Invest in knowledge – Chris McConnell – BACD

  Posted by: Dental Design      5th April 2019

As the famous saying goes, “An investment in knowledge pays the best interest”, which is as true of the dental profession as any other. Continued education is vitally important to ensuring you are able to provide the best possible care to your patients. Dentistry is an ever-evolving industry, continuously undergoing changes due to advances in technology, materials and techniques. Within the cosmetic and restorative dental field, in particular, practitioners are under increasing pressure to deliver a wider range of cutting-edge treatments that ensure optimal dental function and aesthetics. As such, the importance of keeping up-to-date with the latest industry developments through continued education cannot be underestimated.

In this regard, it can be of huge benefit for clinicians to join a professional organisation that strives to support the delivery of ethical, safe, and high quality dentistry. Renowned as a world-leading authority in the cosmetic dental field, the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) prides itself on being one of the industry’s go-to sources for top-class education. Since the Academy’s inception in 2003, it has grown from strength to strength, developing into a dynamic organisation that encourages dentists to further their careers through a community of shared learning. The BACD’s highly inclusive membership scheme welcomes dental professionals from all backgrounds and experiences to share their passion for cosmetic dentistry.

To ensure practitioners benefit from a fantastic return on investment for their membership, the BACD is committed to delivering a bespoke programme of educational events – all designed to help practitioners enhance their cosmetic dental knowledge and skills. Held in various locations across the country and throughout the year, these exciting events invite some of the industry’s most distinguished professionals – from both the UK and abroad – to share their insight on a wide range of fascinating topics. No matter whether you are a dental student, a newly qualified practitioner, an experienced associate, or a practice owner, the educational events offered by the BACD cater to clinicians of all abilities and interests.

Recommended Meetings provide the ideal opportunity for practitioners to take a break from the clinic, make the most of their weekend and learn something new. These highly popular sessions cover everything from digital smile design concepts and CAD/CAM technology, to dental implants, orthodontic treatment, composites, dental photography, and full-arch rehabilitations. In addition, the BACD Young Dentists Day enables some of the youngest clinicians to explore how they can advance within their career through professional mentorship. On the other hand, the Ladies Who Do Dentistry event sets the stage for a highly informative discussion among dentists looking to manage the challenges of busy dental practice living. At the end of the year, practitioners can join hundreds of other delegates at the BACD’s celebrated Annual Conference for three days of engaging lectures, seminars, hands-on workshops, and the chance to explore an eclectic tradeshow.

“Recommended Meetings are small group lectures, providing an excellent opportunity to interact with BACD members,” Dr Stuart Ray commented. “The speakers and presentations at these events have always been superb, with the techniques discussed being highly relevant and usable in everyday practice. The relaxed atmosphere at Recommended Meetings is very conducive to an excellent teaching environment.” 

“I attended BACD Young Dentists Day hoping to come out with a clearer understanding of cosmetic dentistry and I left having gained a lot more than this,” explained final year dental student, Noor Al-Helou. “It gave me sense of direction for the future and enabled me to network with highly experienced dentists who can mentor and support me should I need some advice. One of the best aspects about the event – besides everything you learn – is that you have the ability to meet new people who are at the same level as you in their career.”

Recounting her experience at the Ladies Who Do Dentistry event, Dr Lydia Sharples said: “I really enjoyed meeting other dentists that not only included established figures, but also those at the start of their careers like me, who I’ve stayed in touch with since the event. Ladies Who Do Dentistry provides a great opportunity for you to pick the brains of really successful members of the profession.”

“The BACD Annual Conference exposes delegates to fantastic speakers,” Dr Usha Ramjas added. “The event provides the chance for you to mingle with like-minded individuals, and also enables you to benchmark yourself to see if you are utilising the most innovative techniques and technologies.”

The BACD sets itself apart from other organisations by offering invaluable access to a wealth of expertise, and providing a fantastic platform from which to network with some of the world’s leading clinicians. As a diverse and welcoming community of dental professionals, the BACD enables you to foster long-lasting professional relationships and friendships. If taken full advantage of, the many educational opportunities available through BACD membership can effectively support clinicians seeking to progress within cosmetic dentistry. Ultimately, this will ensure practitioners further their careers and maintain high clinical standards in day-to-day practice. Be sure to visit the BACD website to find out how you could become a member today.

For further enquiries about the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry visit www.bacd.com