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.