering is available from the Ricoh Arena in-house hospitality team. If you have need for a high quality Midlands lecture and events facility, maybe give us a call.

To view the complete range of Planmeca digital solutions at our NEW customer experience centre, please call 0500 500 686, alternatively email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.


www.planmeca.co.uk

0500 500 586

It was not until recently that I have thought of the significance of the year 1984. The year that the Dentist’s Act was put on the statute books is also the year George Orwell wrote about in his 1949 Novel. What a coincidence.

I was never one for this sort of literary masterpiece in my youth, preferring more escapism than that provided by the rather dark writings of George Orwell. After all, how would a fictional writing about a society that records what its members say in order to use against those same members be relevant to my future career? A story about a society that encourages members to report one another to the authorities in order to punish them for minor transgressions was not really going to be hugely useful when human biology and chemistry was going to be the entry requirements for dentistry in a couple of years….

How wrong was I. It would appear that in fact 1984 is a highly relevant textbook on how the regulation of dentistry is currently modelled.  Just like in Orwell’s Tome we have individuals who are all too happy to report colleagues directly to the authorities; multiple omnipresent organisations taking the role of the morally correct ready to report us immediately to Big Brother for everything and anything, and now, with the information that appears to be coming to light from the numerous Subject Access Requests (SAR), the actual holding of data on some (if not all) of us by the GDC.

Despite the assurances recently at the Dental Protection study day by the Head of FtP, Jonathan Green, that the only reason a watch is kept on GDPUK is to report to the executive about what the profession think of the GDC, I find myself just a little uncomfortable that this is not entirely the whole reason why. If the GDC want to know what we think of them then fine;

BUT WHY KEEP IT ON THE REGISTRANT’S FILE?

There can be NO reason whatsoever to keep this information logged against an individual. None. Feeding back to the executive the opinion of the profession is one thing, and probably sensible. However, it seems they don’t want to do anything particularly to improve our perception of them; possibly they are just making sure they’ve got the level of fear just right in the profession so we keep toeing the line. But storing that information in the registrant’s data file is not necessary. Unless they are going to use it against us at a later date there can be no reason for that.

Now it might just be entirely innocent and that it is just an administrative mistake why this potential breach of the Data Protection Act is occurring; and lets face it, the GDC have got history in this area as the Information Commissioner has just recently ordered undertakings to be made by the GDC for a previous breach. It might even be that the head of FtP wasn’t actually aware of what was going on in another department. But it is none the less worrying as to why the right to freedom of speech (Article 10 of the Human Rights Act) is being is being threatened in this way. Surely if individuals think their comments made on a private professional forum are somehow being noted and stored this will make them think twice about contributing in the first place. A Public Body such as the GDC has responsibility to uphold the Human Rights of those it is responsible for, not to make them feel threatened.

All this is before we get onto the subject of using Private Investigators in order to further challenge the Human Rights of its registrants. It would appear that this is down to the Professional Standards Authority wanting the GDC to be more proactive in ensuring registrants are kept on the straight and narrow. Perhaps the BDA should engage the services of a PI company and then send them to check on members of the FtP panels or the GDC executive themselves. I can imagine the outcry at 37 Wimpole Street if this were to happen, but surely they too are all innocent until proven guilty just as the registrants are? I am also intrigued as to why the use of Private Investigators is allowed, since neither the GDC nor the PSA appear on the list of the 40 types of authority sanctioned to use them under the Regulation of Investigatory Powers Act 2000. Perhaps someone more legally trained can enlighten me as to the mechanism under which they can use them legitimately, because all I can see is the infringement of Article 8 of the Human Rights Act, the right to privacy.

I have been writing for GDPUK for just over a year now, and whilst I am still awaiting my SAR, I am pretty sure there will be references to these blogs made. Why? They are on the public facing side of GDPUK for a start and accessible to all. They are also my individual views, which I am entitled to hold, about a regulator that has been shown to be acting in a draconian, inefficient, illegal (remember the ARF consultation?) and now it appears an Orwellian manner. Now as far as I am concerned, I have never knowingly written one word that isn’t true. It is not unprofessional to tell the truth; indeed we have a professional duty to do so. It is not misconduct to tell the truth, and it is not bringing the profession into disrepute to tell the truth. It is also not illegal and it is not dishonest to tell the truth (obviously!). But I am worried that a regulator that is still so out of touch will try to deprive me of my livelihood and professional standing just because I have spoken up about its failings. Why else would it probably be keeping references to things I’ve said? Given some of the strange heads of charges still found on FtP hearings (do ANY of us justify the ‘reason for a try in’ in our notes?) it wouldn’t be too hard to come up with something suitably fitting for my literary forays. Perhaps when I get my SAR there will now be absolutely nothing about my views in there. Especially if they read this article…..

Literary analogies seem to abound in the way 37 Wimpole Street appears to do its business, from the McCarthyism of Miller’s Crucible and its tales of the Salem Witch Hunt to the totalitarianism power of the Communist era in Orwell’s 1984. A combination of these two literary masterpieces seems to be the current operations manual for the GDC in how it polices its registrants.

In that case I think it’s time for the profession to bring the works of J K Rowling to life…..

Come, say hello and see Senior Partner of Lockharts Solicitors and Chairman of the Lawyers' Group of National Association of Specialist Dental Accountants and Lawyers (NASDAL), Andrew Lockhart-Mirams, speaking at the Lily Head exhibitor stand N25 at the BDIA Dental Showcase on Friday 23rd October at 10.00am to 1.00pm.

Andrew will be speaking about various key legal issues for all Dental professionals to be aware of.

What our clients say:

"Masterfully powerful yet elegantly subtle-supremely persuasive (sounds like a Premier Cru Claret?!). Seriously we're greatly impressed and offer renewed thanks." - Dr John Cannon approving long draft letter

"Words will never truly express my gratitude for your sincere and steadfast help." – Client

"Who better than to go to the Godfather of Dental Law." - Dental sales agent

"The main reason you did not hear is because the letter was perfect" - Client on receiving draft letter

If you would like to specifically meet and make an appointment to discuss a particular legal matter, then please do let Andrew Lockhart-Mirams know on the day or feel free to contact us on: 020 7383 7111 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Andrew looks forward to seeing you at the Conference!

@csdlockharts

www.lockharts.co.uk

Denplan has been at the heart of dental care for nearly 30 years and this October we have launched our largest ever national TV campaign, with a TV ad that is being aired for three weeks on a host of popular channels.  You’ll be able to find out lots more about this campaign at Denplan’s Stand (M25) at the BDIA Showcase this week.

In nutshell, the ad plays on todays’ selfie-obsessed culture by using humour to dramatise what happens when people lack confidence about their teeth whilst taking a selfie. Denplan believes it’s a concept that many of us can relate to as Denplan’s research with YouGov revealed just how popular selfies are today… a staggering 5.6 million selfies are taken in an average day by adults online.  Furthermore, nearly three quarters (74%) of adults have worried about how their teeth look in photographs.*

There is a fun interactive element to the ad with the incorporation of a hashtag (#doitforyourselfie) encouraging people to generate and post their own selfie via Twitter, Instagram, or via www.doitforyourselfie.co.uk.  Visitors to the Denplan stand will have the opportunity to take their own selfie and upload it there and then to the doitforyourselfie.co.uk gallery, as there will be an interactive selfie wall on the stand. By uploading a selfie, participants will automatically enter the #doitforyourselfie competition to win £2,000 of UK holiday park gift vouchers and an Iphone 6s**

Richard Ward, Head of marketing at Denplan says: “The ad has moved away from the typical clinical or educational advertisements that could be for any number of dental products. Instead, viewers will see a memorable, impactful ad using humour to engage them. The aim of the ad is to make everyone feel proud of their smile, and to highlight the importance of preventive care and regular dental visits and it encourages patients to seek advice from a Denplan dentist.

“Our intention with the ad is that it will also capitalise on the unique strength of the Denplan consumer brand which will work in partnership with Denplan’s member practices own brands to help them stand out in a competitive market. We believe the ad will provide dentists with the ideal opportunity to talk to their patients about the benefits of joining Denplan and drive more patients into their practices.”

As an example of the marketing support Denplan provides for its member practices, every practice has been sent a #doitforyourselfie pack which contains a range of marketing tools to help practices make the most of the campaign, including some eye catching background posters and a selfie stick so that practice teams can encourage patients to take a “post check-up selfie” and enter the #doitforyourselfie competition.

If you haven’t seen the ad yet, don’t worry as you won’t be able to miss it at the BDIA Showcase!  You can come and view the ad on our stand, where our friendly Denplan consultants will also be available to talk to you about the wide range of services we offer. There will be a private seating area where you can have an in-depth chat with a Denplan consultant.  Please do come along and learn more about our wide range of dental plans for adults and children, which enables patients to spread the cost of their private dental care through a fixed monthly fee. Denplan supports regular attendance and preventive care, reducing the need for clinical intervention and helping patients to maintain healthy teeth and gums for life.

*Source: YouGov survey for Denplan. Survey was carried out online with 2077 adults, September 2015. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+)

** Competition open to Denplan patients and non-Denplan patients aged 18+. Closing date, midnight on the 4th November 2015. Full terms and conditions apply and can be found at denplan.co.uk/selfieterms

Value and Service Dental Supplies (VSDent) is a dynamic new supplier of dental products and equipment.

We aim to offer highly competitive pricing and excellent customer service which in turn helps our customers to save £££ around the year.

At this year’s Showcase, we are offering additional discounts and special offers across our range of products.

Visit us at the BDIA Showcase, stand E230 for:-

• The chance to win a  DTE D6 Ultrasonic Scaler Unit (Worth £300)
• Free Bur samples
• Buy 2 Get 1 Free Exhibition special offers on most of products
• Bonus offers on orders placed at the Exhibition
• The opportunity to try our Composite, GIC & Impression material ranges
• The opportunity to try our ranges of Handpieces & Woodpecker products

Presentation & live demonstration of Ultrasurgery, piezo bone surgery system at product demo zone.

               Thursday 22^nd -14.00-14.30, Friday 23^nd -14.00-14.30, Saturday 24^th -15.00-15.30

Ultrasurgery is a piezoelectric surgical unit designed for high precision surgical procedure. Piezo surgery has been advocated* for use in a wide number of dental applications including:-

?     Implantology:- Implant socket preparation, Alveolar ridge splitting and expansion, Re-contouring of alveolar crest, Mental nerve management,

?     Root Procedures:- Separation of roots, Hemi-section, Root amputation, Periodontal surgery, Apical resection

?     Maxillary Sinus Procedures:- Preparation of bone window with lateral approach; Dissection of sinus mucosa; Sinus floor elevation.

* Yaman Z, Suer BT. Piezoelectric surgery in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Annals of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery 2013 Feb 01;1(1):5.

www.vsdent.com

The early autumn is a period of wind  and rain, perhaps storms and even the back end of the Atlantic hurricanes.  All in all it is often a period of wild weather.

I wonder if dentistry is entering its own Autumn of storms and wild and windy conditions.

Can we hope even for a “fall” of sorts, in Wimpole Street; you know, a “Fall from Grace?” Perhaps near that newly refurbished office block at No 37?

I dream.  It’s too much to hope.

Let’s look at the facts.

West Side Story

The BDA [at No 64, being on the West side of the street] are suddenly in a ballot kind of frame of mind, openly calling for such a move. [1] OK it is only the hospital based colleagues but they have tagged along with the BMA on the proposed changing of the working week to include the weekend.

Now if the Government, broadly, get away with this, anyone fancy betting it will trickle into GDP in the new contract?

Meanwhile the GDC have attracted Dr Mick’s ire – again - as they feel the need to start examining how to measure the quality of YOUR dental care.  The GDC ? Yes, you heard right. [2]

GDC Metrication is on the way to YOUR practice

In the GDC’s Big Plan for the Next 3 Years  they suggest: [3]

• Patients:
  • Objective 3:
    • To increase the information we provide to help patients make better informed judgments about their treatment
  • Over the next three years we will do the following to meet this objective:
    • improve our online register and website so that patients can find out more information about their dental professional, including how to locate a specialist.
    • explore the development of quality metrics in dentistry so that patients are clear about the quality of the care that they can expect to receive.
    • produce a range of guidance for patients and their carers about what they can expect from a visit to a dental professional and what questions they could ask. We will tailor this guidance to the type of treatment and the setting where care is provided.

Now if you thought the CQC slid under the radar of professional alertness, or that the GDC being reorganised to emaciate the dental involvement by having a Lay majority and non dental ‘appointed ‘ Chairman was one you really should have seen coming, I urge the assembled throng to finally take this one seriously

The GDC are expanding into the quality of YOUR care

It’s not the only area the GDC plan to expand.  They even plan to expand the role of the Dental Complaints Service.  [3]

They are on record as wanting to advertise again because the numbers of complaints are dropping!!

Yes, you heard right.  Oh, and they see the NHS as a major partner, not as the creator of the UDA nightmare that drives people to the GDC in the first place! [3]

The awakening of the sleeping… Giant?

However, there is a faint sense that the BDA might, possibly, finally, be awakening to the possibility of a long and hard fight against Government sponsored attacks on the profession. We are of course in good company with our medical colleagues.

If Press Releases are the tip of the “what’s going on behind the scenes” iceberg, perhaps all is better that we had thought?

If you are a BDA Member – phone them and find out what their plans are.

If you are an FGDP member, phone them too!

You, on your own, can do little. Only as a united front can we even remotely stand our ground.

Or are we going to sleepwalk into yet another costly restriction upon our activity ?

Search And Rescue? [SAR]

As if all that is not enough, in a separate move reminiscent of Cold War Eastern Europe, the GDC are under fire for retaining data on all public discussion about its efficiencies, filing such data against the name of the registrant. [4] 

There has been an eye opening thread on GDPUK [no doubt all carefully annotated and filed by the GDCs very own MI5 trained clerks].

If you have not made your Subject Access Request to the GDC you are most definitely urged so to do. 

Do you know what data they hold about YOU?  
Do you know the justification? 
Give it some thought.

How Snoopy laughed!  ARF ARF!

It's that time of the year again. The GDC are now consulting on next year’s ARF.  After 37 pages of "transparency", it was hard to remember that they were proposing ‘no change’. Still, I always like to see out money being used wisely.[5] [6] [7]

The new NHS Contract is dragging on [as predicted] and there is a sense that the current financial crisis surrounding NHS Trusts generally must at some point trickle down into the provision of dental care. Cuts have to be in the shadows, even if they are not overt.

So all in all, a delightful Indian Summer of calm?  I rather think not!

No Sir.  The storms are brewing and I suggest that you had better batten down the hatches.

Far from clipping its wings, the GDC is very much in an expansionist frame of mind and YOU ARE PAYING FOR IT.

And when the Government pay you LESS through the new contract to do MORE, we will all pay, sadly, in so many ways.

And who will be the ultimate loser? The poor patient. Your patient. My patient. And perhaps all those who are not patients.

Perhaps now is the time for the profession to start uniting in some way? 

I mean, properly uniting

What shall we call this association of like-minded professionals?

[1] https://www.bda.org/news-centre/press-releases/Pages/Junior-dentists-balloted-on-industrial-action.aspx

[2] https://www.bda.org/news-centre/press-releases/Pages/GDC-attempting-to-extend-remit-at-expense-of-registrants.aspx

[3] http://gdc-uk.org/GDCcalendar/Consultations/Documents/Draft%20Corporate%20Strategy%202016-2019.pdf

[4] https://www.gdpuk.com/forum/gdpuk-forum/what-does-the-gdc-know-about-you-time-to-find-out-20365#p223009

[5] http://www.gdc-uk.org/GDCcalendar/Consultations/Documents/ARF%20level%20consultation%202016.pdf

[6] http://www.gdc-uk.org/GDCcalendar/Consultations/Documents/ARF%20level%20consultation%202016%20-%20supplementary%20forecasting%20information.pdf

[7] http://www.gdc-uk.org/GDCcalendar/Consultations/Documents/2016%20ARF%20consultation%20FAQS.pdf

It will be refreshing to know that when you visit Systems for Dentists on stand J175 at the BDIA showcase this year, there will be help at hand to ensure you’ll get all the information you need on the practise management software front to help you make a real and sustainable long term difference to your bottom line.

And it’s encouraging, against a background of tough economic times, that growing numbers of UK Dental Practices are now recognising the benefits of taking the plunge.

And at the BDIA showcase this year, making that vital step change to opt for a proven dental practise management system and support in order to change the face of your practice management and operations for the better is easy, just speak to any one of the Systems for Dentists team at stand J175!

And it’s no surprise that given such solid industry knowledge and expertise, founded by a dentist in the 1980’s, that they are fast becoming the preferred partner of choice for many practises looking to drive up efficiencies and revolutionise dental practice management in a strategic move to get ahead of your game in 2015.

Driven by a clear and deep understanding of what Dental Practices need from a leading edge intuitive practice management system, it’s easy to see why their development insight, achieved over nearly thirty years is tempting more and more dentists to make the switch to their system software as you look to engineer change for the long term and for commercial advancement.

Developed on an iterative cycle of research, build, test, launch and review and predicated against totally listening to what Dentists need from the support of a robust and innovative dental practice management system, V6 Dental Practice Management Software presents a truly integrated and agile solution.

Featuring cutting edge modules, functionality and systems benefits that range from go paperless solutions to 24/7 real time online appointment booking through the release of their latest development “Virtual Reception”, up to the minute management information, and data integrity and security and on-line system back up,  V6 offers everything needed to succeed operationally and streamline practice management.

And it’s the company’s commercial mantra that their valued clients should not only benefit from the very latest in leading edge software developments and unparalleled systems support, but that they will experience the very latest available in practise management innovations and technology advances, so they remain at the cusp of all that’s new in practice management.

And the beckon of a truly unique and supported user and customer experience is not the only reason why an increasing number of clients have already made the switch to Systems for Dentists in 2015.

The appeal of V6 Dental Practice Management software is made more attractive by the offer of a fully integrated package of features included within the price, coupled with time, money and efficiency savings end even the option to go paperless, making paper signatures almost a thing of the past with the companies introduction to their peripherals range of Wireless Signature Pads.

As a credible and trusted brand, and with almost thirty years’ experience in systems software development and a profound knowledge of the UK dental software market, dentists looking to make a positive change to their practice management in 2015 can be confident that your requirements will be perfectly met and understood by Systems for Dentists experienced and helpful team.

And beyond their exciting range of software solutions and feature rich product options is an unparalleled level of customer service second to none, ensuring exceptional levels of client support and making the process of transferring to a new system if required both effortless and operationally seamless.

Systems for Dentists offer a warm welcome to you to meet their team personally on Stand J175 at the BDIA showcase, 22-24 October 2015.

Alternatively contact:

Sam Clarke at Systems for Dentists on

Direct line: 0845 643 2828

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

This Blog is by Julia Furley, Barrister, at JFH Law.  

In 2015 the debate over the inequality of the sexes has raged. Ironically it hasn’t taken an earth shattering event to incite anger, instead it is the existence of what has been labelled “everyday sexism” that has tipped the balance; tolerance of inequality, particularly in the workplace, has finally run out.

Protests against perceived sexism have punctuated the news this year:

In June Sir Tim Hunt, the Nobel Award winning biochemist, was lambasted across the press and social media for his ill-conceived jokes about the pitfalls of women working in laboratories, made during a speech to the World Conference of Science Journalists in Seoul, South Korea. His comments caused international uproar, although the reaction to his comments divided both the scientific community and many commentators. Nevertheless they resulted in his resignation from UCL, the European Research Council and the Royal Society’s Biological Sciences Awards Committee.

The fire was stoked again on the 7^th September when barrister Charlotte Proudman publicly shamed a senior male solicitor, Alexander Carter-Silk, for complimenting her physical appearance following their connection on a business networking site. She was offended that Mr Carter-Silk felt it appropriate to comment on her “stunning profile picture”. Again, the reaction to the story divided opinion, with some suggesting that Ms Proudman should not have gone public and should learn to take a compliment with good grace, whereas many questioned why any woman should be subject to a physical appraisal on a site dedicated to business networking.

Just days later, a relatively unknown figure outside the legal profession made national headlines with his comments about equal representation of women in the upper echelons of the legal profession. Lord Sumption, a Supreme Court Judge, told the Evening Standard that rushing to achieve gender equality in the judiciary could have “appalling consequences” if achieved through positive discrimination, and suggested that society should wait a further 50 years for gender equality to be achieved naturally. Most controversially he blamed the lack of equal representation on “life style choices” made by women, who are “unwilling to tolerate long hours and poor working conditions”. At present just one of the twelve justices of the Supreme Court is a woman, there are no ethnic minorities, and just twenty one of the one hundred and six members of the Court of Appeal are women.

One can only assume that by lifestyle choices, he meant the inconvenience of giving birth. It should be born in mind that Lord Sumption’s rise to the top did not require years sitting as a judge in the lower courts like most, but instead direct promotion from the practicing bar. An honour never before afforded to a woman.

The outrage from women and men in the legal profession has been palpable, and unintentionally it seems, Lord Sumption has fuelled the debate regarding equality in the 21^st Century.

But sexism is not the sole domain of the scientific and legal communities; But sexism is not the sole domain of the scientific and legal communities; on the 1st October The Telegraph published an article, quoting Jyoti Shah, a consultant urological surgeon at Burton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, who had blogged about the sexist “gang culture” prevailing in operating theatres across the UK. She claims that the operating room was male dominated, and was often hostile to females; she cited incidents of being asked to make the tea for her male colleagues and, even more extreme, an incident of a female colleague being subjected to a sexual assault.   Figures revealed that women make up only 11% of the total number of surgical consultants in the UK.

And thus came, with perfect timing, the film Suffragette. The film received its UK premier on the 7thOctober, telling the story of the militant campaign in support of women’s voting rights in the UK one hundred years ago.

The film’s ensemble female cast, including Meryl Streep and Carey Mulligan, later highlighted the high levels of inequality in the arts, entertainment, sports and media industry, in the US, where in 2014 women working full time in the industry earned on average 85% of their male counterparts pay (although one should bear in mind this is quite good when compared with the average across all sectors in the US, where women earn on average 82.5%  of their male counterparts).

It seems that regardless of legislation designed to ensure equality in the work place, and numerous legal cases ensuring that women are paid the same as their male counterparts, there is still a mountain to climb for women in the workplace; particularly in their fight to reach the top of the Professions.

However, notable in the absence of any complaint was the dental profession.

What about equality in 2015: can dentistry hold its head high?  There have been no audible complaints from female dentists, and no exposés in the press of horribly sexist behaviour by senior dentists. Does this mean there is no underlying problem, or just that no one is yet willing to put their head above the parapet?

Since 2007 the GDC have published figures regarding registration in the UK of dental professionals.

In 2007, 35,419 dentists were registered with the GDC. There was quite a significant gender gap; with 61% (21,596) of those registered male and 39% (13,823) female. However, of the 2359 dentists added to the register that year, slightly more than 50% were women.

When looking at dental care professionals (nurses, therapists, hygienists and technicians), an even more significant gender divide opens up. In 2007, 20,219 of all registrants were women, with just 1,508 men registering.

Unfortunately, the GDC do not provide the gender breakdown of those registered on the specialist lists for 2007.

Fast forward to the latest 2015 figures, and how are the numbers looking?

In October 2015, 40,953 dentists were registered with the GDC, and a massive 66,009 dental care professionals.

The good news is that the numbers of female dentists are catching up with men; 53% (21,775) being men and 47% (19,177) being women.

Dental care professionals have however gone even further the other way, with 91% (60,388) women and just 9% (5,711) men.

What does this tell us? In accordance with the numbers of women currently studying for their BDS degrees, the balance of male/female registered dentists is likely to be equal, if not tipping marginally in favour of women over the next 10 years.

What it does not assist us with is how well those women perform in the profession overall, how many achieve senior roles in hospitals and how many become NHS contract holders or practice owners.

Anecdotal evidence tends to suggest that women are quite positive about the profession, finding that the flexibility of associate positions can work well with child care responsibilities; which still tend to fall to women to resolve.

Perhaps more worrying is the male/female ratio of dental care professionals. The vast majority of dental nurses in the UK are women; reflecting the general breakdown for the “caring” occupations such as medical nursing, carers and nursery education. The reason it is worrying is that dental nursing remains relatively low paid and insecure, with many nurses being employed on the now notorious “zero-hour contracts”. The upshot is that women find themselves undertaking work that men would traditionally not be willing to do, largely due to the pay and conditions associated with it. Again anecdotally, there also appears to be reluctance on the behalf of dentists to employ male nurses, as there is an expectation from the patient that nurses will be women.

For dentists, things take a negative turn when one considers the gender of specialists. The GDC have provided statistics in relation to the specialist lists for October 2015, which show that the divide opens up quite dramatically.

Looking at the most “popular” specialisms; orthodontics, endodontics, periodontics, restorative dentistry, oral surgery and prosthodontics there is a significant gender divide:

Of 1373 orthodontists, 52% (720) are men and 48% (653) are women.

Of 277 endodontists, 77% (212) were men and 23% (65) are women.

Of 368 periodontists, 67% (247) are men and 33% (121) are women.

Of 317 restorative dentists, 76% (240) are men and 24% (77) are women.

Of 754 oral surgeons, 72% (544) are men and 28% (210) (are women.

Of 450 prosthodontists 78% (349) are men 22% (101) are women.

Of the 13 specialities, only in dental public health (55 v 62 registrants), oral microbiology (3 v 5 registrants), paediatric dentistry (62 v 182 registrants) and special care dentistry (104 v 218 registrants) did women outnumber the men. All, dare I say it, the more typically “caring” side of the profession.

So why are women so woefully underrepresented in the specialities? One argument again relates to “lifestyle choices”. At a stage in their profession where postgraduate training may appeal to some, many women will also be considering starting a family and will not have either the time or resources available to pursue a speciality. However there is also the question of the decision makers at the competitive entry stage of postgraduate training. Very few “heads of department” positions are currently held by women; could this be affecting the way in which recruitment is undertaken?

Whatever the reason, dentistry like all other professions must give careful consideration as to how we can ensure true equality within our professions. It can no longer be acceptable to suggest that any woman must choose between having children and fulfilling her career potential. More should be done by the Universities, the GDC and the RCS to ensure that women are actively encouraged to undertaken postgraduate training, and that facilities, such as funded crèches on site,  are made available to all those, men and women, who have child care responsibilities.

The author, Julia Furley, is a barrister and partner at JFH Law. Julia has a special interest in dentistry, and currently advises both dental practices and individual dentists on both legal and regulatory obligations.

JFH Law LLP Tel: 020 7388 1658 7b Bayham Street, London, NW1 0EY DX 57064 Camden Town www.jfhlaw.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @jfhlaw

Medisafe invites you to join us at the BDIA Dental Showcase on Euronda stand L75.

The E9 Recorder autoclave achieves exceptional levels of sterilization combining minimum noise and ultra-low consumptions. All 5 types of “B” class cycles conform to EN13060 requirements, and utilise devices such as a Dirt Control System and an Air Water Separator, giving an efficient result every time and extending the life of the unit.

With its unique design and luminous progress bar in the handle, the user is able to check the status of the cycle at a glance, making the E9 Recorder extremely easy to use.

Visit stand, L75 to see new exciting products in accordance with HTM 01-05

www.medisafeinternational.com

In my role as Sales Manager at GDPUK, I often get asked what kind of campaign works well on the website and I am always happy to give a few suggestions which I hope helps the client and gives them a few ideas to take away and ponder.

Below are a few bullet points of the suggestions that have come to mind in recent times. Please feel free to add to the suggestions.

The idea behind the list below is that it hopefully gets the client creating an interesting campaign that then gets them a return on their investment and builds a long-term business relationship with our publication.

Our users do notice the adverts but it is upto the advertiser to catch their attention enough that they become fully engaged with the message. The fact that a banner gets shown thousands of times in a month is an obvious advantage of advertising online, your brand has an extra chance of getting noticed on a popular blog or forum thread.

So what are some simple, straightforward methods of getting noticed? A few brief ideas below.

• A good, simple, well designed landing page, that matches the campaign / campaigns. I have blogged about the importance of landing pages before. Read more on this link.

• Experiment with different designs / styles for the banner ads, see what is successful and look to implement banners in different colours and fonts.

• A competition or prize draw to get data for your business, as well as create some buzz around a new product or service.

• Supplement all advertising campaigns with PR that matches the advertising and is shared on social media. Run the same advertising / PR on your social media pages, so it increases brand awareness.

• A successful campaign has been with a company who have used client testimonials "I love using this xxx dental software because...." So showing that fellow dentists use the product and it works for them, creates a positive message.

• A social media campaign that includes advertising on dental websites but run in tandem with social media. For example an equipment manufacturer could collate photos of dentists using the handpieces in their surgeries etc. Create a pinterest style collage.

If you would like to discuss any of the brief suggestions above, we will be attending the BDIA Showcase at the NEC in Birmingham. We can be found on stand F215. All my contact details are below.

Our new media pack for 2016 is also now available for download. It is available here and if you click the image below.

Thanks for reading and hopefully see you in a few days. Cheers.

Winchester based Janice Charlton has joined cost effective and technology embracing plan provider – Patient Plan Direct, heading up the business development team in the South of the UK. Janice brings to Patient Plan Direct a wealth of experience specifically in the dental plan market and strengthens the plan provider’s overall proposition as the company continues to experience significant growth.

Following an initial career on the clinical and practice management side of dentistry, Janice moved to the trade side of the industry in the early 90’s and has worked in the dental plan market specifically for over 17 years. Janice has supported hundreds of dentists and their teams in introducing and developing successful dental plans; whether that’s offering plan membership alongside private fee-per-item, transferring an existing base of plan patients from another plan provider or indeed taking steps to offer private dental plans as an alternative to the NHS.

Simon Reynolds, commercial director of Patient Plan Direct explains; “As we continue to evolve and build on our strong reputation as the low cost/first-class support plan provider, Janice brings to the mix a unrivalled level of experience and knowledge that will benefit the practices we already work with in further developing and growing their respective dental plans, as well as other practices looking to take advantage of working with Patient Plan Direct and maximising the profitability of their dental plan.”

Janice Charlton added; “I was attracted to joining the Patient Plan Direct team after taking the time to understand more about their service proposition and technology. Patient Plan Direct’s streamlined, fully practice branded and web based approach to dental plan administration along with the support and advice that is delivered for £1 per patient per month is the right fit for so many practices both clinically, financially and operationally.

“I’m really looking forward to spreading the word and letting more practices take advantage of Patient Plan Direct whatever their objective; transferring from another plan provider to make significant cost savings, launching a plan for the first time or making a move away from the NHS.”

Patient Plan Direct is a dental plan provider now working with over 300 practices across the UK that is recognised for its cost effective approach to dental plan administration and support as well as its innovative web-based technology, continually developed with the future of dentistry in mind. 

Web: www.patientplandirect.co.uk

Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.   or  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tel: 08448486888

Discover the latest in practice furniture and design at BDIA Dental Showcase

Whether you want to completely refurbish your practice or are looking for specific fixtures or fittings, there really is only one place to compare your options and to take advantage of some fantastic deals.

BDIA Dental Showcase is the UK’s premier dental trade show and on the 22-24 October over 350 exhibitors, along with over 10,000 dental professionals, will be converging on the NEC in Birmingham.  It’s also home to a whole range of mini lectures, on-stand presentations and special events.

Among those present will be the experienced team from A-dec Dental UK who will be on Stand M65 to share their experience in the design of dependable, ergonomic and stylish dental equipment.  With a range of dental stools, chairs lights and cabinets, the range has something for every clinical need.  They can also design your surgery layout and have the units installed by skilled and accredited engineers, all backed by excellent support and customer service whenever it is needed.

On Stand J115, Belmont will be challenging dental professionals to think about the way they work and how their treatment centre facilitates that process.  Belmont's 'Below-the-Patient' delivery systems have been designed with the aim to increase efficiency of space, energy and time.  In addition, delegates will be able to learn about the state-of-the-art equipment and the dedicated design-and-build service offered by Clark Dental (Stand G195).  Their vast catalogue includes dental units, chairs, radiography equipment and much more that help to create a modern, successful dental practice. 

To make your visit even more worthwhile, most exhibitors will also be offering exclusive show savings and incentives.  For example, Heka Dental (Stand G175) are offering discounts of up to £2000 on their UNIC and UnicLine Treatment Centres, which are available with a warranty of up to 5 years.  And as one of the world’s largest manufacturers of dental equipment, Midmark (Stand L135) will be featuring a range of exclusive promotions tailored to suit every type of budget.

Are you sitting comfortably?

Back degeneration, shoulder tension and a whole range of ailments can be attributed to poor posture and can be referred to as sitting disorders.  These are an increasing issue for society as a whole and the dental profession in particular.  As well as exhibiting, Salli Systems (Stand J220) a leading manufacturer of saddle chairs, will be hosting a special mini lecture, Ergonomic sitting in dental practice.  Presented by Sari Hintikka-Varis, this presentation looks at how you can introduce the concept of ‘sitting health’ into your practice.

Veli-Jussi Jalkanen, chairman of the board, Salli Systems comments, “Everyone in the dental profession is potentially affected by such disorders.  It’s vital that workplace health and posture is considered for every member of the team.  Exhibiting and speaking at BDIA Dental Showcase is a fantastic opportunity to spread this important message.”

This theme is continued by Score (Stand A80) who believe that the use of saddle chairs is a positive contribution to the physical health of dentists and dental nurses.  You are invited to the stand to try their chairs and to experience the unique Score Balance technique that helps the saddle swing smoothly.

This is just a small sample of the exciting innovations you can see and experience at BDIA Dental Showcase.  If you’ve not registered for your free tickets yet, just go to www.dentalshowcase.com.  Check out the website for full details of exhibitors and mini lectures, and you can also download the new Showcase app for latest updates and to help make the most of your visit.

For those of you looking to introduce cutting-edge solutions to your practice, the wait is over.

Carestream Dental will be demonstrating the very latest digital imaging products and practice management software at the BDIA Dental Showcase this year.

The CS 8100 3D is a fine example of the innovation on offer, bringing the power of 3D imaging within the reach of every general dental practice. Delivering images of outstanding clarity with a simple and smooth image capture process, the CS 8100 3D will significantly enhance your diagnostic and treatment planning processes.

Also on display will be the latest CS R4+ practice management software, featuring the exciting real-time data benefits of Springboard. In addition, you’ll be able to find out more about leading products such as the new CS 7200 phosphor imaging plate system and popular CS Solutions.

Make sure you don’t miss out and visit the team from Carestream Dental on stand G15 at the BDIA Dental Showcase 2015.

For more information please contact Carestream Dental on

0800 169 9692 or visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

For all the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter @CarestreamDentl and Facebook 

"Squamous papilloma -- very low mag" by Nephron - Own work. Licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 via Commons.

We are proud to say that we will be exhibiting at Dental Showcase next week from Thursday 22nd to Saturday 24th.

The decision to attend was made at short notice so because of that we will be using the space as a meeting point for the GDPUK community. There will be plenty of seats for people to meet, talk and chat all things dentistry, so we look forward to seeing you there. All are welcome on F215.

GDPUK has thrived over the years because it has let dentists from all around the UK discuss issues or problems in a secure environment, without the public looking in. Many lifetime friendships have been formed, plus of course plenty of healthy debate, outrage and mischief created. By not exhibiting in the traditional sense, we think our exhibition stand, will be perfect for members of the dental community to catch up, reminisce or do some business…. Hopefully one or two new friendships will also be formed as well :)

We Look forward to seeing the whole dental community at Showcase, it is always a great event, one that is worthy of everyone's support. See you all next week.

If you would like to meet up with the GDPUK team at Showcase, please get in This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

In this blog we summarise some important changes in UK legislation, which may have an impact on you and your Practice.

From 1^st October 2015 the following legal changes have come into force:

·         The National Minimum Wage: this will increase from £6.50 to £6.70 for those over 21 years of age; for employees who are aged 18 to 21 the rate will increase from £5.13 to £5.50; Employees under 18 will see an increase in their hourly rate from £3.79 to £3.87; and finally the apprentice rate will increase from £2.73 to £3.30. In relation to apprentices, please note that this rate only applies if the apprentice is under 19 years of age or in their first year of apprenticeship. This means that salaries and all other associated benefits, such as holiday and sick pay must be amended from this date. Failure to do so could result in a claim by an employee for unauthorised deduction from wages;

·         The Consumer Rights Act 2015: the Act aims to consolidate existing UK consumer legislation but will also introduce new provisions relating to statutory remedies for defective goods and services. See below for our full analysis on how the changes will effect dentists;

·         Businesses, including Partnerships, with a turnover of £36 million will be required to publish a slavery and human trafficking statement every year. Whilst this will not directly affect small to medium sizes businesses, we consider there may be an indirect effect on them. Our detailed analysis of the requirements can be found in JFH Law's September 2015 E-Alert;

·         The right for Sikhs to wear a turban instead of a safety helmet will be extended to all work places, with some exceptions applying in relation to military and emergency services. Prior to these changes, Sikhs were exempt from wearing head protection in the construction industry but, because of legal loophole, they were not in less dangerous occupations such as factories. This meant Sikhs could face disciplinary action or dismissal for refusing to wear a safety helmet. In terms of medical treatments, there is no reason why a turban cannot be worn, if covered by a surgical head cover in the normal way it poses no health and safety risk.

Consumer Rights Act 2015

The Consumer Rights Act 2015 (CRA) aims to consolidate existing legislation in relation to consumer rights, whilst introducing new provisions which will come into force from 1^st October 2015. The key reforms are to improve consumer rights and remedies in respect of goods, services and consumer notices, but also to stop the inclusion of unfair terms in consumer contracts.

Under new consumer rights legislation a “trader” is defined as a person acting for purposes relating to their trade, business or profession; whether personally or through others acting in their name. This will include dentists, and their support staff, who provide treatments to a patient. Patients will therefore be deemed “consumers”. As such, patients have ‘consumer rights’ when they enter into an agreement with their dentist.

The following terms are implied into that contract:

1. That the services will be provided with reasonable skill and care;
2. The services will be performed in line with the information provided about the service and in line with information provided about the dentist;
3. That a reasonable price will be paid for the service.
4. That the services will be performed in a reasonable time.

This is broadly similar to the position on consumer rights prior to the CRA.

However, important changes relate to the provision of information to consumers.   Any information said to or written down for the patient, and which the patient relies on when entering into the contract, will be contractually binding; even if it is not in any contract signed by the parties.

Dentists will therefore need to be increasingly careful when a) agreeing timescales to provide treatment, and b) in how they express the likely outcomes of any treatment. Of course it is always advisable to prepare a clear written treatment plan for all patients, but dentists also now need to ensure that conversations had between reception staff, practice managers and treatment coordinators are all properly recorded and documented. If in doubt, make a note and follow up sales consultations with an email or letter summarising what has been said as these discussions are likely to form part of any contract if patients rely upon them.

JFH Law will keep these changes under review and will endeavour to advice on how these changes will work in practice in both the dental and medical professions.

The CRA also has a number of controls on excluding and restricting liability. Perhaps unsurprisingly, a term that excludes the trader’s liability for failure to perform a service with reasonable care and skill will not be binding. But also it will not be possible to attempt to restrict liability when timeframes are not met. Indeed the CRA makes provision for a reduction in price where work is not done within a reasonable time.

The CRA also provides new statutory remedies, namely the right to repeat performance and the right to a reduced price where work is not done to the correct standard or the agreed timeframe. The patient may also have remedies for breach of contract in the normal way, such as damages or specific performance.

Much of these changes will not dramatically alter the way in which dentists operate, as most already have in place excellent record keeping and performance levels in accordance with the requirements of their professional regulations. This is however another level of bureaucracy that dentists and their teams should be aware to avoid unnecessary litigation.

The Trading Standards Institute has produced this very helpful guide for traders in relation to contracts for the supply of services:

http://www.businesscompanion.info/en/quick-guides/services/the-supply-of-services-from-1-october-2015

* picture from Creative Commons

Mark Oborn will be available for one hour from 6pm on 13th October for a live Q&A session to answer your questions on how you can best market your practice to help grow your implant business.

Register now to have your questions answered in this live session where Mark will answer as many questions as he can within the hour.

Mark spent 25 years as a dental technician working exclusively within the high quality sector of the private market.  After 15 years of running his own laboratory he now also has a Masters Degree in Business Administration (MBA) majoring in marketing, innovation and creativity. Mark is also a Master Practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming and Master Practitioner of Hypnosis which further assists him in the skilful art of marketing communication.

In one of the largest transactions of the year to date, specialist dental adviser Christie + Co has sold six dental practices based in the East Midlands operating as Jordan Dental.

Jordan Dental is a progressive and well run group of predominantly NHS practices in excellent locations in Nottingham, Derby and Mansfield. The portfolio has been sold to {my}dentist, the largest corporate operator in the UK. The price was undisclosed.

Acting for the Jordan family, Christie + Co undertook a confidential marketing process from which {my}dentist was chosen as the preferred bidder. Clare Emery, Senior Associate at specialist solicitors Harrison Clark Rickerbys acted for the vendors.

Simon Hughes, Director and Head of Medical at Christie + Co comments: “I am delighted that Christie + Co was chosen to act for Dave Jordan in the sale of his business. He took advantage of strong market conditions and we were able to agree and conclude terms much more quickly than can often be the case with NHS practice sales. We wish {my}dentist the very best with their acquisition which gives them a significant and quality presence in the Nottingham dental sector.”

Dave Jordan of Jordan Dental comments: "It was a pleasure working with Christie & Co, the team showed great understanding of our needs and guided us through the difficult decision to sell something that we had worked so hard to build from scratch. I wish the team at {my}dentist every success in the future and trust that the group will continue to flourish as part of a much bigger operation."

Robert Pilling, Director of Acquisitions at {my}dentist adds: “I am delighted with the acquisition of the Jordan Dental Group and look forward to working with the practice teams over the coming months and year ahead. I would also like to extend my thanks to the Jordan family on choosing to sell to {my}dentist and also to the Christie + Co team who supported the acquisition process in a very professional manner.”

On Wednesday the 7th of October, GDPUK were invited to the launch of Denplan’s new TV advert which will air on our screens from Saturday night (10th Oct) and will run for approximately 3 weeks.

The campaign demonstrates Denplan’s huge investment and commitment to dentistry and the dental practices that they work with. An impressive £1.2 million has been spent on this campaign.

After a short consultation period, Denplan have used the advertising agency “brothers and sisters” to design the advert. Established since 2008, they have a number of famous campaigns in their portfolio including the Thierry Henry advert that aired this year which can be viewed below. Great advert, especially the part when he joins Alex Ferguson and Brian Kidd on the Old Trafford turf!

The Denplan advert

So what does the advert entail? It shows a young man taking a selfie on a day out but everytime he smiles, he snaps his horrendous teeth. These teeth are obviously quite extreme to get the message across and were created by the special effects team at Fangs Fx. (If you click on the link, it gives you a great idea of what they are capable of!) So the bloke starts coming up with ways to cover his teeth, eg putting his cat in front of his mouth or putting his hand in front of his teeth. The producers behind the advert have gone for something that will make the viewers smile and also gets people interacting, which seems to be the current trend for TV adverts, as exposure is limited with the way we all watch TV these days. Let us know what you think, when the advert airs over the weekend? Does it make you smile?

The aim

Denplan would like to increase brand awareness, plus of course help Denplan’s member practices stand out in the competitive market of attracting / retaining patients. Practices have been sent a large amount of marketing material that will be used to engage with patients, so in conjunction with the advert, it will provide excellent opportunities to talk to their patients and forms a part of their practice marketing.

Denplan conducted some selfie research which gives further credence to the campaign. A YouGov survey revealed that a staggering 5.6 million selfies are taken in an average day by adults online which equates to an incredible 2 billion plus per year!  Three quarters (74%) of adults have worried about how their teeth look in photographs and a third of adults (33%) have smiled but purposely not shown their teeth due to being embarrassed by them, so selfies and smiles was an easy place for Denplan to focus their efforts. 

The Impact

So from a dental perspective, what impact will this bring on UK Dentistry? A few thoughts to consider:-

1. Obviously there will be a huge impact for Denplan dental practices but will other dental plan providers also receive a boost? I believe it gets people thinking about their teeth and their dentist, so its a positive piece of marketing for all dental practices.

2. It is fantastic to move away from traditional tv dental advertising and instead Denplan have embraced a modern and fresh approach…. Everyone at the event agreed that this was a brave move and the small crowd were certainly positive about the message that Denplan are hoping to achieve.

3. The use of social media and a hashtag #doitforyourselfie taps nicely into a younger, celebrity obsessed crowd but if it gets the public visiting the dentist on a more frequent basis and talking about dentistry in a positive light, then surely this is a good thing? Dr Roger Matthews (Chief Dental Officer) of Denplan mentioned that motivation is key with patients and he believes that running this campaign could be a great way of motivating patients to visit their dentist on a regular basis and that is obviously the overall aim of the campaign.

4. Dentists are often negatively portrayed in the media but I believe it is refreshing to see a slightly humorous take on the Dental world but with a positive message that people in Britain our proud of their smiles and possibly the work dentists have done on their teeth? This will hopefully be demonstrated over the next few days, as the public share their selfies on www.doitforyourselfie.co.uk. Already a number of selfies have been uploaded!

Unfortunately I can't provide a copy of the advert just yet but I will update this blog with the advert once it has had its premiere. Over the next few days we will be keeping a close eye on the microsite, to see whether it captures the public imagination and the general reaction from the dental community on social media. We certainly hope it does capture the imagination and as stated previously, it achieves the positive message that Denplan are striving for. Please let us know what you think and how the advert will be received?

** Blog now updated**

The advert is due to be shown at 15:28 on ITV1 on Saturday afternoon.

#doitforyourselfie

www.doitforyourselfie.co.uk

Denplan has today announced that it will be running a high-profile national TV advertising campaign throughout October.  The ad has been produced by one of the UK’s leading creative agencies, Brothers and Sisters.  They successfully demonstrated a unique and creative approach to answer Denplan’s brief by developing an innovative strategy connecting the importance of good oral health and visiting a dentist with the current social phenomenon of the “selfie culture”.  

The first airing of the TV ad will be on primetime television during the Scotland v Samoa Rugby World Cup match on the afternoon of Saturday 10^th October and it will be aired for three weeks on a host of popular channels, including ITV, Channel 4, Sky and Channel 5. 

The aim of the ad is to capitalise on the unique strength of the Denplan consumer brand which will work in partnership with Denplan’s member practices own brands to help them stand out in a competitive market. The ad will provide dentists with the ideal opportunity to talk to their patients about the benefits of joining Denplan. The ad has also been created to help Denplan engage with a larger audience and build affinity with more consumers, alerting them to the importance of loving their teeth and looking after their oral health and encouraging them to find and talk to a Denplan dentist.

Richard Ward, Head of Marketing at Denplan commented: “The ad has moved away from the typical clinical or educational advertisements that could be for any number of dental products. Instead, viewers will see a memorable, impactful ad using humour to engage them.  The ad plays on todays’ selfie-obsessed culture by using humour to dramatise what happens when people lack confidence about their teeth whilst taking a selfie.  There is also a fun interactive element with the incorporation of a hashtag (#doitforyourselfie) encouraging people to generate and post their own selfie via Twitter, Instagram. Facebook or via www.doitforyourselfie.co.uk.”

Denplan conducted some selfie research which gives further credence to the campaign. The YouGov survey revealed that a staggering 5.6 million selfies are taken in an average day by adults online which equates to an incredible 2 billion plus per year!  Three quarters (74%) of adults have worried about how their teeth look in photographs and a third of adults (33%) have smiled but purposely not shown their teeth due to being embarrassed by them*.

Richard Ward continued: “We want everyone to feel proud of their smile, so the TV ad highlights the importance of preventive care and encourages patients to seek advice from a Denplan dentist. We’ve also produced a lot of supporting collateral for our member dentists and their practices to use, to support this nationwide campaign so that it becomes a real talking point with both their new and existing patients. 

“All practices have been sent a #doitforyourselfie pack which contains a range of marketing tools to help practices make the most of the campaign, including some eye catching background posters and a selfie stick so that practice teams can encourage patients to take a “post check-up selfie” and enter  the #doitforyourselfie competition. There are also post check-up selfie stickers to give to participating patients.” 

Denplan’s Chief Dental Officer Roger Matthews has also been involved in advising on the campaign and says: “Research has shown that using humour to emotionally engage with people creates more impact and recall than non-humorous adverts, so we were confident that the humorous approach was the right way forward for Denplan’s dental ad. That said, this meant it was vitally important to consult dentists in the making of the ad, especially when we were working on producing the tooth and gum prosthetics.

“We wanted to ensure the ad remained sensitive to real dental conditions that are no fault of the patient – such as chipped or misaligned teeth - but at the same time we needed to convey a positive feeling towards the importance of visiting the dentist regularly and having a good oral health routine to prevent problems before they start.  Without paying adequate attention to your teeth and oral health, it’s possible that people’s teeth may not always look or feel good, which can impact confidence.”

As one of the UK’s leading providers of corporate dental plans, with more than 1,900 schemes covering over 190,000 employees, Denplan is also encouraging companies to take note of the campaign and use the opportunity to raise awareness and educate employees about the importance of good oral health. Promotional marketing packs containing a double-sided selfie zone poster have also being sent to Denplan’s corporate clients with employees also eligible to enter the #doitforyourselfie competition.

Simplyhealth who bought Denplan in 2011, has invested £1.2 million into the project, making it Denplan’s biggest advertising campaign to date. The Denplan ad supports Simplyhealth’s long term everyday health strategy – of which Denplan and dentistry is a key part. 

www.doitforyourselfie.co.uk

#doitforyourselfie

References

*Source: Online YouGov Survey for Denplan. Survey was carried out online with 2,077 UK adults. The figures have been weighted are representative of all UK adults (aged 18+).

Forward thinking Dental Practices in the UK looking to simulate an “open all hours” reception service to their patients through clever advancements in practice management system technologies will now be able to achieve their ambition.

Thanks to a revolutionary approach and the latest developments from the pioneering software development team at Systems for Dentists, 24/7, 365 days a year access for patients is now a practical reality.

Made possible by bringing to market e-based development solutions as an extension of their existing successful Dental Practice Management software services, Dental Practices in the UK who run V6 Practice Management from Systems for Dentists, or switch to the system in the future will be able to radically improve their accessibility in the dental market place to patients through Virtual Reception, offering the very latest in on line access and real time technologies.

And dental practices looking to adopt an open door approach through the new on line patient portal will be able to look forward to being accessible on line – 24/7, improving their patients’ experience, making cost savings, driving up profits and achieving even greater operational efficiencies.

Virtual Reception, as part of V6 Dental Practice Management System is set to open up a host of benefits for busy dental surgeries looking to take an innovative lead through the simplicity of open door reception access through the clever portal to patients in their care;

The attractiveness for dental receptions always being able to be “accessible” through the arrival of on-line booking functionality, with patients able to book, move, cancel and view their own appointment information for instance is just one feature sure to be a popular and welcome benefit where convenience and avoiding missed appointments is concerned for all.

Two way communication at the click of a button and instant self-service functionality means patients will be able to review consent forms, post-operative care and estimates, amongst a plethora of other hosted information. And with timely access to personal records, data and treatment images, as granted by the Practice, the new portal offers a more effective and open exchange between Practices and their patients leading to an enhanced customer experience.

Add to this patient’s ability to pay for treatment in an instant via an embedded secure payment gateway, reductions in practice administration, cost savings in resourcing and reductions in printing costs through forms being available for completion on line  and practitioners will be quick to see why “Virtual Reception” makes complete commercial sense.

And its not only dental practices, but the patients in their care who can also enjoy and look forward to a whole array of fantastic benefits;

Through the portal, patients will be able to gain access 24/7 to review and amend their own dental appointments on-line, synchronise these with electronic calendars, complete mandatory information on line instead of having to fill in time consuming paper work and forms at their surgery.

Other features mean they can also be amongst the first to review the latest marketing offers and event share tweets relating to their practice, depending on the range of functional enhancements their dental practice is offering through its portal interface.

And Managing Director of Systems for Dentists,  Ryszard Jurowski is absolutely delighted to be at the very forefront of the practise management development curve;

“Having listened to our customers very carefully, we were quick to identify and understand the critical importance of communication, driving efficiencies and bringing to market development solutions to meet the operational and commercial needs of UK Dentists.

The development of Virtual Reception is just one of the innovations we are delivering to ensure we stay at the touchpoint of our relationship with our client base and respond to opportunities and the demands of our marketplace”

“We are confident that the investments we are continuing to make and the potential that Virtual Reception offers to market will continue to act as a catalyst for growth and for shaping emerging future technologies in the UK dental market”

For further information  contact:

Sam Clarke at Systems for Dentists on

Direct line ; 0845 643 2828

Email; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Communication forms a huge part of dentistry, allowing practitioners to provide effective care to patients. From the initial encounter with new patients through to the final treatment, providing an empathetic, understanding and interactive service can reduce dental anxiety and heighten treatment adherence[1].

Successful communication is fundamental to good clinical practice, allowing people to inform, be informed and to exchange information effectively. This is crucial to understanding the patient’s reason for attendance, their medical history, to explain treatment needs, gain consent and provide appropriate preventative advice[2].

There are three main elements of communication: words, tone of voice and body language. Verbal interaction accounts for just 7% of transmission, while tone of voice is estimated to convey 33% and non-verbal elements 60%². Practitioners must provide patients with clear, jargon-free messages, explaining problems and procedures effectively and precisely. Understanding the issue and treatment protocol can enhance compliance, as well as minimise the risk of complaints².

Research has shown that there is often a substantial gap between patients’ expectations and dentists’ understanding of those expectations[3]. It is suggested that dentists sometimes believe they know what patients should want, rather than finding out what they do want. According to one survey, problems with dissatisfaction were attributed to issues regarding the information patients receive and the ‘responsiveness’ of the practitioner[4]. In another, individuals complained of being excluded from treatment decision-making[5]. Bad experiences with previous dentists and perceptions based on media reports of dental malpractice can also contribute to a patient’s lack of trust³.

Clear and concise communication is therefore crucial to avoid any discrepancies or misunderstandings in the information exchange. This is particularly true with nervous patients, as anxiety can impact on the complex process of communication, making it more difficult to hear, retain and comprehend information. Utilising modern technology to provide images of the problem can help to enhance communication and relay messages to patients. It is also beneficial to provide written material or reports that can be taken away and read at home.

The CS 3500 intraoral scanner from Carestream Dental takes communication to a whole new level. Available as a stand-alone solution, or as part of the integrated CS Solutions CAD/CAM restoration portfolio, the CS 3500 provides practitioners with precise true colour 2D and 3D digital impressions. From realistic digital models to printable reports, the CS 3500 teamed with CS Model software makes it easy to communicate and share information with patients.

Relaying information clearly and effectively enhances understanding, treatment adherence and the overall patient experience. Utilising the latest in innovative technology helps make patients feel more involved in their treatment and provides an effective means to convey information, even when patients are suffering from dental anxiety.

For more information please contact Carestream Dental on

0800 169 9692 or visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

For all the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter @CarestreamDentl and Facebook

The Dental Technology Showcase (DTS) is well established as the event of the year for dental technicians, clinical dental technicians and lab owners. The 2015 show welcomed more than 1,500 professionals through the door and so it remains the best-attended event in the UK, with 84% of delegates rating the show as excellent or good[1].

Highlights of 2015

• 95% of delegates discovered new products and services and / or suppliers among the extensive exhibition.
• 47% of delegates made purchases while at the show.
• More than half of those in attendance were interested in CAD/CAM solutions.

New for 2015, the CAD/CAM Theatre proved highly popular, with leading experts presenting inspirational cases, fresh ideas and cutting-edge technologies. Also introduced for the first time was Launchpad UK, introducing the latest products, materials and equipment on the UK market following global launches at IDS 2015 only a few months previous.

Further highlights of the event included the Association of Dental Implantology’s (ADI) Implant Theatre and copious networking and socialising opportunities. The Lecture Theatre also hosted a selection of world-class speakers, plus there were opportunities to witness live demonstrations in the Practical Theatre and then get hands-on with new materials in the workshops.

What’s New for 2016?

As the Dental Laboratories Association’s flagship event, DTS has long received support from various leading dental organisations and societies. In 2016, we are delighted to welcome two brand new educational features run in conjunction with the Orthodontic Technologists Association (OTA) and the British Association of Clinical Dental Technology (BACDT).

Orthodontic Technician’s Seminar Stream – Supported by the OTA

This brand new seminar stream will offer a combination of exciting lectures and workshops suitable for both experienced orthodontic technicians and those who work in other fields and are interested in finding out more. A range of topics will be discussed from cleft lip and palate care to multi-stranded wire retainers and positioning stent, orthodontic technology materials and poly(methyl methacrylate)- free appliances. Sessions will also be run by top names in the field, including:

• James Green, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust
• Andrea Johnson, Derby Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• Paul Mallett, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust
• Rye Mattick, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
• Edward Mapley, Cardiff Metropolitan University
• Daniel Shaw, Doncaster and Bassetlaw Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Paul Mallett, OTA Chairman, comments:

“The OTA is happy to be contributing to the educational programme at DTS 2016, where we will be presenting highly informative and relevant sessions for delegates to enjoy. DTS has been a great event in previous years, giving us, as the representative association for orthodontic technicians here in the UK, a valuable opportunity to engage with our fellow technicians and to continue to work as an education partner with DTS. We look forward to connecting with more orthodontic technicians during the next event.”

National CDT Conference – in partnership with the BACDT

Providing headline speakers, verifiable CPD and a professional trade show, the BACDT Annual Conference has always been a great event. By partnering with DTS 2016, the experience will be taken to a whole new level for all those in attendance. The conference will be open to all clinical dental technicians and dental professionals with an interest in the spectrum of topics explored.

Alan Forest, Director for Membership at the BACDT, says:

“DTS, co-located with The Dentistry Show, is the perfect venue to hold the BACDT Conference due to the mix of high profile speakers, great trade turn out and great networking opportunities.”

Don’t miss out

All the favouriteswill also return for 2016 including the CAD/CAM Theatre, ADI Implant Theatre and an array of stimulating lectures, live demonstrations and hands-on workshops. Up to 14 hours of vCPD will be achievable for every delegate and Steve Campbell RDT will be chairing the educational programme to ensure standards remain high. He comments:

“I believe this is the most important show in the UK for dental technicians and lab owners. I hope that we can make a real statement about the quality and passion of UK dental technology by showcasing some of the world class technicians we have working in the UK labs, that are now lecturing all over the world.”

The exhibition floor will also be the perfect place to source the very latest innovations, materials and products, with fantastic deals on offer and all the experts on hand to help.

So, for the chance to discover something new, develop your skills, expand your professional network and have a great two days, make sure you don’t miss DTS 2016!

DTS 2016 will be held on Friday 22^nd and Saturday 23^rd April 2016 at the NEC Birmingham, co-located with The Dentistry Show

For more information visit www.the-dts.co.uk, call 020 7348 5263 or email dts@closerstillmedia.com

The digital workflow is growing ever more powerful in the dental profession. In fact, we found that 95% of dentists who employ digital technologies enjoy a smoother workflow, 88% suggest any staff training expenses are perfectly acceptable, and more than 50% experience an increase in earnings. Perhaps most importantly, the majority of users also agree that the patient experience is enhanced.

At Carestream Dental, we understand the pressures on modern professionals and have invested heavily in research and product development to create effective solutions to the challenges you face every day. All our technologies are available on their own but work together seamlessly for a flexible and totally integrated workflow.

From the very beginning, our new CS Digitalizer enables you to quickly and easily evaluate your practice to establish your individual needs and discover the most suitable innovations for you. The Needs Assessment Survey will enable you to enter basic information about your practice and future goals, and then produce a full report with suggestions of relevant areas to consider in order to optimise and grow your business. Available on the website www.carestreamdental.com/digitalizer or from the App Store, this quick and convenient tool will show you exactly how your practice stands, offering the opportunity to see how others compare in your area.

Whether you are looking to increase your digital capabilities, or take your first steps towards a digital workflow, we provide a range of solutions backed up by expert advice and support. From the handheld CS 3500 intraoral scanner to the CS 7200 imaging plate system, our user-friendly technologies deliver outstanding image clarity for accurate diagnostics, with the flexibility to work in the way you prefer. The innovative CS 8100 3D imaging system even harnesses the power of 3D and brings it within every general practice’s reach, all the while limiting radiation dosage for a safer examination process for both patient and professional.  

Offering further benefits to you and your team the CS R4+ practice management software, featuring Springboard, operates in real-time data, giving you an up-to-the-minute analysis of your practice performance whenever required. Focusing on chair occupancy, treatment plan uptake, appointment confirmation and recare protocols, the programme highlights strengths and weaknesses in an instant so you can manage your business as efficiently as possible.

When utilised effectively, the digital workflow offers copious advantages for the modern dental practice. Every day systems are simplified and streamlined, with enhanced diagnostics, treatment planning and patient communications contributing to an overall superior patient service. At Carestream Dental, we will continue our commitment to you through our leading innovations and first-rate customer service, and we are always on hand should you need more information, advice or technical support. A move towards digital is often much easier and less costly than you would think – and the rewards can be mind-blowing.

For more information, contact Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

For all the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter @CarestreamDentl and Facebook

Time is running out to register for our Restorative Dental Practice MSc - to start this programme in January 2016, you must complete your application by 16 October 2015. Find out more>>

This part-time, four-year Master’s programme enhances students’ ability to provide high-quality and comprehensive restorative management for the majority of patients. Students are able to assess, plan and provide quality treatment at an advanced level, forming a sound foundation for the restoration or rehabilitation of a compromised dentition in their own clinical practice.

The programme is delivered through seminars, lectures and practical sessions in state-of-the-art skills laboratories, providing a highly supportive learning experience. Assessment is through practical, clinical and oral examinations including written papers, presentation of clinical cases and a dissertation.

Graduates use the qualification to improve their prospects of moving to better dental practices, setting up their own dental practices, progressing to full-time Master's programmes and Specialty Training, progressing to PhD level, and developing careers in teaching

Year One: two taught modules, 60 credits, exit with Postgraduate Certificate. There are 28 contact days in Year One, including a compulsory induction and enrolment day on 6 January 2016.

Years Two and Three: four taught modules, +60 credits, exit with Postgraduate Diploma. There are 12 contact days in each year.

Year Four: dissertation, +60 credits, exit with MSc. There is a short (three-to-four day) preparatory course at the beginning of Year Four.  Thereafter, students undertake a self-directed research project during Year Four.

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UCL Eastman Dental Institute is the largest postgraduate dental school in Europe and has a reputation as one of the world’s leading academic centres for dentistry. As part of UCL – London’s Global University – the Institute welcomes UK and international students.

With a focus on translational research, postgraduate education and training, the Institute offers a wide range of study opportunities – Master's degrees, specialty training, certificates, diplomas, research doctorates and CPD courses – from its twin sites in central London. Find out more on our website>>

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CPD Survey

Do you think CPD is valuable to you? Are you interested in having your say on CPD? Then you will be glad to know UCL Eastman is carrying out a nationwide survey to find out your views on the current state of CPD.

If you have an opinion and wish to complete the online survey visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/7YD9T9S.

UCL Eastman Dental Institute is the largest postgraduate dental school in Europe and has a reputation as one of the world’s leading academic centres for dentistry. As part of UCL – London’s Global University – the Institute welcomes UK and international students.

With a focus on translational research, postgraduate education and training, the Institute offers a wide range of study opportunities – Master's degrees, specialty training, certificates, diplomas, research doctorates and CPD courses – from its twin sites in central London.

To find out more about our upcoming courses – including Microscopy, Implants and Restorative short courses running between now and Christmas - visit our stand at E210 or our website: http://www.ucl.ac.uk/eastman

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CPD Survey

Do you think CPD is valuable to you? Are you interested in having your say on CPD? Then you will be glad to know UCL Eastman is carrying out a nationwide survey to find out your views on the current state of CPD.

If you have an opinion and wish to complete the online survey visit https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/7YD9T9S.

“We have a longstanding relationship with Wrights,” says Vishal Jasani, principal dentist at Malden Dental Care, New Malden.

“We currently use the service for 90% of our sundries and equipment ordering and have also worked with the team in the past when we refurbished three of our surgeries.

“Since the refurbishment, we have received outstanding aftercare from our representatives, Harvey Notts and Louise Bartlett. Any problems have always been rectified immediately, and they have both always been supportive and proactive.

“What’s more, they are both incredibly knowledgeable about equipment and materials, and they always strive to do the best job they possibly can for us. 

“The reason we joined Wrights in the first place, and continue with this arrangement, is not only down to the high standard of service, but also because they provide us with the best value for money, beating or at least matching competitors’ prices on the products that we order.

“I would definitely recommend Wrights to other practices, for both refurbishment and general use.”

To find out how you can get top products for the best prices and to work with a professional, friendly and dedicated team, contact Wrights now.

For more information contact Wrights on 0800668899 or visit www.wright-cottrell.co.uk

The T-Scan digital occlusal analyser from Clark Dental is one of the most innovative diagnostic products on the market. Unique in its ability to provide an accurate, time-scaled review of a patient’s bite force, the T-Scan is improving the way dental professionals diagnose and treat occlusal issues.

At this year’s BDIA Dental Showcase, Clark Dental is delighted to present the highly regarded Dr Thomas O’Connor discussing the revolutionary T-Scan in a number of enlightening lectures. Dr O’Connor is well-known for speaking on all aspects of aesthetic dentistry and understands the importance of occlusion in achieving top-quality results.

What’s more, the eminent Dr Ash Parmar will be taking to the Clark Dental Education Centre on stand G195 to speak about the T-Scan’s functional utility in-practice. A long-time advocate of the T-Scan, and a close friend of Clark Dental, Dr Parmar’s sessions are simply unmissable for anyone wanting to know more about better occlusal analysis.

With a reputation for bringing dental professionals the best products and equipment on the market, Clark Dental strives to educate as well as equip. Be sure to visit the stand to find out more. 

For more information contact Clark Dental on 01270 613750,
email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.clarkdentalsurgerydesign.co.uk

A staggering 95% of dental professionals (NHS Providers and Performers) working within the NHS who responded to the most recent  NHS Confidence Monitor have stated that they are less confident in the future of NHS dentistry than they were 12 months ago.

Over 300 NHS dental professionals completed the second NHS Confidence Monitor, a comprehensive industry survey conducted on behalf of Practice Plan, sharing their views about the future of NHS dentistry. The aim of this on-going survey, which will take place every six months, is to gain insight into the profession’s confidence levels in NHS dentistry over the coming months and provide a snapshot of the mood of the profession going forward.

The NHS Confidence Monitor also revealed that dentists are very worried about their own future, with 90% of respondents saying they are less confident about their career prospects within NHS dentistry going forward than they were a year ago.

Confidence levels are also at a shocking low in terms of dentists’ ability to offer their patients the right balance of treatment versus prevention in times to come under the NHS, with 85% of respondents expressing fears that the balance won't be right.

94% of respondents said they had lost confidence that practising dentistry within the NHS will offer an appropriate level of remuneration in the future, serving as a worrying statistic for the Government since this is suggestive of staffing shortages in times ahead if dental professionals choose to leave NHS practice.

It also seems that there is little confidence that dental teams will be able to work effectively within the NHS framework as time progresses, with 89% feeling less confident on this matter than they did in the previous 12 months.

Perception of patient satisfaction is also at a worrying low, with over three-quarters (77%) of respondents lacking confidence that patients will be happy with the outcome of attending an NHS dental practice in the future, when compared to 12 months ago.

Commenting on the results, Eddie Crouch, Vice Chair of the Birmingham Local Dental Committee, stated: ‘I think it’s worrying that so many people have become markedly more despondent since the last survey. I think it’s partly anticipatory and partly because the issue appears to be so low down the Government’s list.

‘It seems a sad state of affairs and we can only hope that results such as these will persuade the powers that be to look at the situation anew in consultation with representatives of the profession.’

Each NHS Confidence Monitor survey will be followed up with a forum of key opinion leaders, dentists and dental professionals to explore the results in greater depth and place them in context. The next forum is scheduled for October 2015, after which the group’s opinions on the survey results will be made available to the dental profession in the UK.

In the meantime, to see the full results or for further information on the NHS Confidence Monitor, please visit www.NHSDentistryInsights.co.uk.  

The Nobel Biocare Team Conference 2015 will be held on 6^th and 7^th November at The Brewery in London, offering a programme with a difference. The unique format will be deliver by more than 20 international celebrated Professionals, through  a combination of lectures, hands-on workshops and masterclasses.

Professor Sreenivas Koka, globally renowned for his expertise in implantology and prosthetics, will be presenting a masterclass alongside Professor Daniel van Steenberghe, entitled “Peri-implantitis: a tsunami waiting to happen? Facts and fallacy”, as well as a lecture session on “Prosthetic solutions for the edentulous patient: What, when and why?”

Professor Koka comments:

“This conference will celebrate how far we have come as a profession in the past couple of decades – the science and clinical experience we have developed is truly astounding. It will also highlight how much more there is yet to come.

“Historically, Nobel Biocare has been a major leader in the dental implant arena and this kind of programme will definitely keep it at the forefront. The conference will go back to basics, emphasising the science, education and research supporting the many products, materials and techniques used today. It’s a very exciting programme!”

For more information about the Nobel Biocare Team Conference, or to register, please visit www.nobelbiocare.com/uk2015, or call 0208 756 3300.

When Peter Instone and his colleagues were ready to sell their practice, they chose to work with Dental Elite. “We were happy with them in every way,” he says. “They were excellent; we had no problems.

“Being able to talk to the same person throughout the process was useful – they knew everything that was going on from start to finish. Any questions we raised, they were able to get back to us with answers.

“I would certainly recommend Dental Elite to others.”

With a team that is proud to have over a hundred years’ experience in the dental sector, Dental Elite is in the perfect position to assist professionals through the sale of their practice. They have a reputation for offering practical and pragmatic advice and approach each case with honesty and openness.

If you are looking to sell your dental practice and want guidance from the experts, look no further than Dental Elite – contact the team today!

For more information and to find out how Dental Elite can value
and assist your practice sale visit www.dentalelite.co.uk, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01788 545 900

With over 300 exhibitors, a plethora of on-stand presentations and demonstrations, dozens of mini lectures and lots of association events and networking opportunities, deciding how to spend your time at BDIA Dental Showcase might seem a daunting task. 

But help is at hand in the form of the new BDIA Dental Showcase mobile app.

You can search through the exhibitors and create a favourites list of those you want to visit to ensure you see all the latest equipment, technologies and products that can benefit you, your patients or your business.  There’s also the facility to plan a personalised itinerary of mini lectures and presentations, so you won’t miss any of the exciting sessions given by key industry speakers.

The app has lots of additional features to help you plan your schedule and really get the most from the show, including:

• Interactive floor plan to help you find your way around
• Regular updates of latest news, information and exhibitors
• Stay in touch with links to social media
• Available for iPhone, iPad and Android, plus a web version for Blackberry and Windows Phone

BDIA Dental Showcase is happening on 22-24 October at the NEC in Birmingham, so now’s the time to start planning your visit.  Download the app now to enhance your experience before, during and after the event.  It’s easy and it’s free – just go to www.dentalshowcase.com. 

Astek Innovations is an award winning manufacturer of dental products which are designed in the UK and distributed to over 60 countries. The product range reflects Astek’s core values of quality, value and performance.

With dental teams as their ultimate customers Astek Innovations strives to ensure they constantly take feedback and requests for products under the Astek brand. From the initial idea there is a rigorous process that follows.  Meticulous development and extensive testing by the product design engineers and experienced dentists, ensure that all of Astek’s products meet the highest levels of clinical performance demanded by modern dentists and they all meet or exceed the latest ISO and CE standards.

Astek Innovations’ range includes:

• The Pro-Tip Turbo, a disposable three in one syringe nozzle, a highly regarded advancement in the delivery of clean, dry air.  A double chamber design separates air and water and with a new design configuration the air is propelled at a greater velocity. With converters to fit a wide range of syringes the Pro Tip Turbo is a great addition to dental practices.

• The award winning InSafe safety syringe system provides complete protection from the beginning of the dental procedure through to the disposal of the needle. The specially designed syringe protects the needle at all times and its partnering sharps container removes the contaminated needle in complete safety. The inSafe system is fully compliant with EU & HSE Safer Sharps regulations

• Pro-Matrix is a disposable and versatile matrix band, which can be used with all restorative materials in all quadrants.

• The Alma range of Prosthetics Instruments which facilitates the production of highly accurate dentures.  Comprising the Alma Denture Gauge, Wax Tray System, Alginate Syringe, Bite Gauge and Bite Plane this highly acclaimed range helps the construction of accurate dentures. The range is used and recommended by leading Dentists, Dental Technicians and teaching schools.

• Pegasus Range of Consumables which includes Transform Heat Mouldable Impression Trays.  Made from a strong thermo-plastic Transform trays give excellent primary impressions and also address the challenges of taking impressions with improved morphology where unusual soft tissue, bone shape and tooth position exists. Other recent additions to the Pegasus range are the disposable Face Visor with a fully autoclavable frame and the autoclavable bib holder.

Astek Innovations are delighted to be exhibiting at BDIA Dental Showcase which gives them the opportunity to give demonstrations of their product range.

Visit us at BDIA Dental Showcase Stand K165

www.astekinnovations.co.uk

The Dentistry Show and DTS welcomed an amazing 7,908* dental professionals this year, which represented nearly a 13% increase from 2014! Visitors to the 2015 event described it as “A great team day out”, “Fantastic”, “Really enlightening” and “progressive and innovative”.

The Dentistry Show 2016 promises to build even further on this success, with yet more first-class learning and networking opportunities than ever before.

You can expect all your favourite features to return including two-day lecture programmes dedicated to each area of the profession, theatres exploring the very latest in each specialist field, world-class speakers and hours of verifiable CPD.

The extensive trade floor will also provide the perfect platform from which to source cutting-edge dental equipment, materials and products, with industry leading manufacturers and suppliers in attendance.

Held on Friday 22^nd and Saturday 23^rd of April 2016 at the Birmingham NEC, this is one event you don’t want to miss. If you only attend one dental show in 2016, make it The Dentistry Show and save the dates today!

The Dentistry Show and DTS 2016 will be held on Friday 22^nd and Saturday 23^rd April, NEC in Birmingham. For further details visit www.thedentistryshow.co.uk call 020 7348 5270 or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Ending 31^st October, the latest flyers from Wrights have countless special offers, deals and promotions available to you right now. With top products at your fingertips, you’re sure to find exactly what you are looking for. At such a steal you might even come away with more!

From ‘buy three get one free’ offers on numerous 3M ESPE products including Filtek Supreme XTE, Imprint 4 and Filtek Bulk Fill to 40% savings on the Cavitron THINsert from DENTSPLY and up to 37% savings on Kerr products such as SonicFill2 Refills, there are great offers available from your favourite brands.

Because Wrights understands your every need, this October there are also exclusive deals on dental pharmaceutical supplies including:

• Over 30% saving on Septoject Original single use dental needles
• Up to 40% saving on Xylonor Spray
• Over 40% saving on Endocal

For your flyer and a full list of offers, contact Wrights today.

For more information contact Wrights on 0800 66 88 99 or visit the easy to navigate website www.wright-cottrell.co.uk

Why Would Your Patients Want Your Mobile App?
 

When the developers of the dental mobile app first approached me this was the first thing I said to them. Let’s face it why on earth would anyone want to to got the trouble of downloading your mobile app?

First let me explain what a mobile app is. If you have a smart phone either Apple or Android, you will almost certainly have lots of apps on it. For instance to access the iTunes store, Google maps, etc. etc.

Apps are now the best way for all companies to communicate to their customers, but why would anyone want a dental mobile app?

The answer is you make it worth their while to download and use your mobile app!

Firstly you have to advertise the app, particularly in your practice. Patients can download the app simply by pointing their mobile phone at a QR code in your reception. But they need a reason to download it in the first place.

So here’s why they will not only download the app but use it.

Mobile app Loyalty Scheme

There is a built in loyalty facility on the app. Each time your patient comes into the practice they scan a QR code in reception and this puts a tick in a box for them. When they have a certain number of ticks on their app they get a reward from you, maybe an electric tooth brush or a free hygiene session of a bottle of wine, it can be anything. This feature not only guarantees that your patients continue to come and see you but they use the app every time they come to the practice. The app does all this for you automatically.

Mobile app Referral Feature
There is the most amazing referral feature on the mobile app. Did you know that the average Facebook user has between 50 and 100 friends on it? The apps referral feature will send a message to every one of their friends urging them to download the app. If just 100 of your patients do this for you, you’ll reach between 5,000 and 10,000 new potential patients.

But why  would the do this for you? Because you reward not only the referrer but also the person being referred and the app does all this for you. When one of your patients gets let’s say five of their friends to download your app, they are rewarded by you, when a person is referred, they get something off their first appointment, you win, your patient wins, the new patient wins.

You can’t buy advertising like the mobile app

Why because just think of this, if you advertise with Google or Facebook, the press or any other media it is just that “an advert”. Whereby when your patients send a referral to their friends this is a thousand times more powerful. Because it’s word of mouth advertising, but on an industrial scale.

It’s estimated that 50 of your patients sending our a referral to all their friends is worth £1,000 of Google advertising, and that app costs just £50.00 per month. A fraction of the cost.

So don’t hesitate you need to call me on 01767 626 398 or email me at enquiries[at]dentalmarketingexpert.co.uk  or visit the website www.dentalmarketingexpert.co.uk or visit our Facebook page

Have you been looking for a way to expand the level of treatment you can offer your patients? You can achieve this by speaking to the team from the IAS Academy on stand N205 at the BDIA Dental Showcase 2015.

The IAS Academy provides an educational pathway designed to give GDPs the necessary confidence and experience to offer alternative anterior alignment orthodontic solutions. From entry-level courses, to comprehensive advanced sessions, the IAS Academy’s training programme is suitable for GDPs with any level of orthodontic experience.

With training sessions led by some of the UK’s most renowned speakers, including Professor Ross Hobson, Dr. Tif Qureshi and Dr. Anoop Maini – among others – the IAS Academy can ensure an exemplary standard of teaching. And this support does not end after the training session is finished: through a dedicated online network, the IAS Academy promotes continuing learning and development, with all courses requiring the submission of at least two successful cases before full certification can be achieved.

For more information, be sure to drop by at the BDIA Showcase; we look forward to talking to you.

For more information on upcoming IAS Academy training courses, including the Inman Aligner,

please visit www.iasortho.com or call 0845 366 5477

Selling a dental practice can be stressful, especially when it comes to completing the CQC Registration Process. Since changes to the paperwork on 1st April 2015, it is more crucial than ever to ensure the form is populated correctly and accurately.

As a leading specialist in practice finance, sales and valuations, Dental Elite is dedicated to providing first class advice that helps simplify the process of selling your practice, referring the contract and deregistering as the owner.

For just a small fee, the majority of which is donated to charity, Dental Elite is offering a not-for-profit service for anyone requiring CQC application support.

Because Dental Elite understands what selling a practice means to you, it works alongside charities BDA Benevolent Fund and Bridge2Aid, investing its time and money back into the dental community.

Anyone already buying, selling or financing with Dental Elite will receive this service included as standard for free.

Contact the friendly, profession team at Dental Elite today and discover how it can help you with your sale and CQC application.

For more information visit www.dentalelite.co.uk, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 01788 545 900

The FCA is more than just the OFT with a new name . . .

by Martin Gilbert 

Offering credit to your patients used to be so simple. All you needed was a Consumer Credit Licence and that was it. When a patient wanted to spread the cost of the treatment, you forwarded an application to the lender, they sorted out the paperwork, you did the work and you got paid.

Then the credit crunch came along, and in the aftermath it was decreed that the Office of Fair Trading wasn’t the best organisation to supervise consumer credit (think about the unfettered antics of payday lenders and home reversion scheme providers) and responsibility was transferred to the Financial Conduct Authority.

And they are a different animal altogether. They started gently enough, by writing to all CCL holders and telling them that if they wanted to continue to be credit brokers, they just needed to register for Interim Permission.

Then all IP holders were notified of the Allocation Period in which they have to apply for Authorisation. The last ones finish in February 2016. Applying for authorisation (which for most dentists, who just need to act as Secondary Credit Brokers, will be for Limited Permission) is not too difficult, as long as you have the time and understand the terminology (who knew that ‘agreeing to carry on a regulated activity’ was itself a regulated activity, and one which you have to have).

So you complete the online application and pay the fee. The letter arrives (within their 6 month’s SLA) with your Authorisation, your Firm Reference Number and information about your ongoing obligations. You skim through it, and then file it.

But this is only the start of your relationship with the FCA.

Next you get an email telling you that a Return is due. So you phone the FCA Helpline, who tell you that you should have registered for GABRIEL. Which you didn’t bother with, because you hadn’t really read the letter, and the OFT never used to ask you for any returns, so it hadn’t occurred to you that the FCA would. (CCR008 is required quarterly, CCR007 is annual, and there are fines if you miss the deadlines).

Then you get an email telling you that your Periodic Fee is due. So you phone the FCA Helpline, who tell you that you should have registered for online invoicing. And when you do so, and find the invoice, you’ll see that you also have to pay a Money Service Advice Fee and a Financial Service Ombudsman Levy.

So then you think, I can’t be bothered with this, I’m going to cancel my authorisation. So you phone the FCA Helpline, who tell you that you should have registered for CONNECT (not the one you used for your original application, but the one that was mentioned in that letter) to enable you to make any changes to your standing data. And when you do eventually manage to login, you have to find your way through ‘Start a new application’ to get to the cancellation option.

If you’ve got more money than time, there are plenty of firms out there who’ve made a business out of managing the authorisation for you – typically charging £600 to submit your application and £25 a month for ongoing compliance.

Or you could become an Appointed Representative of a specialist such as Chrysalis Finance, who look after the compliance and the reporting, and provide you with a state of the art online portal to process applications simply and easily. So you can not only get on with giving your patients the best treatments, but you also make them affordable for them. 

Martin Gilbert, a chartered accountant,  is a Director of Chrysalis Finance.

Do you know how well your practice is performing right now? Do you need an easy but accurate way to measure your business performance?

The CS R4+ practice management software featuring Springboard has been designed specifically for this purpose. Provided by Carestream Dental, the innovative software utilises real-time data to deliver an up-to-the-minute representation of your business, whenever you need it.

Four key areas – chair occupancy, appointment confirmations, treatment plan acceptance and patient recare – are carefully monitored and the live data can be accessed at any time to establish exactly how the practice is doing. Immediately highlighting any problem-areas, the cutting-edge technology will help you implement changes when necessary and steer your business towards long-term success.

You can also enjoy outstanding on-going support from Carestream Dental – committed to eXceed, the team strive to deliver exceptional customer service every time.

To find out more about the exciting CS R4+ practice management software and Springboard, contact the experts at Carestream Dental today.

For more information, contact Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

For all the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter @CarestreamDentl and Facebook 

Bringing you a one-of-a-kind event this November, the Nobel Biocare Team Conference 2015 can’t be missed. This exciting event will present a totally unique learning opportunity for all members of the dental team.

Surrounded by like-minded professionals, there will be time for discussion, debate and networking, including a chance to broaden your existing knowledge and share in each other’s experiences. Along with a stunning but practical conference location and environment, you won’t find a programme quite like this anywhere else in the UK!

Delivering educational experiences on an unprecedented scale, this conference will present a truly outstanding speaker line-up, with more than 25 internationally leading professionals. You’ll be able to look back at what we have learnt since it all began with Torsten Jemt, before exploring the modern innovations such as the All-on-4® treatment concept with Wolfgang Bolz. Renowned for their expertise in prosthodontics, immediate implant placement and associated periodontal conditions, Daniel van Steenberghe, Sreenivas Koka, Joseph Kan and Rishi Patel will discuss everything from effective case selection to maximising aesthetic results.

Sharing tips from the very forefront of oral surgery, Ian Brook, Edmond Bedrossian, Carl Manhem and Isabella Rocchietta will look at various clinical techniques and case studies that are sure to inspire. Also considered leading authorities in their respective fields, Guy Mclellan, Richard Brookshaw, Peter Wohrle and Alessandro Pozzi will explore the different aspects of digital dentistry, including CAD/CAM and 3D modelling, demonstrating the many benefits available to improve clinical outcomes and ensure an integrated workflow.

For those looking to expand their knowledge and understanding of implant design and materials, don’t miss Jose Navarro and Rishi Patel, and Andrew Dawood will offer a wealth of practical hints and advice when facing rehabilitation of severely compromised patients. Michelle Ryckman and Steve Bongard will also help the entire team communicate more effectively with patients, encouraging increased treatment acceptance and helping you grow your business.

In addition, ideal for dentists and dental technicians alike, Stefan Holst, Susan Tanner and Glenn McEvoy will present a practical session on ‘Clinical & laboratory realities: partnering for future success’. Discover fresh ideas on how to improve your inter-team relationships for enhanced collaboration and exceptional treatment outcomes.

Learn through interaction

Enabling you to make the very most of the rich educational offerings, a unique programme format will be presented. Everyone is invited to the first session of the day on Friday, during which leading speakers will share their perspectives and expertise on management of terminal / failing dentition. The programme then splits into a two-track system, when you can either explore the art and science of exceeding patients’ aesthetic expectations, or discuss pioneering changes in the arena of modern dental implantology.

In the afternoon, you will have the choice between eight different masterclasses and hands-on workshops, allowing you to get up and personal with the world-class podium speakers. Sessions will then be repeated on Saturday morning so you can attend a second workshop or masterclass of your choice. After lunch on Saturday, everyone will gather together once again to demystify the options available for patients with a compromised maxilla and fixed prosthesis.

To compliment the unrivalled speaker line-up and pertinent topical subjects, Friday evening will host the Team Conference Gala Dinner. Dressed in your finest, the event will offer the perfect opportunity to network and enjoy an evening in the company of friends and highly esteemed colleagues.

The Nobel Biocare Team Conference will be held on 6^th and 7^th November at The Brewery in London. A grand yet inclusive environment, the entire dental team will be brought together for two days of intense but practical training and education, delivered by some of the best in the business in a fresh and unique way.

To raise the bar of your dentistry and ensure you operate at the very cutting-edge of the profession, make the most of this year’s Nobel Biocare Team Conference and the astounding, one-of-a-kind programme available. Secure your delegate position by booking online today.

For more information, register online at www.nobelbiocare.com/uk2015, or contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300.

In general, we make provisions for the things we value; many of our most treasured possessions are insured against loss an damage. Our homes, cars, pets, holidays, through to our general health and life itself, are all typically covered by insurance plans. The amount of value we attach to these cherished articles, for various reasons, tends to differ from individual to individual.

For example, however expensive our home sound system, the equivalent equipment to a professional Disc Jockey is likely to be worth considerably more to him or her as it constitutes the tools of their trade. For many, body parts are of great value, but few of us will insure limbs like Cristiano Ronaldo who reportedly insured his legs for $144 million when he was at Manchester United.

When it comes to safeguarding dental health, the risks are high; the repercussions of poor oral health influence not only our self-confidence and relationships but are also linked to general health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, strokes, pneumonia, premature birth and rheumatoid arthritis. In this context, it seems strange that only 12% of the UK population invest in dental insurance policies[i]. Because completely free NHS dental care is only available to a few – pregnant women, new mothers, children up to the age of 18 and those in receipt of benefits – insurance policies can be the most affordable option. NHS dental care currently comprises of three different treatment bands, ranging from £18.80 for an examination, x-ray and diagnosis, through to £222.50 for treatments including bridges and crowns. Even practices offering these treatments have to charge the patient significant fees, especially for complicated work. 63% of NHS dental patients choose their practices for cost reasons[ii] so it’s prudent for patients and clinical professionals alike to familiarise themselves with dental insurance options, which can provide good value for money, particularly where several treatments will be required.

For patients with good oral hygiene and health, a six-monthly or yearly check up can be all that is required, at a current cost of under £20 each time. However, the statistics show these patients are relatively rare. The 2009 Adult Dental Health Survey revealed 45% of the adult population with teeth displayed gingival pockets of 4mm or more, indicating that periodontal disease is a widespread issue.[iii] However, few dental practices offer hygienist services under their NHS umbrella – a British Dental Association report in 2013 showed that over half of the dental practices in the UK with more than a 75% commitment to NHS dentistry, didn’t employ hygienists at all[iv]. Dental patients with periodontal conditions are recommended to visit a hygienist at least twice a year, typically costing around £50 each time. Add to that the cost for a standard amalgam filling at £50.50 (a composite, white filling is usually a private treatment), and the necessary dental check ups, it’s clear to see how costs can escalate. For those patients requiring extensive dental procedures, a policy from a reputable insurance company – ranging from £220-276[v] for annual private cover – will pay 75% of the final bill and can end up being much more cost-effective. For dental patients who require extensive dental work but can access all the treatments through their NHS dentist, NHS clinic-only insurance options are even better – with unlimited treatment cover starting at £120 covering 100% of costs incurred[vi]. Depending on the extent of treatment required, dental insurance policies can make sound financial sense, particularly as they can sometimes cover family units, accidents or emergencies overseas, and some offer no upper age limit for new customers.

Munroe Sutton has been organising, designing and managing stand-alone, affordable dental plans for over thirty years. These plans are created by dentists, modelled to benefit both the professional and the patient with the committed provision of fair compensation for dental services and improved accessibility to quality dental care for the individual. It costs a practice absolutely nothing to join the Munroe Sutton database but inclusion reaps unlimited rewards.

Prominent insurance, healthcare and finance institutions direct customers seeking their services to your practice, constituting free marketing and a continual flow of profitable new business. With dental professionals feeling pressure to meet UDA targets and remain competitive with the use of new technology and treatment options, what could be better than a free, successful marketing tool to keep your business moving forward?

For more information please call 0808 234 3558

or visit www.munroesutton.co.uk
 

In 2009, the GDC commissioned research to gain patient input into the development of its new framework and Standards. Part of this research included a study entitled, Revalidation: The Patient Perspective, which sought to identify insights and detailed information from patients to establish their expectations of the standards that dental professionals should meet.

This study looked in detail at the patient journey and found that: “for most participants [this] involved feelings of trepidation and anxiety in the lead-up to the appointment.” It went on to state that, “Much can be done to set patients at ease through good communication and friendly and relaxed staff.”[1]

While plenty has been achieved since 2009 in regards to improving the patient experience, many practices could still benefit from addressing the fundamental communication issues that lie at the heart of the patient journey. After all, whichever business model your practice follows, whether Private, Mixed, NHS or multi-practice, the key aim will be to increase sales and profitability, and at the centre of that is the patient journey. This is what keeps your patients coming back or encourages them to attend your practice in the first place.

So by understanding your patient journey, looking at each stage in turn – and clearly communicating it to your patients – you will naturally create a more successful practice. Some do this extremely well, while others are far less consistent. For instance, a practice that has taken into account their patient journey might have a clear description on their website, detailing everything from first contact right through to aftercare and follow-ups.

This approach empowers patients with the foreknowledge of what to expect. Which in turn creates more and better quality leads, happier patients who appreciate you and are easier to serve and a more efficient business where you can cope with increased patient numbers without the need for more team members.

This might all seem too good to be true; it isn’t – but it does take a lot of hard work to achieve and is not an overnight project. Central to it all is understanding your own patient journey, providing clear communication and enhancing and enriching the patient experience.

What is the patient journey?

The patient journey comprises everything from the first visit to your website to any treatment itself and beyond. It covers every interaction or point of contact between patient and practice and is impacted by everything you do, this includes:

·      Phone calls (in and out bound)

·      Communications by post

·      Emails

·      Text messages

·      The service provided in reception

·      Interactions with the dentists and associates

·      Interactions with the dental nurses and treatment co-ordinators

·      Posters, advertising, leaflets

·      The content of your website

·      Follow-ups post treatment and aftercare.

In order to get to grips with your patient journey and understand how this affects your patients and their decisions, it is crucial to analyse each interaction, deciding what you want those exchanges to say about your practice and what the desired outcome of each is.

To get this right you will need to focus on your brand and consider exactly what it stands for. You might decide your brand is clinical and professional, or friendly and welcoming, but whatever message you want to deliver must be consistent throughout each and every interaction; from the tone of voice to the way your practice is described.

Each point of contact will likely have a slightly different key message, so it is also vital that this is clearly communicated. For instance an email sent to a prospective patient should have a very different message and content to that of a phone call to arrange a follow-up.

Trust

Whatever the message, medium or content of your interactions, it is crucial that each one works to build trust in your practice and services. 

Most dental patients don’t understand what they’re buying – they know their teeth hurt, or they look bad, but they don’t understand how to make the right choice. This means you have to assure them they can trust your practice and every member of your team.

To do that you need to be consistent: have the same branding everywhere, with every communication to the same standard, and all the team in the same uniform. You must be accurate, having the correct pricing on every document, good spelling and grammar, and their paperwork ready when they come in. You also need to be up-to-date – not having pictures of old team members on the website; and provide all the necessary details when asked, explaining exactly what’s going to happen, and what the differences between treatment options are.

Once you’ve spent time considering and designing your patient journey, looking at the ways you build trust and communicate with your patients, you will need to find the best way to implement these changes. This is where turning to a proven solution can help. 7connections, along with software giant Infusionsoft can assist your practice in implementing the ideal patient journey using the much-discussed Artisan Lifecycle Marketing approach. A marketing and lead generation system, it addresses the patient journey from start to finish, so that you can begin to grow your business through increased efficiency, higher productivity and more satisfied patients.

A strong patient journey is one of the most fundamental aspects of creating a successful practice. By spending time focusing on how your patients experience your practice from start to finish, you will ensure the service you provide is always of the highest calibre.

For more information about 7connections, please call 01647 478145 or email pThis email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..

Alternatively, please visit the new website www.7connections.com.

Recent research has revealed that only half (53%) of UK parents, with children under the age of 12, take their children to visit the dentist regularly[1]. Furthermore, just a quarter (25%) of parents believe it is important to take a baby to the dentist as soon as they develop their first baby tooth. This coincides with reported figures that suggest dental caries among children are rising[2] and that more children in England are being admitted to hospital because of tooth decay than for any other reason[3].

These worrying trends highlight the need for healthcare professionals to educate parents on the importance of regular check-ups. Creating a more child-friendly practice could also help to improve the number of children visiting and encourage them to return.

Starting with the entrance and reception area, practices should be inviting and put both adult and child at ease from the moment they walk in the door. Parents should feel comfortable enough to want to bring their babies to the practice, so that the dentist can check on the development of the milk teeth and ensure any problems or signs of decay can be identified and addressed early⁴.

A small number of changes can be made within the practice to enhance a child’s experience, for example:

• Smaller chairs for children to sit on
• A specific area in the waiting room with toys, comic books and magazines
• Experienced and friendly staff who can help to build a child’s trust
• Providing stickers, sugar-free sweets or healthy snacks for children at the end of their treatment.

It is essential to gain a patient’s confidence within the operatory room, and despite including some of the above changes, the dental chair can remain a particularly daunting place. Climbing into an intimidating chair and letting a masked, gloved stranger poke around in their mouth can be a big deal for some young patients[4]. It is important that all patients feel safe and relaxed, and a dental unit that looks and feels comfortable will help achieve this.

A modern stylish dental unit, such as the innovative Skema 8, will reassure patients that they are going to be well looked after and help keep stress to a minimum. Developed by leading manufacturer Castellini, the Skema 8 is designed to optimise the workspace while improving patient comfort. Dentists can work easily without leaning over the patient, and by not intruding so much on a child’s space this may reduce worries and ensure a quick and efficient appointment.

Maximise comfort and provide a professional service to all your patients with the Skema 8 – contact the experienced team at Castellini to find out more.

If you want more information on how to receive Castellini Technical Accreditation, please call 08000 933975 and speak to Castellini UK Ltd directly for assistance.

The CS 7200 intraoral imaging plate system from Carestream Dental delivers the optimum in versatility for modern practitioners.

An affordable solution for practices making the transition from film to digital imaging, the CS 7200 is the ideal companion for professionals looking for a fast and chairside workflow.

Its compact and elegant design enables flexible installation possibilities, and it can be seamlessly integrated with existing practice management and record keeping technologies for easy access and data security.

With the Carestream Dental team’s commitment to eXceed and the delivery of exceptional customer service, you can also be sure to receive all the help and support you need, whenever you need it.

If you prefer a chairside phosphor plate imaging system, look no further than the CS 7200 from Carestream Dental.

For more information, contact Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

For all the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter @CarestreamDentl and Facebook 

A lot of research into the benefits of using Water Flosser as opposed to string floss has been conducted to date. Independent research studies have shown that the Water Flosser was up to 50% more effective at reversing gingivitis, up to 93% more effective for reducing bleeding and can remove 29% more plaque than string floss.[1]^,[2] It is also significantly more effective for implant and orthodontic patients who are more susceptible to developing gingival inflammation.[3]^,[4]

But, this research would mean nothing without the endorsement of professional hygienists who have a working knowledge of oral irrigation products. Michael Wheeler is a dental hygienist at Bramcote Dental Practice in Castle Cary and an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Kent. When asked about the products available from Waterpik International, Inc. he said:

“I am a firm advocate of the Waterpik® Water Flosser – both for those patients who are having difficulties in maintaining oral hygiene with bridges or crowns, and those who already demonstrate good oral hygiene routines. The Water Flosser is a very effective product and is relatively easy to use, so it’s really beneficial for all. 

“A patient I’d been treating for several years recently highlighted this. She’d had a bridge fitted about 30 years previously and although her oral hygiene was exemplary, she expressed that the bridge caused her some difficulties, especially when it came to maintaining such a high level of oral hygiene. I suggested she incorporate one of the Water Flossers from Waterpik® into her daily cleansing routine, in an attempt to offer her a logical solution to these issues.

“The next time I saw her she was delighted with the results of the oral hygiene adjunct, stating: ‘It’s absolutely life-changing and the best thing I’ve ever used!’ Even I was slightly taken aback by the level of her enthusiasm, but it was great to hear!

“A second patient of mine, a reformed heavy smoker, also noticed an improvement in his oral hygiene with the use of a Water Flosser from Waterpik®.

“It just goes to prove with the right patient, even if their oral hygiene is beyond criticism, you can provide further motivation with the right product.”

Discover the many benefits of clinically proven solutions from Waterpik International, Inc. for yourself, and contact the team today.

For more information on Waterpik International, Inc. please visit www.waterpik.co.uk. Waterpik^® products are available at Amazon, in

Boots and at Superdrug stores across the UK and Ireland.

The BACD is proud to announce that Dr Serhat Köken will be presenting two sessions at the 12^th Annual Conference this November.

In what is going to be an unmissable event, Dr Köken will discuss isolation techniques and tips in his two exciting lectures. Delegates will get the chance to develop essential practical skills in the art of isolation under skilled tuition during the first hands-on session. Then, in the second day’s presentation, Dr Köken will cover all clinical aspects of anterior composite from choosing the correct shades to preparation tips, layering composites, and tricks on finishing and polishing.

Commenting on the forthcoming BACD conference, Dr Köken says: “Covering all aspects of direct resin composite restorations, the lectures will be applicable to everyone. I hope that delegates benefit and learn from the sessions and come away motivated and enthused. It is a huge honour to be asked to present at the Annual Conference and I am very much looking forward to coming to London.”

Serhat will join a fantastic line up of speakers who will bring delegates the latest knowledge and techniques in cosmetic dentistry – don’t miss out book your ticket today.

The BACD’s 12^th Annual Conference runs from 12^th - 14^th November 2015 at The Hilton London Metropole Hotel. For more information and to book your place, go to www.bacd.com

General Medical will be introducing a wide range of new products on Stand J15 including the Choukroun PRF system, which accelerates soft tissue and bone healing following surgical procedures; the PACT300 photo-activation system which delivers effective treatment for all oral infections in just 20 seconds; the Mectron Piezosurgery White which is available for less than £3k, unbelievable value; Zest’s LODI and Saturno Narrow Diameter Implants; and VibraJect, the practical and effective answer to painless injections.  There will be offers available on all of these products!

For further information telephone General Medical on 01380 734990, visit www.generalmedical.co.uk or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.