Keeping on top of it all - BACD

There has never been a better time to work within the dental profession. Thanks to the latest advances in tools, materials and clinical techniques, dental professionals are now able to provide a standard of dentistry unlike ever before. From the latest composite filling materials, to dental implants and short-term orthodontics, the dental profession has a great deal to offer patients and professionals alike, with the chance to create beautiful, natural-looking smiles that make a real and lasting impact on the quality of patients’ lives.

Dental conferences

One of the best ways to help you keep on top of the latest developments within dentistry is to attend the major dental conferences held throughout the year. Conferences can be a fantastic way to sample different lecturers and get a sense of where dentistry is at today. Furthermore, many conferences will also feature an exhibition element where you can talk to representatives from the major suppliers and manufacturers and see for yourself the materials and products that are now available.

As a busy dental professional it can be all too easy to become trapped in your practice ‘bubble’. However, dental conferences represent a great opportunity to escape this bubble and get a taste for what’s out there and the sorts of things that are now on offer. Whether you are a recent graduate, or you’ve been working in the profession for many years, conferences can be an excellent way to get out there, challenge your expectations and ultimately ‘raise the bar’. Not only that but you will also find conferences are a great way to network, to meet new people and maybe even make a few new friends!

Join a society

Another excellent way to help you keep on top of it all is to join a society or dental academy. No matter what your special area of interest there is an organisation out there for you – whether you are interested in endodontics, orthodontics, periodontics or even cosmetic dentistry! Indeed, the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) is one of the most active and vibrant organisations in UK dentistry, with members of all experience levels and backgrounds in dentistry. By joining an academy such as the BACD you can be sure to stay up to date with all the latest developments within the profession, while also gaining access to high quality education and social events.

Mentorship

Beyond conferences and societies, another fantastic way to help you stay ahead of the game is to consider finding yourself a mentor, or even mentors. This doesn’t have to be any sort of formal arrangement – nor does it have to be limited to just a single colleague. In fact it can help to find mentors in a range of different fields to give you a fresh perspective on dentistry and to help you develop your skills. Again, you may find that organisations such as the BACD and others can be a fantastic resource to find mentors, or even just local colleagues with whom you can meet and share ideas.

Dentistry today is a wonderful profession with so many opportunities on offer for you to learn and grow within your career. The opportunities are out there, but as with so many things in life, the secret is knowing where to look.

For further information about the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, call 0207 612 4166, fax 0207 182 7123, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit www.bacd.com