orthodontics

BOS Conference: Dr Michael Mosley and the ‘Science behind the Smile’

On 16 September 2022, Dr Michael Mosley shared his personal and family experiences of orthodontics and the science behind the benefits of smiling at The British Orthodontic Society’s annual conference in Birmingham.

He highlighted research in The Journal of Experimental Psychology that revealed how even a fake smile can have a positive impact on mood by triggering certain facial muscles that ‘trick’ your brain into thinking you’re happy.  

Never before has there been such a strong desire for a smile that not only feels healthy but looks good as well.  Statistics from The British Orthodontic Society show that the demand for orthodontics continues to rise with 75% of orthodontists reporting an increase in patients. 

There is a growing concern about the number of quick dental solutions on the market. These are often found online and lead to people performing their own dental work at home.

Alongside the Oral Health Foundation, The British Orthodontic Society has launched Safe Smiles – a charity campaign by that gives unbiased, trusted and expert advice about dental treatments.

Nikki Atack, BOS President, said: “As the demand for orthodontics increases, so do the options available.  There’s a huge growth in online companies offering orthodontic treatments at significantly reduced prices. For many patients, it may feel like a sensible consumer-savvy choice. But this may not be the case.  We want to ensure patients are given the very best advice about the safest and most effective way to have orthodontic treatment.”

“All my family has benefited from orthodontic treatment, so I was delighted to speak at the British Orthodontic Society Conference this year,” said Dr Mosley. “A big smile that can light up the room will not only make you feel good but other people as well.”

3M Oral Care to showcase orthodontic solutions at BOS

Modern orthodontic treatment is so much more than correcting smiles. It is about harnessing the most innovative solutions on the market, giving patients aesthetic options and ensuring that everyone can receive treatment that is tailored to their needs.

That’s why 3M Oral Care will be showcasing its unique orthodontic solutions at this year’s British Orthodontic Conference, taking place in Manchester on September 15 2021.

Delegates will be able to have a closer look at products such as the 3M Incognito Appliance System – a truly bespoke option that offers predictable outcomes and excellent aesthetics during treatment due to its lingual placement.

So, when you’re at the conference, be sure to come and see what 3M has to offer!

For more information, call 0845 873 4066 or visit www.3m.co.uk/Dental 

3M representatives remain contactable by phone or via video conferencing.

GDC publishes statement on direct-to-consumer orthodontics and supporting information for dental professionals

The General Dental Council (GDC) has today published an updated statement in relation to direct-to-consumer orthodontics which highlights issues dental professionals – particularly those working in the remote provision of orthodontics – need to consider.

The statement is based on three main requirements:

  1. In line with current authoritative clinical guidance, and orthodontic training, clinical judgements about the suitability of a proposed course of orthodontic treatment must be based on a full assessment of the patient’s oral health. At present, there is no effective substitute for a physical, clinical examination as the foundation for that assessment. Should a dentist rely upon information from another source to inform their own clinical judgement, the responsibility for that judgement rests wholly with the prescribing dentist.
  2. Direct interaction between patient and practitioner – whether in person or remotely – is essential for providing patients with the opportunity to ask questions, provide valid and informed consent, and be satisfied that the course of treatment proposed is likely to meet their needs and expectations.
  3. Patients must know the full name of the dental professional responsible for their treatment and be able to make direct contact with that person if they need to.

GDC Executive Director, Strategy, Stefan Czerniawski, said: “Traditionally, healthcare is delivered in person – patient and clinician sitting in the same room discussing treatment options and agreeing on a way forward. New technology is challenging that norm and we support innovation wherever it safely brings benefits to the patient. But safety is absolutely key and new ways of doing things must not compromise well-established safety measures which are designed to protect patients.

“Our statement highlights a number of issues that dental professionals working in remote models of treatment will need to consider. One of the main things to remember though, as is the case in any other setting, it remains the treating dentist who is responsible for ensuring they have met all of the Standards for the Dental Team.”

In addition to the statement, the GDC has also published information to support dental professionals in exercising professional judgement.

Should professionals have any questions or concerns in relation to their practice, they should seek further advice from their indemnifier or professional association. The GDC says it will continue to monitor developments in this area.

The GDC has also developed a social media toolkit to help dental practices communicate with their patients about these important issues. 

BOS Response

In response, the British Orthodontic Society (BOS) has wholeheartedly welcomed the GDC statement and accompanying guidance for both patients and professionals regarding direct-to-consumer orthodontic treatment.

BOS members have long warned of concerns about direct-to-consumer orthodontics. The most recent members’ survey from last month (April 2021) showed that 82% of members were concerned about more patients seeking DIY orthodontics during the pandemic, and 98.92% wanted to see the GDC take action.

Anjli Patel, Director of External Relations at BOS, said, “Today’s announcement is about the most fundamental element of healthcare – patient safety. We are delighted that our concerns have been heard by the GDC and acted upon. However, as the voice of orthodontics in the UK, we still have reservations about how any wrongdoing by DIY orthodontic companies could be picked up by authorities and we don’t want patients falling through regulatory cracks. Patients don’t know what they don’t know – we will endeavour to give them all the facts.”

FDI validation for the role of orthodontics in improving health and well-being

A policy statement published by the FDI (Federation Dentaire Internationale) is welcomed by Dr Asif Chatoo, founder of the London Lingual Orthodontic Clinic and the UK’s leading lingual orthodontic provider. Dr Chatoo praises the FDI for the  analytical approach it takes to the health benefits of orthodontic treatments in: ‘Malocclusion in Orthodontics and Oral Health’.

Malocclusion is the technical term for a poor bite and one aspect of oral health, also defined by the FDI. According to the FDI, there can be negative impacts on your health when your teeth are not aligned or when your jaws do not meet well.  The FDI statement on malocclusion identifies the problems that can occur. These are:

  • Gingivitis – gum problems
  • A build-up of plaque, leading to dental decay
  • Damage to other teeth in the jaw from a poor bite – weakening tooth enamel and potentially causing decay
  • A poor bite can also cause damage to the tissues of the mouth, leading to discomfort

Importantly, the FDI policy statement says: “By considering malocclusion not only as an aesthetic problem, orthodontic treatment can prevent and intercept other oral diseases and improve the quality of life.”

Dr Chatoo comments: “In essence, straighter teeth protect against serious conditions because the bite and the smile are critical to well-being, not just aesthetically, but functionally and holistically too.”

He went on to comment on the use of the word cosmetic to promote orthodontics. “In my opinion, the word cosmetic is over-used in relation to orthodontics. It’s true that treatment leads to aesthetic improvements, but far more important are the health and well-being benefits identified by the FDI, not least the widely reported improvement in self-confidence. ”

“It is significant that the British Orthodontic Society website does not make any use of the word cosmetic on its extensive educational website, except in reference to limited treatment orthodontics (LTO), which are marketed for cosmetic benefits. “

Oral health has been defined by the FDI in the following all-encompassing  way: “…multi-faceted and includes the ability to speak, smile, smell, taste, touch, chew, swallow and convey a range of emotions through facial expressions with confidence and without pain, discomfort and disease of the craniofacial  complex.”

“Bringing together these statements with what I see in my clinic, there is no doubt that improving patients’ smiles and bites has a substantial impact on well-being. It’s my belief that orthodontics should not be categorised as a cosmetic procedure but as integral to health. “

New statistics reveal rise in adults seeking tooth-straightening treatment

As orthodontic practices re-open,  more than three quarters (80%) of orthodontists report an increase in adult patients amid concerns over ‘DIY’ treatment in a new survey released by The British Orthodontic Society (BOS). 

Over half (60%), say this is due to heightened awareness of adult orthodontics, and more than 15% of orthodontists say their adult patients are influenced by celebrities and bloggers. The majority of adult patients (85%) are in the 26-55 age bracket and most likely to be female (80%).

As the demand for adult orthodontics increases, so do the options for patients. The stats also show concern around the dangers of ‘direct to the consumer’ teeth straightening – also known as ‘DIY braces’. Nearly two thirds of orthodontists surveyed (65%), are concerned that more patients will be seeking ‘DIY braces’ both during and after lockdown.

With many practices dealing with a lockdown backlog of patients and members of the public more aware of issues surrounding close contact, there is concern that more people may put themselves in danger with ‘DIY’ options.

Patients are advised in all circumstances to visit a trained clinician ensuring that they have the various options open to them explained, in person, so they can make an informed decision. The Safe Brace Campaign – www.safebrace.org – is a trusted space where patients can get advice about the safest and most effective way to have orthodontic treatment.

When asked what kind of braces they provide to their patients, orthodontists revealed a cross section of approaches: 

• Over 80% supply fixed braces with clear aesthetic brackets

• Over 30% supply lingual braces (fixed behind the teeth)

• 80% supply clear aligners

The most popular system, provided by more than 97% of orthodontists, is fixed braces on the front of the teeth, often referred to as train tracks. This figure reflects the high number of young people treated as NHS patients for whom fixed braces is the most appropriate option.

Peter McCallum, BOS Director of External Relations, commented: “It is good to see the number of adults interested in orthodontics remains high, we know that treatment can give people the straight and confident smile they have always dreamed about. We want to ensure patients are given the very best advice about orthodontic treatment. Our members, specialists and dentists with a special interest, offer a range of options for adults, enabling them to provide a solution to any kind of orthodontic problem.”

All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from BOS. The survey was carried out online in April 2020.

British Orthodontic Society answers the AGP question

The British Orthodontic Society has  published a document on its website (https://www.bos.org.uk/COVID19-BOS-Advice/Recovery-Phase-Advice/What-is-an-orthodontic-AGP) that considers what constitutes an Aerosol Generating Procedure (AGP) in clinical practice.

Director of External Relations, Peter McCallum, and Director of Clinical Governance, Joe Noar, have said, “Key to the return to work is confirmation of what constitutes an Aerosol Generating Procedure (AGP). It is clear that AGPs should be avoided wherever possible, however, if it is necessary to carry out a procedure that may create an AGP then the appropriate level of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) must be worn.

“The British Orthodontic Society (BOS) has reviewed the evidence available and produced this guidance and these recommendations. BOS is not a legislative body and does not produce regulations that require to be adhered to. These can only come from the regulatory bodies in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales. However, BOS does have a duty to inform, educate and protect members of the public, clinicians and staff during the delivery of orthodontic care. This guidance constitutes best practice.”

Passion, perseverance and performance

How dentists can help a talented team compete and succeed

Main picture: Laura, Sophie and Jen at tour of the Reservoir. Sophie Wright was the overall winner!

Ian Hutchinson is well known in dentistry as a passionate and innovative orthodontist, keen to help dentists make good decisions about treating patients, and choosing and using the best orthodontic approaches, methods and systems for each patient. Each year up to 400 dentists attend his weekend seminars under the Wired Orthodontics, and Assure banners.

But one of Ian’s first passions was racing his bike, and if he had delayed or swayed from dentistry, he might have had an entirely different career.

Now, more than 30 years on from a decision to go to University, rather than to Europe to race, Ian is once again indulging his passion for time on his bike, and he has also committed to supporting one team of up and coming young cyclists.

Torelli Brother Assure (Torelli) are a relatively new team on the European circuit. The brainchild of ex-European Pro cyclist, Tony Orrell, Torelli was set up to become a serious player in the ‘next big thing’ in cycling – women’s cycle racing. And to boot, Torelli’s mission became to help develop young talent – giving young women who may not take the usual route to success a chance. With some sponsorship and a huge amount of determination Torelli’s results in its first seasons are impressive. The team have raced against amateur and pro teams and cyclists, racking up wins, and reputation, with some of the riders going on to accept professional contracts at the end of the first year.

One of this year’s new recruits is a multiple Junior Scottish Champion and pro – hopeful, Georgia Mansfield, whom Ian had sponsored in her journey from determined schoolgirl to Torelli’s notice. En route from supporting this young Scottish cyclist, Ian has discovered that Torelli is this year desperately short of funds, and he is determined to help.

Ian is now organising further clinical, business and personal development evening, day and weekend courses for dentists and managers, where the proceeds are given to Torelli to help them fund travel, racing and equipment for the talented team of 16 women, racing all over the UK, and in Europe. And to help more immediately, Ian has been recording some online lectures for which he will ask a modest fee – payable to the team – in order to view. Ian is also hoping that the dental industry will help with sponsorship, and that other experts will be persuaded to record further online episodes. This is all to give a number of talented youngsters their first chance to turn their passion into the performance of their lives.

Ian’s first online lecture – ‘The Art of Self Defence’ – on consent in orthodontics is now available. Simply donate £40 or more on https://www.gofundme.com/essential-ortho-and-business-topics to be sent the code to view.

https://www.facebook.com/tony.orrell.7

David Sarver and the art of the possible

David Sarver, an orthodontist from Alabama, and one of the world’s best-known speakers on aesthetic dentistry, is to present new data on the way in which our smile changes over the life span when he takes to the stage at the British Orthodontic Conference in September.

Dr Sarver has led the way in smile design, developing his theories on aesthetic dentistry as early as the 1980s. He developed the Orthotrac software in the 1990s and has lectured and written frequently about the role of the orthodontist in managing the treatment of all aspects of a patient’s facial appearance. He is a fellow in the American Academy of Esthetic Dentistry and was a presenter at its 2017 Quadrennial meeting.

He is an outstanding authority, having written a book as well as co-authoring three with Dr William Proffit, contributed chapters to 20 books, articles for 73 publications (including the BOS Journal of Orthodontics) and delivered 300 presentations around the globe.

His research interests include:

  • Computerisation of treatment planning and prediction-digital algorithmic imaging
  • Orthognathic surgical techniques
  • Three-dimensional facial mapping

A learned speaker he may be, he is never dry. His presentations reflect how science is evolving, his theories illuminated by superb case studies and supported by advice on optimum communication with patients.

At BOC Dr Sarver is participating in an interdisciplinary session, which will be an opportunity to showcase his clinical procedures as well as his working relationship with colleagues. In his view, interdisciplinary goes beyond dentistry, it’s a multi-medical and dental approach incorporating plastic surgery too.

Dr Sarver said: “I will present new, concise data on how the smile changes over the decades and how that data has significant influence over our decision making. The expansion of our knowledge in interdisciplinary treatment opens avenues for enhancement of our orthodontic treatment outcomes. I will present new concepts of smile design that will challenge you to open you mind to fascinating possibilities.”

Simon Littlewood, a BOS member and a Consultant at St Luke’s Hospital, Bradford, heard Dr Sarver speak at the American Association of Orthodontics earlier this year. He commented: “I have always enjoyed David Sarver’s lectures, so whenever I see his name on the programme, I will always make sure I am there to hear it. David presented at the recent AAO in Washington, talking about how he uses new digital technology to help in predicting outcomes and discussing what may be possible with his patients. His lecture provided an inspiring approach to communications with patients, using the evolving technologies that are available to us, and as always he presented in his own inimitable and entertaining style.”

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

New BOS survey reveals a rise in the number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment in the UK

New figures released by The British Orthodontic Society (BOS) to coincide with National Smile Month, which kicked-off yesterday (14 May), has revealed the number of adults seeking orthodontic treatment in the UK continues to rise.

This survey, conducted in March 2018 among BOS members, was designed to gather new data about orthodontics and patient choices in the UK compared to two years ago.

Asked if they were seeing an increase in private adult treatment, 80 per cent said yes. This figure compares to 75 per cent in 2016. When asked what kind of braces they provide to their patients, orthodontists revealed a cross section of approaches:

  • Over 75 per cent supply fixed braces with clear aesthetic brackets
  • Over 35 per cent supply lingual braces (fixed behind the teeth)
  • Over 75 per cent supply clear aligners

The survey showed that adult patients are most likely to be female and in the 26 to 40 age bracket. However, the number of men seeking treatment appears to be on the rise. 19 per cent of the respondents to the survey estimate that half of their adult patients are male. This compares to 13 per cent in 2016.

The most popular system, provided by more than 98 per cent of orthodontists, is fixed braces on the front of the teeth, often referred to as ‘train tracks’. This figure reflects the high number of young people treated as NHS patients for whom fixed braces is the most appropriate option.

A quarter of BOS members responded to the survey. Of those who answered the survey, 27 per cent see only NHS patients while 67 per cent see both private and NHS patients.

Richard George, BOS Director of External Relations, commented: “It’s gratifying to see the number of adults interested in orthodontic treatment continuing to rise. If you are interested in treatment for yourself, it’s important to seek an opinion from a professional who has the training and skill to diagnose and treat a variety of orthodontic issues. Our members, specialists and dentists with a special interest, offer a range of options for adults, enabling them to provide a solution to any kind of orthodontic problem. The value of choice cannot be over-estimated.”