Month: May 2022

Renew your skills and enthusiasm at the ADI Team Congress!

Amanda Jackson will be speaking at the ADI Team Congress within the Dental Nurses’ & Practice Managers’ Programme, discussing “Implant Decontamination”. She says:

“At the ADI Team Congress we will be looking at the main challenges of dental implant decontamination in dental practice with regards to training, time management, following manufacturer’s instructions and HTM 01 05.

“With all infection control practices, it is the little things that can cause problems. It only takes one person to move or set something in the wrong place to cause a change and create poor practice. Training in the decontamination processes and workflow is necessary to ensure operators do not negatively impact the workflow. Completing decontamination audits can show how we can ensure we are meeting the required standards or highlight areas for improvements. This ensures we keep not only ourselves safe but also our patients, which is a top priority. 

“Even though you may be thinking, I have heard the decontamination process talk before! There is always room to improve and attending the ADI Team Congress will not only help you meet the GDC CPD requirements, but it will also give you an opportunity to take time away from the surgery, hopefully as a team to reflect on your dental implant decontamination processes, check if you are following manufacturer’s instructions, think about how your local decontamination unit works, how you store equipment and what records you keep. This ensures you are maintaining costly dental implant equipment to prolong its life but, more importantly, this session can bring new ideas. You may have that light bulb moment for how to improve practice. You will go back to work full of enthusiasm to make changes to implant decontamination and work towards best practice.”  

Don’t miss Amanda’s session at the ADI Team Congress!

ADI Team Congress 2022

“The Great Debate”

26-28 May 2022, Manchester Central

 

ADI members will be able to attend the ADI Team Congress for discounted rates. Join today.

www.adi.org.uk/congress22

 

The complete X-ray solution

The Orthophos SL3D, available from Clark Dental, is a highly intuitive and innovative all-rounder for every practice to benefit from.

  • Direct conversion sensor delivers incomparably sharp image quality
  • Various 3D volume sizes ensure adaptability to different clinical scenarios
  • Sharp layer (SL) technology guarantees easy image focus
  • Interactive SL makes it simple to take subsequent lingual or buccal images
  • Optimal patient positioning promotes their comfort while supporting exceptional image capture first time

Want to know more? Clark Dental is on hand to demonstrate this and many other market-leading digital solutions designed to make your life that much easier in practice. Contact the experts for more details today!

For more information call Clark Dental on 01268 733 146, email info@clarkdental.co.uk or visit www.clarkdental.co.uk

Canal preparation: always a challenging step, but modern instruments are up to the job

During endodontic treatment, canal preparation is recognised as one of the most important steps, but also one of the most challenging.[i] It enables tissue, microorganisms and other products to be comprehensively cleaned away, and for space to be created that will then be irrigated, medicated and obturated.

As with almost every process in dentistry, developments in technique – and the tools/materials that support them – mean that contemporary approaches to canal preparation are both simplified and give modern clinicians more options, especially in complex cases. They also reflect the trend for conservative treatments, which preserve and protect vital, healthy tissue.

In the past, both the instruments and methods used, such as the step back/incremental technique, could not only prove time-consuming, but presented many disadvantages, such an increased risk of inadequate irrigation, also ledging, transportation and perforation.[ii] The step-down/crown down technique was developed as a response to these and other limitations; this sequence has various advantages including more precision with regards to working length and apical size, also enhanced irrigation penetration and straight access for instruments into the canal anatomy.[iii],[iv]

But the real revolution in root canal preparation has come with new alloys used to manufacture instruments to make endodontic treatment overall safer and more successful, also more cost effective. Unlike stainless steel root canal instruments, nickel-titanium, or NiTi, alloys are metallurgic, meaning they can be heat-treated to enhance the files’ properties.

There is a huge array of NiTi rotary files on the market. Certain manufacturers have been able to modify the properties of NiTi even further, to develop files with controlled memory (CM). Confident preparation of even very curved canals could then be achieved without fear of separation, as the tension-free CM files are able to be bent by hand. Now the 5th generation of root canal files have been made using an electrical discharge machining (EDM) process, for a unique, hardened surface to improve cutting efficiency even further. 

Endodontists want to deliver preparations that are quick, as well as effective. Root canals (still) suffer from a case of bad press: they’re painful, they’re invasive and there is no guarantee that the result will last – these are common myths. The instruments now available have a key role to play in helping to convince people why they should go ahead with a recommendation for endodontic therapy. They have allowed this treatment to be highly conservative, efficiently delivered and have an excellent success rate. The patient will have their tooth saved, by spending far less time in the dentist’s chair than they think, and less money too! Because fewer tools are needed, this supports good value. Any pain will be easily managed, and in just a few days they will be feeling great and returned to good health.

If modern endo instrumentation means using a greatly reduced number of files, other manufacturers are offering just one file for canal shaping, used in a reciprocating motion – repeated clockwise and counter-clockwise movements. The author of a paper published in 2008 gives their preliminary observations of the single-file technique, concluding two major advantages are cost-effectiveness, also the elimination of the possible cross contamination of pathogens associated “with the single use of endodontic instruments”.[v] The reciprocating motion of the file is controlled by a motor, which often can accept rotary systems, so the dentist can use a ‘hybrid’ approach. They can then become adept at using different combinations of instruments and techniques, to successfully treat a wide range of cases.[vi]

The choice of reciprocating file includes those that have been heat-treated with a patented process to give it a perfect balance between flexibility and cutting efficiency, as well as controlled memory. For example, created by MicroMega using C.Wire heat treatment, the One RECI file can be pre-bent to respecting even complex anatomy. With a 1mm wire diameter, the peri-cervical part of the canal and surrounding tissue are preserved, enabling the delivery of minimally-invasive, highly conservative endo treatment, that is also safe. MicroMega is part of the COLTENE group, the dental specialist whose mission is to save practices time and money with innovative solutions to upgrade their dentistry. The One RECI can be used with the CanalPro™ Jeni motor – a digital solution with integrated apex locator, also available from COLTENE. The Jeni is matched to four NiTi file systems, with a Doctor’s Choice function for storing individual sequences for conventional movement patterns.

The tools modern dentists use have helped define and develop new techniques; new techniques have meant manufacturers have had to raise their game and create product lines to match. In endodontics, simplified file systems actually mean more choice, and a greater number of options for the delivery of stable and successful treatment. Along with tools that can give predictable outcomes, the move from stainless steel, to NiTi rotary instruments and now reciprocating single files has continued alongside the trend towards the kind of highly conservative treatments that patients favour and dentists want to deliver.

 

For more on COLTENE, visit www.coltene.com,
email info.uk@coltene.com or call 0800 254 5115.

 

Author: Mark Allen, General Manager at COLTENE

 

[i] Waplington, M., McRobert, A. Shaping the root canal system. Br Dent J 216, 293–297 (2014). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2014.203

[ii] Br Dent J 216, 293–297 (2014).

[iii] Tortini D, Colombo M, Gagliani M. Apical crown technique to model canal roots. A review of the literature. Minerva Stomatol. 2007 Sep;56(9):445-59. English, Italian. PMID: 17938624.

[iv] Br Dent J 216, 293–297 (2014).

[v] Yared G . Canal preparation using only one NiTi rotary instrument: preliminary observations. Int Endod J 2008; 41: 339–344.

[vi] Br Dent J 216, 293–297 (2014).

Your new life starts today, if you start it today!

Talking points

  • What does it mean to be an entrepreneurial dentist today?
  • What do I need to get started?
  • When is the right time to begin a new business venture?

 

Being a successful dentist today means different things to different people. Some look to develop their clinical skills and move into a specialism. Others choose to focus on general dentistry and providing essential care to a broad patient base. Some dentists want to buy their own practice and there are those aiming to build a mini-empire with multiple sites. There is appetite and opportunity for entrepreneurship throughout the profession. But how do you make it happen? How can you make your dream a reality?

It starts with the right mindset.

On a basic level, an entrepreneur creates or extracts value. For a dentist, this could be applied in various ways. You could expand on the services you offer in practice to provide more comprehensive care to your patients. You might instead start up a separate initiative that educates and sells products direct to patients. Alternative examples include setting up a new squat practice or taking over ownership of an existing business, developing a leadership role within your practice or moving into mentoring and lecturing and creating a name for yourself there.

No matter what you want to do, your attitude will – at least partly – determine your success. If you start a new venture thinking it will fail, then it will. However, the opposite is just as true. If you approach the situation with positivity and a commitment to making it work, then your chances of success are much higher.

What does it take to be a successful entrepreneur?

 

Number 1 is passion. You have to believe in what you’re doing and in yourself. Growing or creating a new business will be difficult, so you need to stay motivated to push through the hard times.  

Number 2 is about being proactive. You have to go out and build your new life. Think about what productive steps you can make to get started and do them today!

Number 3 is adaptability. Use your experience and resilience from the past couple of years – channel it into your own project and remain agile to opportunities. 

Number 4 is support. Don’t be afraid to make new connections. Book courses, attend relevant conferences – all of this will expose you the kinds of people who will help you get where you want to go. 

Number 5 is strategy. It can be difficult to see exactly how you will achieve your goals, but it is important to create a plan so you know what steps you have to take. This can provide an approximate timeframe and help you hold yourself accountable as you move forward.

 

The most important thing is that you don’t keep waiting for ‘the right time’. The right time is now.

So, what can you do today? Perhaps you could spend 30 minutes at lunchtime researching courses for communication or speaking skills, or booking a place at an upcoming conference to hear from people that inspire you. Allocate time in your diary this week to brainstorm ideas and start formulating a strategy of how you to bring your vision to life. You could schedule a meeting with your boss to discuss the possibility of flexible hours should you decide to further your clinical qualifications. If you’re interested in running your own courses, or creating a mentoring programme, send a simple email to local colleagues to assess demand. Alternatively, maybe you need to arrange a meeting with the bank to explore potential lending options and to gain a better understanding of not only where you stand, but what you could do to improve circumstances for when you are ready to take the plunge with a new business.

There may be obstacles that you need to overcome along the way, but you can only do this if you start the journey. As we enter the second quarter of 2022, there is still plenty of time to make sure this year is a positive one for your development. If you want to know more about where to start or need some support to get an idea off the ground, the Re-IGNITE development academy may be just what you need – just connect with me on Instagram to start a conversation.

Action points:

  • Think about what aspects of your job or the profession you are most passionate about.
  • How could you grow this aspect or turn it into a new venture that would bring joy to your life?
  • Even the smallest first step is still a first step. Be proactive, start drafting a strategy and commit to doing one thing today to get started.

 

Look up The Re-IGNITE Academy on Instagram or online to find out more!

BDA warns ‘nearly half of dentists severing ties with NHS as government fails to move forward on reform’

The British Dental Association warns an unprecedented collapse in NHS commitment among dentists in England could spell the end for the service without radical and urgent action from government.

As the professional body for dentists prepares to give evidence today (24 May 2022) to the Health and Social Care Committee inquiry into recruitment and retention across healthcare, a new survey of 2,204 high street dentists [1] in England reveals: 

  • Nearly half (45%) report they have reduced their NHS commitment since the onset of the pandemic, by an average of over a quarter. 
     
  • 75% say they are now likely to reduce – or further reduce – their NHS commitment in the next 12 months, the highest level in any BDA surveys since the first lockdown. 45% say they are likely to go fully private. Nearly half (47%) indicate they are likely to change career or seek early retirement. 
     
  • Two thirds (65%) say their practices have unfilled vacancies for dentists. 82% of those reporting vacancies cite working under the current discredited NHS contract as a key barrier to filling posts, over half (59%) cite issues relating to remuneration levels, and 30% difficulties attracting candidates to remote, rural or deprived communities. 29% say posts have been unfilled for more than a year.  
     
  • Nearly 9 in 10 (87%) state they have experienced symptoms of stress, burnout or other mental health problems in the last 12 months, with 86% reporting colleagues in their practice have received physical or verbal abuse from patients. 75% say they are unable to spend sufficient time with patients, and only 25% say they are able to offer the kind of care they want to provide. 

Since the start of the pandemic around 3000 dentists are understood to have moved away from NHS work entirely. However, BDA survey data suggests that this underestimates the real drop in NHS capacity as the proportion of dentists who report having reduced their NHS commitment is 10 times higher than those who report having quit altogether.  Most dentists provide a mixture of NHS and private care – in varying proportions. The BDA has established that most of the dentists reporting a move into exclusively private dentistry have come from a background of providing predominantly NHS care.  

The BDA stresses this new data gives the clearest indication yet of the scale of the crisis facing NHS dentistry.  The government makes no official estimates on the number of ‘Whole Time Equivalent’ NHS dentists in England, with a practitioner providing a single NHS treatment in a year carrying the same weight in workforce data as one providing NHS-only care.

The discredited NHS dental contract, imposed in 2006, puts government targets ahead of patient need, effectively setting a limit on the numbers of NHS treatments a dentist can do in a year. Dubbed ‘unfit for purpose’ by the Health Select Committee fourteen years ago, the system funds care for little over half the population and sets perverse incentives to dentists, rewarding them the same for doing one filling as ten.  

While the government has promised reform, there is no timeline for when this system will end, nor is there any indication the Treasury is willing to commit funds to underpin the rebuild of the service. After a decade of cuts NHS dentistry would require an additional £880m per year simply to restore resources to 2010 levels.  

Shawn Charlwood, Chair of the British Dental Association’s General Dental Practice Committee, said: 

“Overstretched and underfunded, thousands of dentists have already left the NHS, but many more have begun severing their ties.  
“This is how NHS dentistry will die, a lingering decline that unchecked will leave millions of patients with no options.“This Government has ensured many dentists cannot see a future in this service. Without urgent reform and adequate funding there is little hope we can halt this exodus.”   
  
British Dental Association online survey of 2,204 general dental practitioners (ie: high street dentists) practicing in England. Fieldwork 9-17 May 2022. Unless otherwise stated data for each question is from all respondents.

Approximately what proportion of your income was NHS based prior to March 2020? 

 

100% (exclusively NHS) 9% 204
90-99% (NHS) 32% 711
80-89% (NHS) 14% 318
70-79% (NHS) 9% 207
60-69% (NHS) 6% 123
50-59% (NHS) 5% 120
40-49% (NHS) 3% 56
30-39% (NHS) 3% 67
20-29% (NHS) 3% 69
10-19% (NHS) 4% 94
1-9% (NHS) 4% 91
0% (exclusively private) 7% 144

 

Approximately what proportion of your income is NHS based now?

100% (exclusively NHS) 5% 114
90-99% (NHS) 25% 544
80-89% (NHS) 11% 239
70-79% (NHS) 10% 216
60-69% (NHS) 7% 156
50-59% (NHS) 6% 137
40-49% (NHS) 4% 98
30-39% (NHS) 4% 88
20-29% (NHS) 4% 80
10-19% (NHS) 5% 109
1-9% (NHS) 8% 183
0% (exclusively private) 11% 240

 
Analysis of individual responses indicates 45% (1000) of dentists surveyed report a decline in the share of earnings from NHS dentistry from the onset of the pandemic, with 4.5% (100) reporting a move to exclusively private care. The average drop among those reporting a decline in the NHS share of their total earnings is estimated at 27%.

Of those dentists moving into exclusively private work, the majority (62%) have come from a background where more than half their earnings were based on NHS activity prior to COVID.   
 

Please describe the levels of vacancies (if any) in your practice for each of the following roles   

  No vacancies 1 vacancy 2 vacancies 3 vacancies 4 vacancies 5+ vacancies Don’t know Net respondents with vacancies
Associate dentists 33% 32% 19% 9% 2% 2% 2% 65%
Therapists or hygienists 55% 31% 8% 1% 0% 0% 4% 41%
Dental Nurses 27% 28% 26% 10% 4% 2% 2% 70%
Non-clinical staff 59% 26% 7% 2% 0% 0% 6% 35%

Thinking of the current vacancies at your practice for Associate Dentists how long have there been vacancies for? (Data from 1429 respondents currently citing vacancies in their practice)

Vacancy has only just become available (last 1 month) 7%
Vacancy for 2-3 months 16%
Vacancy for 4-6 months 19%
Vacancy for 7-9 months 10%
Vacancy for 10-12 months 15%
Vacancy for 1-2 years 19%
Vacancy for 2-3 years 7%
Vacancy for more than 3 years 4%
Don’t know 3%
Net more than a year 29%

What would you believe are the main barriers to filling vacancies for dentists in your practice? Select as many that apply. (Data from 1429 respondents currently citing vacancies in their practice)

Reluctance to work under current NHS contract 82%
Low Unit of Dental Activity (UDA) value 59%
The location (ie: a rural, remote or deprived area) 30%
Difficulties recruiting dentists from overseas 22%

Please indicate your level of agreement/disagreement with the following statements

  Strongly agree Agree Neither agree nor disagree Disagree Strongly disagree Net agree Net disagree
I feel I am able to provide the kind of patient care I want to provide 10% 16% 10% 34% 30% 26% 64%
I am fairly remunerated for my work 6% 11% 8% 30% 45% 17% 75%
My career allows for a good work-life balance 4% 15% 13% 30% 38% 19% 68%
I feel I am able to spend enough time to fulfil patient need 5% 12% 8% 31% 44% 17% 75%
I would recommend a career in dentistry to my children 2% 8% 16% 23% 51% 10% 74%
I have felt symptoms of anxiety, stress, or depression because of my job in the past year 60% 27% 6% 3% 4% 87% 7%
A member of staff (clinical/ non-clinical) in my practice has experienced physical or verbal abuse from a patient in the last year 57% 29% 5% 4% 4% 86% 9%

What changes in your working life do you anticipate in the next 12 months?                             

  Extremely unlikely Unlikely Neither likely nor unlikely Likely Extremely likely Don’t know/not applicable Net likely Net Unlikely
I will increase my personal NHS commitment 80% 11% 2% 1% 2% 4% 3% 91%
I will reduce my personal  NHS commitment 3% 4% 8% 17% 59% 10% 75% 7%
I will go fully private 9% 17% 16% 22% 23% 13% 45% 26%
I will change career/seek early retirement 15% 18% 14% 23% 24% 7% 47% 33%
I will relocate to practice abroad 47% 20% 11% 7% 4% 11% 11% 67%
My practice will cease operations 39% 30% 14% 6% 2% 9% 8% 69%

 

Eurus S6 – Ergonomic perfection for total control

Belmont’s new flagship treatment centre, the Eurus S6, exudes refinement with a contemporary design that has the Belmont renowned below-the-patient swing-arm delivery system and powerful intuitive touchscreen for advanced instrument control.

The clear and logical touchscreen offers one touch control across a wide range of functions including : handpiece flushing, spittoon valve cleaning, micro motor speed control, turbine speed limiting, optic on/off, scaler settings, spittoon bowl flushing, dental light operating modes and much more.

With an easy-to-read display that tells you all you need to know at a glance, you can pre-programme settings or restore to standard in just one touch. As a combination this brings a wealth of operating options to the fingertips of the dentist. 

The ergonomic functionality allows maximum working space for both operator and assistant. With the spittoon rotated 90 degrees, clear access to the left side of the patient allows the operator to work with ease. Uniquely, this treatment centre allows positioning of the doctor table, instruments, and assistant tray discreetly out of view behind the chair backrest, easing any patient anxiety as they enter the surgery.

New features include a taller backrest cushion with additional lumbar support for unrivalled patient comfort, a wireless foot control as standard for ease of operator positioning with low battery indicator on the touchscreen, plus a wealth of new safety features.

To feel the difference, you’re invited to one of our showrooms to see for yourself. Some things are better experienced rather than explained.

New dentistry, same commitment to excellence

Dentistry has changed, but your commitment to excellence has not. See how the BPR Swiss portable dental units, available from J&S Davis, could help you continue to meet the highest patient care standards.

Lightweight and simple to move around, the clinical carts are ideal for multiple surgeries or even different locations. They feature up to three treatment instruments and a suction device, and are available with or without air compressors to meet all your clinical needs. The plug-and-play functionality means they are also easy to set up and start using, with no water supply required.

Whether you are offering domiciliary care, working with care homes, or just want a reliable back-up unit for your practice, BPR Swiss can help. Contact J&S Davis for more details.

For more information on the industry-leading products available from J&S Davis, visit www.js-davis.co.uk, call 01438 747 344 or email jsdsales@js-davis.co.uk

Effortless excellence with the CS 8200 3D Neo Edition

Finding a CBCT system that complements the way you work is essential. As diagnostic images play such a key role in the provision of exceptional care, it makes sense to use a system that synergises with your needs and that helps you to streamline care from start to finish.

Understanding this, Carestream Dental has recently released the CS 8200 3D Neo Edition. With this system you can elevate your imaging, enjoy streamlined workflows and benefit from a number of exclusive features that have been specifically designed to support next-level delivery of care.

Reimagining a classic

Since its release, the CS 8200 3D CBCT system has become one of Carestream Dental’s best-selling units. Now, the new Neo Edition builds off the success of the original, not only offering the functionality that made this model the preferred choice for practitioners, but enhancing the system with cutting-edge technology and new features.

So, how can the CS 8200 3D Neo Edition benefit you?

Modern design for modern professionals

No one has the time for complex technology in practice, which is why the new CS 8200 3D Neo Edition offers an intuitive, user-friendly interface. This helps to streamline the image acquisition process as you can easily select the parameters you need and ensure that you have everything set up perfectly to achieve the necessary image for the case in question. This helps to reduce incidence of retakes and allows you to perform repeatable procedures with just a click – perfect for pre- and post-treatment images or any cases where additional clinical images are required further down the line.

Patient records as standard

The CS 8200 3D Neo Edition gives professionals the opportunity to log a patient history record for all 2D, 3D and cephalometric exams. This helpful new feature guarantees that you can keep an individualised record during treatment for each patient, streamlining the treatment journey and giving you a better understanding of how care is progressing, all the while making any additional images easier to perform.

This also aids with compliance, helping you form a watertight record of the images you’ve taken.

More options and a lower dose

You can now broaden your treatment possibilities with the CS 8200 3D Neo Edition. You can choose between two different versions of the system that offer either 7 or 9 fields of view (maximum of 12 x 10cm), to reflect your current and future needs. For instance, if you routinely perform a wide array of treatments, you can select the model with a wider range of fields of view to enable facilitated treatment across the board. Building on this, the CS 8200 3D Neo Edition also offers the option of a 3D lateral scout view – a cutting-edge feature that aids with patient positioning.

Plus, the CS 8200 3D Neo Edition has been developed to achieve outstanding images with lower doses in both 2D and 3D modalities – helping to ensure safer treatment. This supports the provision of ethical, high-quality dentistry for all.

Features that take you further 

Integrated into the new CS 8200 3D Neo Edition is CS MAR – Carestream Dental’s innovative metal artifact reduction module that allows practitioners to take a dynamic approach to imaging. CS MAR reduces any image defects caused by metallic restorations such as fillings or crowns that could otherwise lead to misdiagnosis or additional retakes. This module also enables the contrast of images to be adjusted for crystal clear outcomes.

Another new addition to the system is inbuilt guidance to help professionals select the right accessories and modes during image acquisition. This future-forward feature ensures that you know exactly how to achieve the best images possible in every indication, taking away the guesswork and making exceptional care easier than ever before.

Go to the next level with CS UpStream

Inbuilt CS UpStream functionality elevates service from the word go. From 24/7 monitoring services to faster, more responsive assistance, Carestream Dental is on your side whenever needed. Furthermore, CS UpStream introduces digital licensing to the CS 8200 3D Neo Edition. This can be ordered at point of sale, and new CAT numbers have been created to comply with any digital licensing needs.

Streamline your imaging today

With the CS 8200 3D Neo Edition from Carestream Dental, you can take a more dynamic approach to imaging in practice. By utilising its special features as well as the trusted 2D/3D functionality, you can create a smoother imaging experience for both you and your patients. 

 

For more information, contact Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or

visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

For the latest news and updates, follow us on Facebook and Instagram @carestreamdental.uk

 

Bionics: dentistry’s first-class ticket to the future?

Bionics is a vast branch of biomedical engineering, which marries together the world of biology and electronics. The most recognisable example of bionics is probably bionic arms and legs, used by those who have had limbs amputated. Bionic limbs demonstrate how science fiction has become reality in our time. Some bionic arms, for instance, are able to mimic certain natural functions, like grabbing, pinching and even giving a thumbs up.

The field of bionics has ventured further than arms and legs – cochlear implants have transformed the lives of many without hearing. Similarly, visual prostheses have been, and continue to be, developed to give the blind functional vision. This monumental achievement can give back autonomy to those who have lost their sight, and establishes the magnificent strides that science and medicine have, and continue to, achieve.

We really are living in the future, right now. It’s exciting to consider how bionics could be developed further in the field of dentistry. Arguably, by harnessing potential new developments in this field, dental professionals could provide enhanced patient care with all the common challenges dramatically reduced or, even better, eradicated completely. 

Looking to the future

Researchers[i] from the University of Sydney and the University of New South Wales carried out a project on a flock of sheep using a fully implantable visual prosthesis – the Phoenix 99 Bionic Eye. Retinal degenerative diseases, such as retinitis pigmentosa, lead to severe visual impairment;[ii] the Phoenix 99 has been designed to restore beneficial visual percepts to the blind. Essentially, the Phoenix 99 works by stimulating an individual’s retina from the suprachoroidal space, and is linked wirelessly to a small camera and attached to a pair of glasses. This device is designed to be able to circumvent around defective retina cells and trigger those that still work.

The researchers implanted nine Phoenix 99 Bionic Eyes into the left eye of the ovine models; with the absence of infection, the device’s biocompatibility was demonstrated and was well tolerated by the sheep. After 100 days, the researchers noted that the positive results in the sheep determined the potential for encouraging outcomes in humans.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO),[iii] approximately 2.2 billion people globally have near or distance vision impairment. Humans are surprisingly adaptable and many people with vison impairment are able to navigate day-to-day life successfully. Nonetheless, these innovations for visual protheses are impressive feats of human ingenuity and will undoubtedly benefit the lives of thousands. These technologies are still in their infancy, but their development is nevertheless incredibly exciting.

Do dentists dream of electric teeth?

Dentistry has already harnessed bionics with treatments such as dental implants. These treatments give patients a stable, permanent solution to tooth loss, which may be a more attractive option compared to other alternatives, such as bridges and dentures. Innovations within this branch of dentistry are constantly being improved, enhanced and adapted to suit a range of clinical cases and meet the needs of the patient.

However, there is still a long way to go until many challenges within dental implantology can be confronted and prevented.  These challenges may include the loosening of abutment screws, fractures and chipping of the prostheses and failed osseointegration. Biological complications, such as patients who have diabetes or cancer, or if infection has developed post-surgery, are also adversaries to the dental professional. In the worst-case scenario, some patients may not be suitable for dental implant therapy at all, forcing them to seek another option. These issues can be incredibly frustrating for all involved… but what if bionics could be taken even further, to increase the potential for successful outcomes?

For patients who are unsuitable for dental implants, whether due to poor bone quality or insufficient bone, future developments of bionics in the field may aid in making treatment more inclusive and feasible. The prevention of peri-implantitis could also be made possible, in addition to stronger materials that could last a lifetime, resistant to breakages and fractures.

Food for thought

Of course, this is all theoretical, but it’s certainly not impossible. Dentistry will never become obsolete; improving patient care, as well as treatment outcomes, drives every new innovation and development on the market. It’s a wise idea for us as dentists to keep on top of progress within fields such as bionics, especially if they could lead to the development of revolutionary solutions. These technologies may be years away from becoming mainstream within the field, but it’s fascinating watching how they evolve, with the promise of revolutionising dentistry for the better.

 

 

For further information please call EndoCare on 020 7224 0999

Or visit www.endocare.co.uk

 

[i] Eggenberger, S.C., James, N.L., Ho, C., Eamegdool, S.S., Tatarinoff, V., Craig, N.A., Gow, B.S., Wan, S., Dodds, C.W.D., La Hood, D., Gilmour, A., Donahoe, S.L., Krockenberger, M., Tumuluri, K., da Cruz, M.J., Grigg, J.R., McCluskey, P., Lovell, N.H., Madigan, M.C. and Fung, A.T. (2021). Implantation and long-term assessment of the stability and biocompatibility of a novel 98 channel suprachoroidal visual prosthesis in sheep. Biomaterials, [online] Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0142961221005482 [Accessed 21 Feb. 2022].

[ii] Bhattacharya, S.S. and Chakarova, C.F. (2013). Retinitis Pigmentosa. [online] ScienceDirect. Available at: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780123749840013188 [Accessed 21 Feb. 2022].

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Charity head calls for urgent need to ‘level up’ the UK’s oral health

The UK’s oral health is a postcode lottery and is in dire need of levelling up, says Dr Nigel Carter

Speaking on Monday at the launch of this year’s National Smile Month, the Oral Health Foundation’s chief executive, Dr Nigel Carter called for the government to put an end to the vast inequalities in oral health that are causing tens of thousands of people to suffer in pain.

Dr Carter has urged the government to focus on addressing critical problems with access to NHS dentistry and the need to train more dentists.

Dr Carter said: “Oral health varies around the UK – it is a postcode lottery.  This isn’t going to go away overnight as the dentists just aren’t there.  It does seem that there isn’t a wish to address the problem and train more dentists.

“Whether that dentistry is being delivered on the NHS, or the private sector, it is not possible without an adequate workforce.

“You really can’t achieve good health and wellbeing without good oral health.  That’s why during National Smile Month, we are calling for a levelling up agenda so that everybody can achieve the standards of oral health that they really deserve.”

National Smile Month 2022 is all about tackling inequalities within oral health in the UK.

Under the theme of ‘Everyone deserves a healthy smile’, the charity’s campaign will be helping more people achieve a healthier life through better oral health.

The Oral Health Foundation will be providing information and support for thousands of children and families, the elderly and vulnerable, people with disabilities and those living in deprivation or isolation.

Mhari Coxon

Mhari Coxon, President of the Oral Health Foundation said: “This year is about shining a light on the millions of people that are affected by oral health problems such as tooth decay and gum disease.

“We want to support those who are vulnerable, elderly, disabled or those who, for whatever reason, can’t access education, the right dietary advice and because of social economic reasons don’t have access to oral care.

“Everyone deserves a healthy smile, and these diseases are completely preventable.”

Tooth decay is one of the most common diseases in the UK.  One-in-three (33%) adults have signs of tooth decay, as well as around one-in-four (24%) five-year-olds.

Those from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to suffer from tooth decay and be admitted to hospital because of it.  Last week, it was revealed that 14,615 children in England had rotten teeth removed in hospital between 2020-21. 

The Oral Health Foundation is campaigning to make healthier food and drink, that contains less sugar, more affordable for families on lower incomes.  It is tragic to see the government decision this week to delay the ban on cheap offers on unhealthy foods.  Far from helping in these times of inflation the move is likely to store up greater problems with both oral and general health and to cost both individuals and the country more in the future.

The charity also believes a nationwide water fluoridation programme will drastically cut rates of tooth decay, especially in children.  Currently, only 11% of the population benefit from fluoride being added to their water supply.  Research shows that in fluoridated areas, the number of hospital admissions (for tooth decay) falls by between 45% and 68%.

Tooth decay and other oral diseases can have a negative impact throughout life and can cause pain, infection and lead to difficulties with eating, sleeping, socialising and wellbeing.  Campaigners are extremely concerned that oral health has declined during the pandemic.

The charity has found over half (55%) of UK adults feel they have neglected their teeth during the various lockdowns.  Around one-in-seven (15%) admit to not brushing their teeth as much as before the pandemic.  One-in-five (20%) are eating unhealthier foods, and more than one-in-ten (11%) have been drinking more alcohol.

Professor Avijit Banerjee

Professor Avijit Banerjee from Kings College London, speaking on behalf of the Wrigley Oral Healthcare Programme, one of the National Smile Month sponsors said: “The pandemic has highlighted the key issues in both oral and dental health care that we see daily in the news.

“We have access issues, social and demographic inequalities and of course, these impact on the quality of dental health which has declined over the past two years.

“We need to move away from just treating diseases to preventing them.  We need to bring back the national health service, as opposed to a national illness service or a national treatment service.  We need to innovate in the way we change behaviour and engage with the public on prevention.

“Behaviour change is available if we are willing to think outside the box. I was privileged to lead a fantastic research team at Kings College London over the last four years looking at the health benefits of chewing gum. We found that chewing sugar-free gum reduces the level of plaque and decay.”  

Health leaders are also keen to raise awareness about how the health of your mouth has a direct link to the health of your body.

Studies have shown that poor oral health, specifically severe gum disease, can lead to increased risk of heart disease, strokes, diabetes, dementia and poor pregnancy outcomes.

Professor Iain Chapple

Professor Iain Chapple from Birmingham University, speaking on behalf of Johnson&Johnson, the makers of LISTERINE® Ltd and sponsors of the Month said: “Both tooth decay and periodontitis (severe gum disease) are the most common human diseases responsible for more years lost to disability than any other human condition, and the links to systemic diseases are well established.

“There is a desperate need for public health campaigns to raise awareness of this. It’s really tough to get public health messages in oral care funded nationally.  We all need to start investing and getting those messages out there.

“Healthy gums don’t bleed.  Effective toothbrushing and interdental cleaning is essential for keeping gums healthy.  Mouthwashes containing fluoride (with more than 100ppm fluoride) that are clinically proven to reduce plaque/germs offer additional benefit.

Research shows that the single biggest reduction in gum disease occurs through the measures that patients can take at home.”

National Smile Month runs until 16 June and is supported by some of the most well-known household brands in the UK, including Invisalign, Oral-B, GSK, Johnson&Johnson, the makers of LISTERINE® and Wrigley Oral Healthcare Programme.

For more information about the charity campaign and to discover great tips about how to care for your mouth, visit www.smilemonth.org.