The BACD Annual Conference 2025 delivered cosmetic dental education with flair this year. From hands-on workshops, to internationally recognised speakers, product discovery, networking, and dancing – the event had it all!
Demonstrating how the Conference stands up to expectations year after year, Dr Odette Lazarus from 19 Dentistry shares her experience as a BACD member for more than 20 years: “I attend the Annual Conference to hear from great speakers and to network with colleagues. The highlights of 2025 for me have been the content on digital dentistry and composites. It is also a benefit to have the hands-on workshops at the event too, allowing me to discover new materials and reinforcing what I know about aesthetic dentistry.”
With a local dance group setting a high-energy and exuberant tone for the day, the main programme took attendees on a journey that compared composite and ceramic techniques for restorative success. Championing direct resin, Dr Jason Smithson showcased its ability to blend with the nuanced beauty of natural enamel, highlighting its opalescence, and how well it mimics perikymata and subtle colour variations. A highly engaging speaker, Jason offered a wealth of practical tips for treating discoloured anterior teeth, covering a broad range of case examples to illustrate practical implications.
Dr Bob Winter was next on stage, this time emphasising the benefits of ceramic indirect restorations and the “transformative” impact these can have on patients. While exploring the decades of literature available in the field, Bob reminded his captivated audience that clinicians must “look beyond the teeth” to see the patient as a whole. Dual-qualified, he was perfectly positioned to discuss the clinical and technical implications of different restorative approaches, advocating the right blend of strength and aesthetics for exceptional treatment outcomes.
Attendee Dr Jayesh Bharath said: “I enjoyed the extremely engaging talk on what is possible with composite from Dr Jason Smithson, who shared some serious knowledge whilst keeping it tangible. It was a great session for all levels.”
Attendee Dr Bettie-Lenore Bronkhorst from Mannamead Cosmetic Dental Centre also had nothing but great things to say about the day: “I’ve been a BACD member for more than 25 years and have attended the Conference many times. This year has been very good – I particularly enjoyed Jason Smithson’s session as it was interesting to see different ways of layering. It’s been useful to pick up lots of clinical tips and to engage with the trade in the exhibition.”
It wasn’t just long-time members who praised the event, with Dr Ahmed Al-Khadder commenting: “This was my first time at the BACD Annual Conference and I have really enjoyed meeting so many people at the forefront of modern dentistry. The talks were engaging and I have definitely come away with lots of tips and innovations that I can try to incorporate into my clinical work.”
The theme was extended on Saturday, when Dr Federico Brunner delivered another well-received seminar on facially-driven full mouth rehabilitation. His personality shone through as he discussed how he approaches different cases to ensure facial integration with the new smile. Federico went on to explore the core pillars of full mouth rehabilitation cases, including digitalisation of the patient assessment, data analysis, patient communication, controlled execution and so much more.
Dr Sasha Hein and Dr Sandra Hulac later spoke indepth about tooth colour analysis and injectable composites, respectively. Both speakers offered unique insights into their own workflows, with a clear passion for elevating standards across the profession by way of implementing clinical-proven techniques that deliver highly predictable and aesthetics outcomes.
The educational programme was once again complemented by an array of hands-on workshops, which afforded practical instruction and one-to-one support for attendees as they improved their skills in 3D printing, injectable composites, and several other treatment modalities.
Dr Harpreet Johal from the Bush Dental Clinic reflected on Dr Sandra Hulac’s workshop, saying: “Firstly, what a woman! Secondly, the hands-on course was amazing; very thorough, step-by-step guide on a new technique for myself. She made it very interesting with lots of useful tips, which I will be taking into practice. It’s my first BACD Annual Conference, and I will be returning and recommending it to others. The students and their enthusiasm have been great, and they are super helpful too!”
The trade exhibition was another popular pitstop for attendees, who had the opportunity to interact with product developers and suppliers directly for even more information and tailored advice on how to elevate their own armamentariums.
And, of course, no BACD Annual Conference would be complete without the dazzling Gala Dinner. This year’s event was no exception, with everyone changing into their finest attire to enjoy a glittering night at the museum with great food, excellent entertainment, and even better company. During the evening, the BACD Rising Star Essay competition winner was also announced – congratulations to Elisa Aslam!
The BACD Annual Conference 2025 was a celebration of both technical mastery and aesthetic finesse in ethical restorative dentistry. It provided a dedicated platform for professionals to discover new techniques, exchanges ideas, be inspired, and engage with likeminded colleagues keen to elevate their craft. To be a part of the BACD community and enjoy future Annual Conferences, as well as many other educational and networking events, join the BACD today!
For further information and enquiries about the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry visit www.bacd.com
