Dental implantology enables all members of the dental team to build a dynamic and fulfilling career. True success relies on continuous clinical training, professional networking, and technological investment. The Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) understands this and is committed to supporting professional education in the field for the benefit of the general public.
As part of this mission, the association was delighted to host the ADI Implantology Zone and Theatre at this year’s BDIA Dental Showcase. This was an excellent opportunity to present world-class clinicians as they discussed a broad range of relevant topics that included clinical techniques, digital workflows, emerging concepts, dental implant team utilisation, and more.
ADI Past President, Amit Patel, opened the programme with an enthusiastic session on the power of connective tissue grafting. During this, he explored the collection and implementation of connective tissue grafts in order to enhance the long-term prognosis of implants. Amit went on to discuss several surgical techniques in detail with practical advice to help colleagues achieve functional, stable, and aesthetic outcomes for different patients.
Among the popular seminars that followed was Fiona Mackillop addressing the issue of peri-implantitis, debating whether the profession has accepted the inevitable complication, or if teams are willing and able to do something about it. Throughout the session, the need for new products that are specifically designed to support implant maintenance became clear. Fiona also emphasised the importance of making patients understand the role of oral hygiene post-implant placement for long-term success.
Attendee Jelena Djordjevic said of the session:
“The content was very relevant and current. The speaker was very knowledgeable and experienced in the field, and her presentation was confident and clear. Just the right amount of detail was delivered for the time available. I attended because I’m fairly new to implantology and the ADI Theatre at BDIA Dental Showcase allows me to see what’s new and to network. The implant programme was key for me, and it has been very good.”
With digital technology transforming the discipline completely in recent years, the two-day programme also featured several opportunities to discuss the options and potential of key innovations in the field. Jimmy Makdissi of the Makdissi Group advocated for the use of CBCT imaging as an essential tool in the case assessment, diagnosis, and planning of implant treatment. He offered practical insight into the use of CBCT units, discussing current applications in dentistry and the legal responsibilities clinicians should be aware of with regards to interpretation and reporting.
The digital theme continued with sessions on guided implants with Joanna Sutcliffe, digital planning with Sharif Khan, and AI-enabled software with Raid Ali – supported by the ADI, Nobel Biocare, and Carestream Dental, respectively. The latter took attendees on a journey from the very beginnings of dental implantology to the cutting-edge discipline it is today. He explored the importance of AI-driven software that facilitates automation and that integrates several functionalities in order to optimise workflow efficiency. He demonstrated the benefits of utilising such technology with real-time videos of its use in his own practice.
Ensuring content for dental professionals at all stages of their implant career, the programme offered impressive variety and depth. Dental team members were catered to with sessions like that delivered by dental therapist Linzy Baker, who discussed how “success is a team sport”. Sticking with the sporting analogy, Linzy described how each team member contributes to long-term implant treatment outcomes, from preparing the patient ahead of surgery to maintaining their oral health long after.
Dental technician, Kristina Vaitelyte, also offered new perspectives on implant treatment planning, sharing her extensive expertise to encourage delegates to combine artistic vision with digital precision for exceptional patient outcomes. She focused on how important it is to ensure that the right data is shared between dentist and dental technician for the successful restoration of dental implants. She advised dental technicians in the audience “…don’t be afraid to challenge dentists” where there may be a better solution for the patient. Collaboration and transparent communication are key to building a strong relationship and ensuring that every patient receives the very best care.
Outside of the theatre, the exhibition featured implant-related product suppliers and manufacturers keen to demonstrate the latest solutions available to clinicians and team members. Attendees were able to discover new components, seek bespoke advice from experts, and network with like-minded professionals who had first-hand experience to share.
If you have an appetite for introducing dental implants or advancing in the field, the ADI provides the perfect community in which to develop. The new Fellowship Pathway ensures members have access to the resources and support they need for each stage of their career. Find out more today!
For more information about the ADI, visit www.adi.org.uk
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