For orthodontic patients, particularly self-conscious teenagers, braces pose a notable drawback: they are instantly visible. An easier alternative, one that traditionally needs fewer appointments, is Invisalign, which has made orthodontic appliances almost undetectable to other people. This can make it more appealing to those worried about their appearance, whilst still providing excellent results.
Dr Mark Hughes is a highly regarded, award-winning cosmetic dentist with a particular focus on Invisalign treatments. Based between luxury clinics in Chelsea and Beaconsfield, Dr Hughes has over 33 years of clinical practice experience and has completed over 2,000 ortho-restorative treatments. He reflects on this journey:
“I delivered my first Invisalign treatment in 2004, just as it was slowly emerging as an orthodontic option in the UK. I envisaged then that the digital planning and workflow would continue to evolve so that we could accurately and visually demonstrate to patients what could be achieved with their smile. In the time since, this has happened. I also hoped that the efficacy and predictability of Invisalign would significantly increase – it has in spades.
“There are always notable considerations with orthodontic treatments, and Invisalign is no different. The system is excellent and helps us, as clinicians, to achieve excellent orthodontic and ortho-restorative outcomes, but the planning of our cases and the understanding of how Invisalign uses biomechanics are up to the clinicians to learn and become adept it. Only then can we work towards achieving mastery. It’s always worth remembering that Invisalign are not the dentists or the orthodontists; they only provide us with an amazing platform to help plan and deliver excellent treatment outcomes for our patients – the rest is up to us.”
A deep dive into treatment planning
At the BACD 21st Annual Conference, Dr Hughes will be delivering a lecture titled “Ortho-restorative Treatment Planning with Invisalign, Smile Architect & Exocad.” He expands on its content:
“The session will be a deep dive into planning your ortho-restorative cases using the Align Digital Platform. You will learn how to visually demonstrate alignment plus restorative solutions for patients at the consultation stage, improving understanding and acceptance. By adopting this technology, you will know how to design and predictably produce direct and indirect restorative outcomes.
“There are three key learning objectives to the talk. First, to learn the ideal workflow at the consultation stage for a more streamlined patient journey. Next, to use Smile Architect to demonstrate restorative outcomes, and, finally to optimise restorative outcomes using digital workflows. These, I hope, will change the daily workflow going forwards, ensuring that every patient routinely has an equal experience that emphasises the possibilities and benefits of comprehensive dentistry – chiefly excellent treatment outcomes, which is what every patient deserves.”
A valuable ally
As an Accredited Member of the BACD, Dr Hughes has a long and distinguished career with the organisation. He shares the importance it has played and the value of the Annual Conference:
“Working towards Accreditation and meeting the standards that the BACD requires was the best thing I’ve done in my career. The challenges, and overcoming them, set me up for a career of fulfilment and achieving a respected professional reputation. The BACD has constantly been a valuable ally as a clinician, and the network of colleagues provide support along the whole journey.
“The BACD 21st Annual Conference is an immense resource for dental professionals with an interest in cosmetic dentistry. It gathers people from all over the UK – as well as many international speakers – to create an environment rich in education and excitement. It is the perfect place to meet like-minded colleagues and to learn from masters in cosmetic and restorative dentistry, all of whom are approachable and are willing to share their knowledge and experience for the collective good of the profession, as well as the BACD as a whole. I am looking forward to attending and catching up on the latest developments in cosmetic dentistry.”
One of the many high points of the BACD Annual Conference is the programme of social events. Following a day of lectures, workshops and exploring the trade show, attendees can wind down with the ever-memorable Gala Dinner, where luxury food, fun entertainment and plenty of drink all come together for an evening of fun and limitless networking opportunities. Don’t miss out – mark the BACD 21st Annual Conference in your calendar today.
BACD 21st Annual Conference
6-8 November 2025
The Lowry Arts Centre, Salford Quays, Manchester
Pre-sale tickets available at bacd.com
