There will be plenty for dental nurses to enjoy at BDIA Dental Showcase 2025 this March, where there will be some fantastic speakers covering relevant topics. Among these will be none other than President of the British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN), Preetee Hylton RDN. She kindly shared her thoughts on the show and her upcoming lecture:
What are the benefits for dental nurses who attend conferences such as this?
Attending dental events like BDIA Dental Showcase can be a game-changer for dental nurses – trainees, newly-qualified and seasoned – offering a perfect blend of learning, professional growth and connection with like-minded individuals. These conferences are packed with eCPD-accredited sessions aimed at the dental team, hands-on workshops and lectures by experts in the dental industry. Beyond the educational aspect, I believe that attending these events open doors to career opportunities, whether it is discovering new roles, advancing skills, or even exploring alternative pathways in dentistry. I also like browsing cutting-edge tools and technology (which get discussed with my clinician) capable of enhancing our patients’ experience in the dental environment. Conferences like this are where knowledge meets opportunity!
What’s your advice for dental nurses to make the most of their time at these events?
- Plan ahead – review the conference schedule in advance, identify and make note of the eCPD sessions and lectures that you are interested in. Research the exhibitors and suppliers available to meet.
- Engage with others – actively participate in workshops, discussions and Q&As at the end of lectures. Approach speakers about their talks and professional journey to build wholesome connections. Visit your professional organisations’ stands and discover projects you might wish to get involved in to shape the profession. Of course, find us at the BADN stand – we would love to get to know you and work alongside you!
- Network – I love meeting old friends and connecting with new dental professionals. Building a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities and collaborations.
What will you cover as part of your session in the Oral Health Theatre (Saturday 15 March, 10:45)?
What will you cover as part of your session in the Oral Health Theatre (Saturday 15 March, 10:45)?My session “Speak Up, Save Smiles: Empowering Dental Teams Against Abuse” will equip dental professionals with the knowledge to recognise, respond to, and support those experiencing domestic abuse. It will cover various forms of abuse, how to identify physical and behavioural indicators, and the essential role dental teams play in offering safe, confidential assistance. Attendees will learn practical strategies for sensitive communication, referral pathways, and creating a supportive workplace environment. Through my own lived experience of domestic abuse, this session will empower dental professionals to make a meaningful impact in breaking the cycle of abuse and fostering a culture of care and safety.
What do you hope attendees will take away from your session?
Attendees will walk away with a deep understanding of the various forms of domestic abuse and how they can manifest in a dental setting. They will learn to identify subtle physical and behavioural signs that might otherwise go unnoticed. Dental team members will gain knowledge on how to approach victims/survivors with sensitivity and compassion, along with actionable steps for connecting individuals to the right support networks. By sharing my own lived experience of domestic abuse, I aim to work tirelessly to help others develop the confidence to intervene appropriately and create a practice environment that feels safe and supportive for those experiencing domestic abuse. Most importantly, attendees will leave empowered to make a real difference, knowing that their awareness and action could help save lives and support family, friends and colleagues in finding safety and freedom.
What can attendees expect to find at the BADN stand A30?
Attendees visiting the BADN stand can expect a comprehensive showcase of resources and support, tailored for dental nurses. The stand offers insights into BADN membership benefits, including access to the digital British Dental Nurses Journal, virtual e-CPD opportunities, and exclusive member content. They can also engage in informative discussions about the association’s initiatives and learn about upcoming events and networking opportunities, like our virtual Coffee Catch-Ups, which are designed to connect dental professionals and promote cohesive working practices. By visiting the BADN stand, dental nurses can discover valuable tools and support systems to enhance their professional growth and practice.
Why would you encourage dental nurses to attend BDIA Dental Showcase?
BDIA Dental Showcase is an unmissable opportunity for dental nurses to connect with industry leaders, network with like-minded professionals, and explore career opportunities that can take them to the next level. Beyond the education and networking, the atmosphere is energising and welcoming, and dental professionals will leave equipped with fresh ideas, the motivation to make an even greater impact in their role and start their journey of becoming the best version of themselves as a dental professional.
