dentistry

Dental Complaints Service 2019 performance review and research published

Three reports, all relating to the Dental Complaints Service (DCS), have been published.

The reports, which consider the performance, efficacy and social value offered by the DCS – the free and impartial private dental care complaints resolution service – are:

  • The DCS Review 2019
  • Research report: Social Return on Investment of the DCS
  • Research report: DCS Survey of Dental Professional Users

Together, the three reports indicate the improved performance and significant support for the assistance provided by the DCS to patients, practices, and dental professionals.

While recognising the impact that COVID-19 has had, and continues to have, on every aspect of society, the GDC says it is seeking to make progress where it is safe and reasonable to do so, which includes the publication of research which was undertaken before the pandemic struck.

The DCS Review 2019 and the DCS research reports are available to read in detail online.

Mouthwash that minimises airborne infection

CleanCert Ltd is highlighting the properties of its mouthwash, OraWize+ which reduces the risk posed by aerosol generating procedures and assists biofilm management during general and specialist dental treatment.

99.9999% effective against known pathogens, OraWize+ has a highly effective oxidising action – a property shown in studies from Wuhan to be required for the effective killing of Covid-19 in the mouth and in aerosols –  and destroys harmful micro-organisms by disrupting their RNA (like DNA) which in turn kills their cell structure.

The product’s active ingredient has been tested against the stringent BS EN 14476, which evaluates virucidal activity in non-enveloped viruses, such as norovirus, and more friable enveloped viruses, such as HIV, influenza and coronaviruses. It has also been confirmed as a biocide by UK regulators – defined in European legislation as a “chemical substance or microorganism intended to destroy, deter, render harmless, or exert a controlling effect on any harmful organism”.

Mick Armstrong, BDA Chair, said: “We welcome the development of products that can be used to reduce viral load. As an adjunct to appropriate PPE, they can offer additional protection to colleagues treating patients during the pandemic.”

The mouthwash irrigant is temporarily available from CleanCert in 5L quantities at half price for use as an oxidizing biocidal mouthwash by dental teams offering emergency dental care. The product is nontoxic and free from alcohol, chlorhexidine and parabens.

Eklund Foundation for Odontological Research and Education open for applications during May 2020

Eklund Foundation

Applications for grants from Eklund Foundation are accepted on the website eklundfoundation.org from 1 – 31 May. Funds of EUR 200,000 have been allocated for distribution in 2020.

Experimental and clinical studies within all fields of dentistry are welcome, though projects that can be related to periodontology, implantology or cariology will be prioritised. Applicants may apply for funding for part of a project or a project in its entirety. The successful projects will be announced in the autumn of 2020.

The Eklund Foundation was created through a donation from the Eklund family, owners of TePe Oral Hygiene Products, in celebration of their long-standing relationship with the professional dental community. The foundation will now distribute grants for the fifth year running. 

Projects supported in previous years include, for example, studies in periodontology and implantology carried out in Italy, the Netherlands, Serbia, Spain, Sweden, the UK and the USA. More information on previous projects can be found on the website. 

‘Truly valued’

“The practice team and I would like to extend a big thank you to Denka,” says Mrs Rumana Moosajee from Oakdale Dental. “We love the new approach Denka has taken and have been very impressed with its excellent service. We not only feel special to be part of the company, but we also feel we can really trust Denka.

“It was great to have a representative visit our practice and explain the various products on offer, which have been priced very well. We are truly valued and looked after, particularly as Denka sent us chocolate with our order!”

 

For more information, visit www.denkauk.com, call on 0800 707 6212 or email: hello@denkauk.com

How your favourite tipple could be changing the bacteria in your mouth… and it’s not good news

Just one alcoholic drink a day changes the balance of bacteria in the mouth and can lead to a range of diseases from tooth decay to cancer, a new study has revealed.

Researchers looking at the effects of alcohol on oral health discovered drinking habits influence the types of bacteria that reside in the mouth, with higher numbers of so-called ‘bad bacteria’ found in those who consume alcohol daily.

Scientists tested saliva samples from more than 1,000 adults and found that, compared to non-drinkers, those who had one or more alcoholic drinks per day saw a reduction of healthy bacteria in the mouth, with a significant increase of harmful bacteria also detected.

Such changes could contribute to alcohol-related diseases such as gum disease, tooth decay, head and neck cancer, and digestive tract cancers.

The Oral Health Foundation wants to raise awareness about the dangers of alcohol and the impact that regular consumption can have on the mouth and overall health.

Dr Nigel Carter OBE, Chief Executive of the Oral Health Foundation, said: “There are hundreds of different types of bacteria in the mouth and they all play a highly significant role in a person’s wellbeing. These bacteria are finely balanced and important for maintaining everything from the immune system and how the body deals with pollution in the environment, to protecting the teeth and gums and aiding with digestion after eating and drinking.

“The bacterial imbalance from drinking alcohol can cause serious problems in the mouth, such as gum disease, as well as increase the risk of head and neck cancer and heart disease.”

The study also found the type of alcohol consumed also affects the type bacteria in the mouth, with researchers testing wine, beers and spirits.

They found that wine drinkers produce more bacteria responsible for gum disease when compared to non-drinkers while those who consume beer produce an increase in bacteria that are linked to dental decay.

Researchers were able to show that alcohol consumption is associated with decreased abundance of Lactobacillales, a bacterium beneficial to oral health by reducing the risk of tooth decay. They also found that alcohol suppresses the growth of pathogens that can help reduce gum inflammation.

“A number of high profile studies have previously pointed to the dangers around drinking alcohol to excess but this research offers an additional cause for concern,” added Dr Carter.

“It is therefore important to be aware of the effects that even moderate alcohol consumption can have on oral and overall health, if drinking is sustained over a prolonged period of time.

“The best way for somebody to protect themselves from alcohol-related disease is to drink moderately, both in volume and frequency.

“It is also especially important that before bed, teeth are brushed correctly after drinking alcohol. Don’t allow the bad bacteria to build up overnight.

“By giving the mouth a good clean last thing at night, bacteria in the saliva can be neutralised and help prevent any unwanted oral health or general health problems.”

BOS encourages patients to enter Against the Odds award 2018

The British Orthodontic Society’s Against The Odds award showcases the transformative power of braces by identifying the best account of orthodontic treatment told by a patient. Entries are now being encouraged for the deadline of 31 August 2018.

Patients who enter the award should describe in five hundred words their experience of treatment, explaining how the final outcome was achieved “against the odds” and how their specialist supported them through the treatment.

Sponsored by Ormco, the award is open to children and adults and is now in its 12th year. The most recent winner was 17-year-old Lubo Rnic. (www.bos.org.uk/Public-Patients/Against-the-Odds/Against-the-Odds-Lubos-Story)

Lubo’s orthodontic treatment was carried out by Bristol-based orthodontist Dr Peter Thomas after speech and language therapist Sarah Barnett suggested that orthodontics could help Lubo.

The first prize is £750 worth of travel vouchers for the patient while the orthodontist is awarded with a trophy. To download the entry form: www.bos.org.uk/Public-Patients/Against-the-Odds

Dental Protection: Good record keeping key in phase-down of dental amalgam

Dental Protection is reminding dentists in the UK to maintain good clinical records and obtain full consent if a decision is made to use amalgam as a restorative material, ahead of changes to EU Regulations on its use.

The EU Mercury Regulation is intended to protect the environment from the adverse effects of mercury pollution. It reflects the aims of the Minamata Treaty to reduce the use of dental amalgam in the medium to long term, and to eventually phase it out altogether.

From 1 July 2018 amalgam is not to be used in primary teeth, children under 15 years and during pregnancy/breastfeeding – except if deemed necessary on the ground of ‘specific medical needs’. This should be interpreted as including the specific dental needs of the patient.

By 1 July 2019 the UK and other EU member states will be required to have a national plan on the phasing down of the use of dental amalgam.

Dental Protection advises members to take extra care in obtaining consent and record keeping, to help in defending any future claims, complaints or regulatory investigations that may arise from the use of amalgam in the restricted groups.

Dr Raj Rattan, Dental Director at Dental Protection, said: “Complaints and claims may arise despite a dentist’s efforts to ensure that patients are satisfied with their treatment. Therefore, in situations such as these extra care needs to be taken.

“If a dentist deems it appropriate to use amalgam in a patient in one of the restricted groups, they must communicate the rationale to the patient, or the person who has parental responsibility for them, explain why the decision is in the patient’s best interest, and provide information about the material risks and benefits of amalgam in that particular situation. Valid consent must then be obtained ensuring they are aware of the restriction in specific patient groups.

“In order for the patient or their guardian‘s consent to be valid, they should be given the opportunity and time to ask questions about the proposed treatment to make an informed shared decision.

“Once the decision has been agreed, the justification for placing the amalgam should then be recorded in the patient’s clinical records, along with any discussions about the options, risks, benefits and costs as part of the consent process.

“Records should state clearly on what basis the decision to use amalgam in one of the restricted groups was taken, and that it was made with the patient or guardian’s full knowledge and understanding.”

The use of amalgam is so far not restricted in patients who do not fall into the identified groups. However, patients with knowledge of the restriction may express anxieties about the use of dental amalgam in their own mouths.

In these circumstances Dental Protection advises members to discuss the position of the EU Regulation with the patient, explain the risks and benefits, discuss any alternatives and ensure proper consent is obtained before proceeding with the treatment. Details of this discussion should be recorded in the patient’s records.

Dr Raj Rattan added: “Without proper consent and comprehensive, well-kept records, a dentist will be heavily disadvantaged in defending any allegations made down the line. Detailed records of treatment will influence whether a case can be defended or whether it will need to be settled. Dental Protection can provide members with further advice and guidance.”

Henry Schein Orthodontics presents fourth Annual European Carriere Symposium in Paris

Henry Schein Orthodontics, the orthodontics business of Henry Schein, Inc., has announced its fourth Annual European Carriere Symposium that will take place from 20-22 September 2018 in Paris, France, at the Hyatt Regency Paris Etoile Hotel.

The symposium will focus on the latest technologies and evidence-based treatment protocols to achieve an entirely new level of orthodontic excellence. Attendees will have the chance to learn about new and innovative concepts and tools that make a total-health difference in the lives of patients. From the ground-breaking SAGITTAL FIRST Philosophy to the new Carriere SLX 3D Complete Bracket System and Carriere MOTION 3D Appliances, renowned speakers will present innovative concepts to help diagnose and establish treatment plans. They will share proven strategies that increase clinical efficiency, shorten treatment time, and help achieve extraordinary long-term results.

The keynote speakers and inventor of the Carriere Philosophy, Dr. Luis Carrière, will focus on evidence-based clinical solutions for the treatment of complex class II and III cases.

“Innovations in our profession are ranging from equipment and new tools to treatment concepts that positively impact every aspect of how we achieve consistently, clinical excellence while enhancing the patient experience,” said Dr. Carrière. “Therefore, it is crucial to be open to new concepts, embrace innovations that deliver dental, facial and total health results that exceed patients’ expectations. With a simple, bonded biomimetic device such as MOTION 3D Appliances, for instance, utilising the SAGITTAL FIRST Philosophy orthodontists can reposition the mandible, expand the airway and balance the relationship between the nose, upper and lower lips and chin for enhancing facial harmony – either for Class II or Class III cases. This results in a non-invasive approach to face and health-driven orthodontics that greatly reduces extractions and surgery and thus the need for interdisciplinary therapy for the good of patients. I am convinced that orthodontists play a social importance in people’s lives.”

Dr. Luis Carrière will be supported by the programme chairman, Dr. Dave Paquette, who is also Henry Schein Orthodontics’ lead clinical advisor and presenter of “The Evolution of Self-Litigation”, and featured speaker Dr. John Graham, who will talk about how “SAGITTAL FIRST will transform today’s orthodontic practice”, along with an impressive line-up of world-renowned speakers.

Additional speakers and topics include:

  • Dr. Ana Maria Cantor (Spain) Simplification of Class II and Class III Corrections Treatment Protocol
  • Dr. Peri Colino (Spain): CBCT in Orthodontics: Advance 3D Solutions
  • Dr. Francesco Garino (Italy): Aligner therapy simplified: Fewer trays, less time, better results.
  • Dr. Antonio Guiducci (Italy): SAGITTAL FIRSTTM with passive self-ligation: Transforming today’s orthodontic practice.
  • Dr. Glenn Krieger (USA): Increased case acceptance, amazing clinical images, and lower stress.
  • Dr. Jep Paschal (USA): SAGITTAL FIRSTTM treatment approach explained.
  • Dr. Olivier Setmon (France): The benefits of achieving a Class I platform in mixed dentition.
  • Dr. Norihid Tsubura (Japan): Shifting the way we approach complex cases, by turning them into simple cases.

The presentations will be held in English and Spanish and simultaneously translated into French. Breakout sessions will be offered in French, Spanish and English. A breakout session will be dedicated for hands-on exercises.

At the symposium’s exhibition area, a broad spectrum of the latest innovations and new clinical solutions will be showcased, focusing on the integrated processes of the digital orthodontics workflow, including intraoral scanning, digital imaging, clinical orthodontic planning, and 3D printing.

In addition, networking will be available to allow orthodontists the opportunity to share their experiences with other peer professionals from around the world.

As in prior years, the event is expected to sell-out, bringing together leading orthodontic speakers and forward-thinking attendees in a powerful learning environment. To register, visit www.carrieresymposium.com

Dental Awards winners revealed!

The prestigious Dental Awards event took place this evening (Friday) at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole, celebrating the hard work, commitment and passion of hundreds of dental professionals from across the UK.

There were 21 different awards presented throughout the night, with around 10 finalists in each category. Below is a list of the winners, and the finalists that were chosen as Commended or Highly Commended.

Outstanding Achievement Award

Professor Liz Kay OBE

 

Best National Smile Month Event

Winner – University of Glasgow Dental School

Highly Commended – Boundaries for Life

 

Dentist of the Year

Winner – Gary Stacey

Highly Commended – Patrik Zachrisson

Commended – Andrew Taylor

 

Young Dentist of the Year – South

Winner – Andrew Wilson

Highly Commended – Andre Faro Leite

Commended – Kamil Ahmed

 

Young Dentist of the Year – North & Central

Winner – Affan Saghir

Highly Commended – Nigel Parkash

Commended – Michael Hicks

 

National Young Dentist of the Year

Winner – Andrew Wilson

 

Dental Therapist of the Year

Winner – Amy Hills

Highly Commended – Suzanne Morton

 

Dental Hygienist of the Year

Winner – Jocelyn Harding

Highly Commended – Gulab Singh

Highly Commended – Renate Putrus

 

Website & Digital Campaign of the Year

Winner – Narberth & Herbrandston Dental Practices

Highly Commended – London Hygienist

 

Dental Nurse of the Year – South

Winner – Rebecca Silver

Highly Commended – Alisha Shaw

 

Dental Nurse of the Year – North & Central

Winner – Joanne Speight

Highly Commended – Catriona Thornton

 

National Dental Nurse of the Year

Winner – Joanne Speight

 

Dental Practice of the Year – South

Winner – Pure Periodontics

Highly Commended – Bow Lane Dental Group

 

Dental Practice of the Year – North & Central

Winner – Andrea Uhbi Dentistry

Highly Commended – Revive Dental Care

 

National Dental Practice of the Year

Winner – Pure Periodontics

 

Dental Practice Manager of the Year

Winner – Lesley Holden

Highly Commended – Hannah Haines

Highly Commended – Mariana Sadowska

 

Dental Practice Team of the Year – South

Winner – Imogen Dental

Highly Commended – The Wessex Dental Specialist Centre

Highly Commended – Wensleydale Dental Practice

 

Dental Practice Team of the Year – North & Central

Winner – Andrea Ubhi Dentistry

Highly Commended – Sharoe Green Dental Practice

Highly Commended – New Road Dental

 

National Dental Practice Team of the Year

Winner – Andrea Ubhi Dentistry

 

Dental Practice Design & Interiors

Winner – Sorriso Dentistry

Highly Commended – Novos Dental Clinic

Commended – The Sandford

Commended – Happy Kids Dental

 

Dental Receptionist of the Year

Winner – Emma Hobbs

Highly Commended – Sarah Singleton

 

Huge congratulations to all the winners and finalists this year!

Testing the water with your infection control knowledge

Have you ever wondered how up to date you and your colleagues are regarding infection control and water lines in your practice?

CleanCert, which specialises in developing innovative dental infection control and water purification products, is providing you with the perfect opportunity to test your infection control knowledge via a thought-provoking survey.

To be launched at this year’s Dentistry Show in Birmingham, held later this week on 18 and 19 May, this simple survey will help dental professionals understand what is required of them to achieve ‘best practice’, as well as enabling CleanCert to tailor a programme to support customers going forward.

Commenting on this exciting new project, Simon Davies, Managing Director, said: ‘Those of us working in dentistry know that there’s more to infection control that meets the eye, and there is more to CleanCert, too. Whilst our products meet all of the practice’s health and safety needs, all the while achieving ‘best practice’ safely, easily and cost-effectively, we know there’s more to be done.

“That is why we created this survey, in an effort to gain a greater understanding of the realities of infection control and water lines in dental practice for those working at the ‘coal face’. Once we have collected and analysed the data, we at CleanCert will be able to offer our customers a greater level of service than ever before, because we will have a better understanding of the limitations and challenges facing the dental team in their pursuit of ‘best practice’.”

To take part, simply pop by stand H100 – where you can be sure of a warm welcome – or complete the survey at https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/DL23GKK before the end of June 2018.

What’s more, anyone who completes the survey before the cut-off date will be entered into a prize draw to win a luxury spa day for two at a Mercure Hotel.

For further details, visit cleancert.co.uk, email sales@cleancert.co.uk or call 08443 511115.