Dental filling is a very common procedure in the UK, with an estimated 84% of UK adults having at least one.[i] However, there is an ever-growing demand for highly aesthetic results from dental treatment. This means that, when a patient presents with a cavity, they are likely to expect their tooth to be restored to its former glory.

Aesthetics have become a major aspect of any dental treatment, meaning that, for many dentists, any treatment they provide is likely to have a cosmetic element to it. However, to meet this aim, some clinicians may need to re-evaluate the types of materials they use when providing patients with even the most routine restorative treatment, such as fillings.

Current restorative options in the UK

Currently, in the UK, dental filling provided on the NHS are primarily made of amalgam, composite, or glass ionomer – the most common of these being amalgam, a mixture of metals which include mercury, silver, tin, and copper.[ii] Even though amalgam is being slowly phased out in this country, it is still commonly used due to its hard-wearing properties – often ideal for use in the posterior region.ⁱⁱ

It has been used as a dental restorative material for the last 150 years[iii] and, while it produces a long-lasting finish, with results enduring for around 15 years[iv] it is not without its faults. That’s why the profession has been looking to provide reliable alternatives.

The drawbacks

Research suggests that it may not be suitable to provide some groups with amalgam fillings. These include children, people who are pregnant or breast-feeding, or those who are the sensitive to the components of amalgam. Because of this, it is important to use an alternative material for these groups where possible.[v]However, there is a second drawback to this material – its appearance. When used to fill cavities in teeth, amalgam can have a silver or grey appearance, a very obvious downside for many patients. Because of this, some may request the use of a more aesthetically pleasing alternative.

What about composite? Composite fillings address one of the main concerns presented by amalgam, providing patients with a natural-looking result. Available in a wide range of shades, clinicians are able to precisely match the colour of the patients tooth to the colour of the composite, for a seamless finish. However, this material is not without its limitations, either. When compared to amalgam, its lifespan is about half the time of an amalgam filling – about 5-7 on average. Additionally, composite fillings are generally more expensive options, and placement can take longer – a potential downside for patients with dental anxiety, or children.ⁱⁱⁱ

Finding an alternative

So, what’s the alternative? While there is no true replacement for natural dental tissue, there are options which provide the aesthetics, longevity, and function needed to satisfy patients, with the potential to provide added benefits. Glass ionomer cements (GICs) are an excellent choice in many cases. This material offers the ability to easily bond to the structure of the tooth, often without the need for preparation, making placement straightforward and quick – a real perk for busy patients and dentists.[vi]

Additionally, GICs offer the prospect of remineralisation, as they have a fluoride releasing capacity.^vi This means that, not only does the material fill and seal the cavity with ease, but it is actually able to help protect the tooth from developing secondary caries – the leading cause of restoration failure.[vii] Not only this, but GICs provide an aesthetic result. The material facilitates a minimally invasive outcome, requiring minimal removal of healthy tissue, helping to keep the remaining tooth structure strong. And, it offers a fantastic colour match.[viii]

Diamond Rapid Set Capsules from Kemdent are the user-friendly and cost-effective option for posterior restorations – offering a tough and durable result which is resistant to edge chipping. As well as negating some of the downsides to composite and amalgam materials, Diamond Rapid Set Capsules are a glass ionomer cement which adhere to the tooth structures without the need for tooth preparation – a reliable and time-efficient solution. Additionally, Diamond Rapid Set Capsules can be chemically cured without dimensional change, meaning that they can be placed in one increment, avoiding the creation of stresses, and reducing the risk of cracking.

Weighing up the options

While it can feel challenging to find the most appropriate restorative material in each case, it is important to weigh-up the options as the world of dentistry continues to evolve. With options such as GIC offering a fantastic alternative to both amalgam and composite material, you are able to expand treatment options for your patients, offering minimally invasive treatment to help slow the restorative cycle, while still ensuring you provide a lasting restoration with highly aesthetic results. 

For more information about the leading solutions available from Kemdent, please visit www.kemdent.co.uk or call 01793 770 256

Author Alistair Mayoh

Marketing Director Kemdent

[i] Dentaly.org. Interesting Facts about Teeth and UK Dental Statistics. Accessed 06/07/23.  https://www.dentaly.org/en/dental-facts-statistics/

[ii] NHS. What are NHS fillings and crowns made of? Accessed 06/07/23. https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/dental-health/what-are-nhs-fillings-and-crowns-made-of/

[iii] Metro East dental care. The Pros & Cons of Amalgam and Composite Fillings. Accessed 06/07/23. https://www.metroeastdentalcare.com/the-pros-cons-of-amalgam-and-composite-fillings/

[iv] Parker Dental & Orthodontics. Do Fillings Need to be Replaced? Accessed 06/07/23. https://www.parkerdentalandortho.com/blog/do-fillings-need-to-be-replaced/

[v] FDA. Dental Amalgam Fillings. Accessed 06/07/23. https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/dental-devices/dental-amalgam-fillings

[vi] Makanjuola, John, and Sanjukta Deb. “Chemically activated glass-ionomer cements as bioactive materials in dentistry: a review.” Prosthesis 5.1 (2023): 327-345.

https://www.mdpi.com/2673-1592/5/1/24 

[vii] Nedeljkovic, Ivana, et al. “Secondary caries: prevalence, characteristics, and approach.” Clinical oral investigations 24 (2020): 683-691.

[viii] Kent Express dental supplies. WHAT ARE THE ADVANTAGES OF GLASS IONOMER CEMENT. Accessed 06/07/23.https://www.kentexpress.co.uk/kent/blog/what-are-the-advantages-of-glass-ionomer-cement.aspx?sc_lang=en-gb&hssc=1

Enhance your skills, knowledge and take more referrals after completing the Advanced Implant Programme with One to One Implant Education.

Dr Fazeela Khan-Osborne and her world-class teaching team have devised a unique course that will enable you to complete complex cases.

Taught over six days in the UK, with two additional modules on international trips to South Africa and Romania, it is ideal for experienced implant practitioners who want to help more patients comprehensively.

Content includes augmentation techniques, implants in the aesthetic zone and the management of failing teeth. With around half the teaching time given to live surgery and prosthetics, this programme will fast-track your technical ability and put you ahead of the rest.

To reserve your place or to find out more, please visit
https://121implanteducation.co.uk or call 020 7486 0000.

3M Oral Care is proud to announce that Filtek Universal Restorative from 3M has won the ‘Composite: Universal’ category in the Dental Advisor Awards 2023!

For superior aesthetics and wear resistance, Filtek Universal Restorative from 3M utilises patented nanoparticles with nanoclusters.** Its high strength makes it ideal for stress-bearing areas, too.** These features were highlighted by the judges, who also liked its viscosity, handling, easy packing/sculpting and the high gloss finish.** The low stress monomer also helps to alleviate stress associated with polymerisation shrinkage.**

You need products that are dependable, robust and deliver a quality performance every time. Filtek Universal Restorative from 3M is designed to support you during indications such as direct anterior/posterior restorations, core build-ups, splinting and indirect restorations.

Choose excellence, choose Filtek Universal Restorative from 3M – for more information, visit the website today.

For more information, call 08705 360 036 or visit www.go.3M.com/ocsdpr

Please scan for the:

• Latest news on education, webinars and events
  
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3M and Filtek are trademarks of the 3M Company. 

*Dental Advisor Awards 2023: https://www.dentaladvisor.com/evaluations/3m-filtek-universal-restorative/

**3M Internal Data

About 3M
At 3M, we apply science in collaborative ways to improve lives daily. With $34.2 billion in sales, our 92,000 employees connect with customers all around the world.

The UK is home to one of the largest 3M subsidiaries outside the USA, employing around 1,900 people across 12 locations, including four manufacturing sites.

Products manufactured in the UK include coated abrasives, personal safety equipment and adhesive tapes.

As a strategic partner of the British Science Association and a sponsor of WeAreTheCity Rising Star Awards in Science and Engineering, 3M is a passionate advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths).

Learn more about 3M’s creative solutions to the world’s problems at 3M.co.uk or follow @3MUK on Twitter or 3m.uk on Instagram.

The Straumann Group is proud to offer clinicians Medentika^®, a flexible range of prosthetics, expertly engineered and made in Germany.

The Medentika^® range includes the Multi-Platform Systems (MPS), comprised of abutments and restorative components that are compatible with all major implant systems available on the market. With an excellent price-performance ratio, Medentika^® solutions are dependable and uncompromising, but are also economical. The clear design means you receive the same prosthetic interface for all series; there are also unique parts (Novaloc^®/Optiloc^®) that extend the range.

With their passion for perfection and precision, you can depend on Medentika^®. They also provide an up to a lifetime guarantee, for total peace of mind.

For more information, visit the website today.

For more information, visit the website today: https://www.straumann.com/medentika/en/professionals.html

Nothing quite screams modern innovation like the concept of ‘going green’ in every walk of life. Over the last few years, it’s become a phrase that has been recycled and reused, but certainly not reduced, and has grown into a formidable force in dentistry. With patients increasingly likely to seek out sustainable care, and professionals recognising a growing responsibility to help the planet where possible, how can you make your dentistry eco-friendly?

Why should I go green? 

Environmentally-friendly dentistry aims to protect the planet, whilst continuing to prioritise effective care for your patients. A green approach can save you time and money by taking contemporary approaches to reducing waste, conserving energy, and decreasing your pollution contributions.[i]

Your patients may also appreciate your efforts to be environmentally-friendly, and it could affect their healthcare decisions. More than a quarter of millennials and Gen Zs are influenced by a businesses’ impact on the environment when considering interacting with them.[ii] These consumer attitudes are quickly permeating into the medical fields; post-pandemic, healthcare was of highest concern to millennials, and Gen Z prioritised it closely behind the environment.[iii]

Energy use

A major step towards a greener practice is judicious management of your electrical appliance use. They factor for the third largest proportion of emissions caused by dental practices, led otherwise only by travel and procurement processes.[iv] This stands as no surprise considering the extensive need for electric-powered equipment such as compressors, drills, lighting, and computers.

The simplest change could make the largest difference. Using light-emitting diode (LED) lights in a practice could reduce energy consumption by 70%,[v] when compared to traditional incandescent bulbs. The latter wastes 90% of its energy,[vi] an unnecessary contribution to the overall harm to the planet.

Digital workflows can help save the environment – and the dental team’s time – by reducing single use paper waste. Digitising billing and charting systems is quickly becoming the norm in most practices. Whilst reducing the amount of paper you use, the time spent filing information is reduced, and finding said information is far easier. 

Single use waste in the practice

Look around a dental practice, and there is an astronomical number of items that have a lifespan of one patient’s visit. The average number of single use items used in one procedure alone is 41, inclusive of set up, decontamination, and generic PPE. This is raised to 50 items when factoring in PPE essential for the COVID-19 pandemic period.[vii] Taking into account the number of dental healthcare professionals, and the average number of patients treated over the span of a year, an approximate 2 billion single use items are used in one year – with a predictably large impact on the world outside of the practice.^vii

By reducing the amount of single use products employed, and instead investing in and decontaminating reusable items, a practice could help the environment and save money in the long term without the need to consistently purchase so many items in bulk. The shift from the likes of single use chair barriers, lab coats and disposable sterilisation pouches to cloth items could save a practice up to thousands of pounds annually.[viii]Post-pandemic guidelines allow practices to make these considered choices once again.

Waste at home

Consider the items you recommend to patients for their oral care routines at home as well. Toothbrushes are a mainstay in a great oral hygiene routine, and options are growing to make them an environmentally-friendly product. In the UK, 256 million toothbrushes are estimated to be discarded every year.[ix] This number can’t be changed, but the design of toothbrush can be.

In environmental impact comparisons between toothbrushes, replaceable head plastic brushes are some of the kindest for the environment.[x] A replaceable head toothbrush effectively minimises plastic waste by reducing the single use plastic for a handle. The longevity of this part of the brush is also increased, extending its lifetime beyond the average 3 months, making it a sustainable option for patients.[xi]

Patients will require more than a toothbrush for their oral care routine. Using an interdental brush provides a significant benefit to gingival health and preventing oral disease.[xii] Similarly to toothbrushes, an effective design can reduce their environmental footprint. Those with a replaceable-head are again a beneficial option, with a minimal impact to climate change against alternative designs.

Ensuring your patients have sustainable options throughout their entire routine can protect the environment, whilst greatly improving their oral health.

For effective oral care that also looks after the planet, consider recommending the CPS Prime interdental brushes from Curaprox to your patients. CPS interdental brushes are among the finest available, with the ability to clean every inch of critical interdental space to prevent inflammation, bad breath and tooth decay. The convenient click handle system means the brushes have replaceable heads, so your patients can find the right sizes for their routines, whilst reducing their plastic waste significantly. 

Dentistry can be impactful and innovative for a patient, whilst being kinder to the world around us. It only takes simple steps to transform your practice from great, to green.

For more information, please visit www.curaprox.co.uk

[i] Rastogi, V., Sharma, R., Yadav, L., Satpute, P., & Sharma, V. (2014). Green dentistry, a metamorphosis towards an eco-friendly dentistry: A short communication. Journal of clinical and diagnostic research: JCDR, 8(7), ZM01.

[ii] Davies, S. (2022) Why eco-friendly dentistry should be a top priority for dental professionals. BDJ Team, 9, 28-29. Available at: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41407-022-0994-8

[iii] Deloitte. (2021) A call for accountability and action. The Deloitte Global 2021 Millennial and Gen Z Survey. Available at: https://www.deloitte.com/content/dam/assets-shared/legacy/docs/insights/2022/2021-deloitte-global-millennial-survey-report.pdf[Accessed May 2023]

[iv] Duane, B., Harford, S., Ramasubbu, D., Stancliffe, R., Pasdeki-Clewer, E., Lomax, R., & Steinbach, I. (2019). Environmentally sustainable dentistry: a brief introduction to sustainable concepts within the dental practice. British dental journal, 226(4), 292-295.

[v] Mittal, R., Maheshwari, R., Tripathi, S., & Pandey, S. (2020). Eco-friendly dentistry: Preventing pollution to promoting sustainability. Indian Journal of Dental Sciences, 12(4), 251.

[vi] Colella, O., Miller, M., Boone, E., Buffington‐Lester, S., Curran III, F. J., & Simmons, T. (2020). The Effect of Time and Temperature on the Persistence and Quality of Latent Fingerprints Recovered from 60‐Watt Incandescent Light Bulbs. Journal of Forensic Sciences, 65(1), 90-96.

[vii] Martin, N., Mulligan, S., Fuzesi, P., & Hatton, P. V. (2022). Quantification of single use plastics waste generated in clinical dental practice and hospital settings. Journal of Dentistry, 118, 103948.

[viii] The Eco-Dentistry Association. (n.d.) Go Green Save Green. Eco-Dentistry Association. Available at: https://ecodentistry.org/green-dentistry/what-is-green-dentistry/go-green-save-green/ [Accessed May 2023]

[ix] McCaig, P. (2023). Solutions for dentists to support your eco journey. BDJ In Practice, 36(4), 32-32.

[x] Shah, A. (2020). How eco-friendly are our toothbrushes?. British Dental Journal, 229(5), 300-301.

[xi] Pesevska, S., Ivanovski, K., Mindova, S., Kaftandzieva, A., Ristoska, S., Stefanovska, E., … & Koneski, F. (2016). Bacterial contamination of the toothbrushes. Journal of International Dental and Medical Research.

[xii] Ng, E., & Lim, L. P. (2019). An overview of different interdental cleaning aids and their effectiveness. Dentistry journal, 7(2), 56.

If a patient presents needing endodontic re-treatment following a failed or incomplete procedure, the expert team at EndoCare is here to help.

If this is not a solution you are able to offer in-house, referring your patient to EndoCare will ensure they receive first-class quality, ethical and safe treatment.

Our team consists of several endodontic specialists and experts with many decades of combined experience in the field. They have the advanced training, capabilities and confidence to take on even the most complex endodontic cases, delivering outcomes your patients will appreciate.

We will also work in collaboration with you to confirm the diagnosis and create a treatment plan that is in your patient’s best interests.

For more details, contact us at EndoCare.

For further information please call EndoCare on 020 7224 0999

Or visit www.endocare.co.uk

The Kiroku team have changed the game once again, saving you time and improving patient communication with Kiroku Docs, the new way to create clinical reports and letters that write themselves.

Access a wide range of ready-made templates that will convert your notes and records into professionally crafted documents. Consent forms, treatment planning letters, referral letters, patient information documents, and many more are readily available for all users.

Kiroku is the industry leader in dental artificial intelligence, and will automatically translate dental jargon into language your patients can easily understand. Individualised care has never been so simple.

Share documents with your patients and other dental professionals from any browser, for ease of accessibility.

To find out more about Kiroku, or to start your free trial, please visit trykiroku.com

When looking to invest in an autoclave, it is vital that you make the right decision for your dental practice. There is plenty to consider when purchasing a new autoclave – this is where support from the manufacturer proves incredibly useful. Not only should the model be appropriate for your needs, but you should also take into account the service that is provided with the product. In the rare event of a breakdown, your autoclave needs to get back up and running as soon as possible, so as to avoid excessive downtime.. The right service contract is a key consideration.

Prior to your investment

With the sheer number of models available on the market, you need appropriate guidance to make the right decision for you. You may have always used a particular autoclave model or have been recommended one by a peer – regardless, it is always worthwhile seeing what other options there are for you. The choice can be overwhelming, which is why you should contact the manufacturer for further guidance. Leading product providers are dedicated to ensuring you receive the right help. They will take the time to walk you through their product offerings to make sure you are well-informed before making your decision.

No two dental practices are the same – that includes their size in addition to their patient footfall, the services they offer and the volume of instruments that are required for sterilisation. Autoclaves are available as types ‘B’ and ‘N’, with models available that provide the choice between both ‘B’’ and ‘N’ cycles – leading manufacturers will ensure that you are well-matched to the autoclave you are considering.

Don’t forget about the service offerings

An equally important consideration when making an investment such as this is whether the manufacturer provides extended support that suits your needs and requirements – this is something you should be looking out for when researching autoclaves and their manufacturers. All autoclave units will come with a warranty, but doing your research will ensure you choose the one that offers the best additional benefits for the years following the warranty. In fact, the right service and maintenance plan would help to extend the working life of your autoclave, in addition to helping you to remain compliant to HTM-0105/SDCEP standards and minimising downtime should a breakdown occur.

Breakdowns are an unfortunate reality of owning any kind of equipment in a dental practice, but with the right service and maintenance plan you can gain much-needed peace of mind that in times of emergency, you are covered. It is always best to be prepared for the event of a malfunction, and ensure the manufacturer is committed to providing a rapid response in times of need. Some manufacturers may not only offer this, but also include an annual validation and pressure vessel certification, which are legal requirements. Plus, you may receive free software upgrades and Enhanced CPD User training, so your autoclave software is always up-to-date. Leading equipment manufacturers will ensure their customers are educated on the product’s use and features and what is included, for total transparency so you can make an informed decision.

Post-sale support

Once you have purchased your autoclave, the support from the manufacturer should certainly not end once you have received your equipment – in fact, this is where the right manufacturer will play a significant role. In the rare event of an emergency, having access to on-site and technical telephone support can be vital to minimise downtime.

Eschmann has long been a leading name in infection control, providing high-quality decontamination systems to the dental sector. They also provide Care & Cover, a comprehensive service offering that includes: Annual Validation and Pressure Vessel Certification, Unlimited Breakdown Cover from their team of over 50 engineers nationwide, Unlimited Eschmann Parts and Labour and Enhanced CPD User Training.

A long-standing Eschmann customer comments: “[Eschmann] equipment is something you buy if you are looking for quality and long-term reliability – when you buy an autoclave from Eschmann you receive an exceptional level of support that you don’t often get from other manufacturers. The Care & Cover service gives you peace of mind, too.”

Rely on your autoclave and your service contract

Purchasing a new autoclave for your practice is a big investment, one that you must get right to ensure you can protect your patients and staff from harm. The right manufacturer will not only provide a high-quality, reliable and durable autoclave, but will also ensure you are adequately supported before, during and long after the transaction has completed, for total peace of mind.

For more information on the highly effective and affordable range of decontamination equipment and products from Eschmann, please visit www.eschmann.co.uk/decontamination-guidance/ or call 01903 875787

If you can only exhibit at one event in 2024, make it BDIA Dental Showcase. 

• A dedicated Trade Committee is providing first-hand insight to help us make the 2024 event as productive, efficient and high-quality as possible for all our exhibitors.
• It’s the first event of the year, so it’s an excellent chance to get your latest products, services and equipment out in the market.
• The right audience will be in attendance – 71% of attendees in 2023 were dentists and practice owners, demonstrating the significant purchasing power in the room.
• It’s cost-effective compared to other events – especially when you add the 30% discount exclusively available for all BDIA members.

BDIA Dental Showcase is first and foremost an exhibition. The dental profession primarily come to test and buy products and equipment. Don’t miss this opportunity to get your innovations in front of them – save the dates! To find out more information about prices, packages and stand availability, please go to:  https://dentalshowcase.com/exhibitor-enquiry-form-pr.

BDIA Dental Showcase 2024
22^nd-23^rd March
ExCeL London
dentalshowcase.com

The landscape of dental care continues to advance at unprecedented speeds. Keep up with AI Insights from Carestream Dental, the innovative tool transforming the diagnosis process.

AI Insights is designed to fit into your current workflow, examining panoramic x-ray images in a matter of clicks. Intelligent image analysis can identify pathological and non-pathological conditions, creating a report that is instantly filed into a patient’s history, saving you one more job.

An intuitive user interface creates colour-coded findings that aren’t just easy for you to review, adding or rejecting any results you want, but they are also effective for communications with patients. The software could help improve case acceptance rates, as those in the chair gain a better understanding of their need for treatment.

The AI Insights cloud-based system completely removes the need to wait around for tedious software updates. Instead, the tools do so automatically, ensuring you always have the latest features at your fingertips.

Find out more about how AI can transform your workflow by contacting the Carestream Dental team today.

For more information on Carestream Dental visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

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