Snowbird Finance is delighted to announce that Tim Baker has joined the team as National Sales Manager to grow and increase Snowbird Finance’s patient finance offering under the brand of “Treatment Finance”.

Tim brings with him a wealth of knowledge and experience in retail and consumer finance spanning over 20 years. Tim will be driving the growth of the Treatment Finance programme for Snowbird Finance across multiple medical verticals, including dental, aesthetic, cosmetic, veterinary and optical, as well as strategically growing other markets out of the medical space.

In his previous role as National Sales Manager at Shawbrook Bank, Tim was responsible for developing the dental sector, as well as growing general retail finance in areas such as furniture, hi-fi and home improvements. Tim has also worked with many of the key players within the retail finance arena including Omni Capital, V12 Retail Finance and Black Horse Finance.

Tim Baker comments on the appointment: “Joining Snowbird Finance was a natural decision for me when Shawbrook Bank withdrew from the medical finance sector, as I had always recognised Snowbird Finance’s commitment to dentistry. The company is also the fastest growing firm in the sector and has been building very rapidly on its well-known equipment finance and loan facilities available to the dental profession.”

Managing Director, Simon Freeman, adds: “We are delighted to welcome Tim to the company as he utilises his extensive skills, knowledge and experience to drive demand. In addition, he has a deep insight into the FCA regulation and regulatory requirements available to dental practices. We are extremely confident that Tim will enhance the strategic vision of the business and will effectively deliver our finance solutions and products to practices and businesses across the UK.”

To reach Tim directly, please call 07500 191912.

For information on various other services offered by Snowbird Finance, visit the website https://www.snowbirdfinance.co.uk/ or call the team on 01932 874674.

The drier air, whipping winds and freezing temperatures of the winter months are just ahead of us. Everyone is digging out their hats, gloves and scarves to fend off the cold and it is not unusual to see people hurrying along with red noses, searching for warmth and comfort. As we know, viral infections such as colds and flu are more common during the winter. Heated indoor environments with limited ventilation make it easier for germs to spread. Furthermore, the immune system becomes supressed in cold weather as blood flow is focused on the core of the body. On the plus side, we tend to burn more calories and dip into our fat reserves as our bodies seek ways to keep warm[i], but it is still important to advise patients about reducing the risks of becoming unwell by wrapping up warmly and eating well.

Naturally, the temperature and humidity of our immediate surroundings affect the body’s core temperature, yet age, infection, the intake of medication and even telling lies can also play a part. Since the outbreak of coronavirus, both dental professionals and patients have become familiar with temperature screening protocols to prevent the transmission of COVID-19. But how do cold temperatures influence the nation’s oral health?

The temperature of the mouth varies considerably over a 24-hour period. Simply breathing and routine activities such as speaking, sleeping, eating, drinking and exercising cause the temperature within the oral cavity to fluctuate. [ii] For example, the temperature of the mouth drops significantly when the mouth is open for extended periods – it rises when exposed to hot substances and consequently, the range of temperatures on the surfaces of the teeth and the duration of these temperature changes are wide and varied.[iii]

Just like other materials, the teeth expand and contract as they change in temperature. As the teeth adjust, small cracks can emerge that do not normally affect the tooth structure but can cause discomfort, particularly if the patient has metal fillings, which expand and contract more rapidly than natural teeth. Additionally, if the tooth enamel is worn away and the dentine and nerves are exposed to the elements, the teeth can become sensitive. Patients can use a layer of clothing to form a barrier over the mouth when going outside in very cold temperatures in order to reduce discomfort. However, adopting good daily oral hygiene, not brushing too aggressively and avoiding foods and drinks that have erosive qualities are recommended.

As dental professionals are aware, cold, dry air can speed up the dehydration process and inhibit the mouth’s ability to fight bacterial infection. When saliva flow is low, harmful bacteria can proliferate, increasing the risk of tooth decay and gingivitis as well as oral malodour. Reminding patients to avoid smoking, caffeine and alcohol but to drink plenty of water or chew sugar free gum, will help to prevent the mouth from drying out. The cold weather can also cause dry, chapped lips as well as the ideal environment for cold sores to develop. Patients should be advised to moisturise the lips and skin around the mouth regularly, to keep stress levels down and get plenty of sleep to prevent breakouts. Most importantly, however, frequent hand washing to prevent and protect from viruses and bacteria should never be underestimated.

The winter season brings celebrations including Christmas, Hanukkah and New Year with indulgent, often sugary temptations. Nevertheless, frequent snacking on festive foods or constantly sipping sweetened drinks increases the amount of time the teeth are subjected to harmful acids, heightening the risk of tooth decay. Obviously, food that remains in the mouth such as sticky sweets release sugar gradually and provide the mouth with an increased opportunity to digest the sugar and produce more acid. However, many patients may not realise that starchy, processed food such as crisps and flavoured crackers can also linger in the mouth and cause cavities.[iv]

To protect the teeth and prevent oral health issues, patients should be encouraged to eat a balanced diet that includes whole grains and dairy products, as well as fresh fruit and vegetables. They should take measures to maintain a healthy flow of saliva and practise good oral hygiene. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and flossing daily with the Waterpik^® Water Flosser ensures that food debris is rinsed away and plaque from between the teeth and below the gum line is effectively removed. The Waterpik^® Water Flosser provides a quick, easy, safe and gentle way for patients to floss that is clinically proven to be more effective than string floss and interdental brushes for improving gingival health.^{[v] ,[vi]}  It is also supported by over 75 research studies and is accredited by the Oral Health Foundation so dental professionals can recommend it with confidence. Furthermore, Waterpik^® has developed a selection of new CPD E-courses at: https://www.waterpik.co.uk/professional/continuing-education/ to help and support dental professionals in the coaching, guiding and instruction of good oral hygiene.

It has been a strange year for everyone but by educating and preparing your patients for the cold temperatures, you can play a vital role in keeping them in good health this winter and beyond.

For more information on Waterpik^® products please visit www.waterpik.co.uk. Waterpik^® products are available from Amazon, Asda, Costco UK, Argos, Boots, Superdrug online and in stores across the UK and Ireland.

Author – Maxwell O’Neill, professional educator for Waterpik

[i] Ouellet V. et al. Brown adipose tissue oxidative metabolism contributes to energy expenditure during acute cold exposure in humans. J Clin Invest. 2012;122(2):545–552. https://www.jci.org/articles/view/60433?key=5e3684aee3d55b74adc8 [Accessed 1^st September 2020]

[ii] Moore J. et al. Intra-oral temperature variation over 24 hours. European Journal of Orthodontics. 1999:21.249-261. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10407534/ [Accessed 1^st September 2020]

[iii] Longman C.M. et al. Variations in tooth surface temperature in oral cavity during fluid intake. Biomaterials. 1987:8(5):411-4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3676430/ [Accessed 1^st September 2020]

[iv] Campain A.C. et al. Sugar-starch combinations in food and the relationship to dental caries in low-risk adolescents. Eur J Oral Sci 2003. 111(4):316-25. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12887397/ [Accessed 1st September 2020]

[v] Lyle D.M. Relevance of the Water Flosser: 50 years of data. Compend of Contin Educ 2012 April: 33 (4) https://www.aegisdentalnetwork.com/cced/2012/04/relevance-of-the-water-flosser-50-years-of-data [Accessed 1st September 2020]

[vi] Goyal C.R. et al. Evaluation of the plaque removal efficacy of a water flosser compared to string floss in adults after a single use. J Clin Dent. 2013 24(2):37-42. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24282867 [Accessed 1st September 2020]

Push the boundaries of immediate dental implant treatment with the Straumann^® ImmediaXy^® suite of solutions, which facilitates a complete workflow. Clinicians can take advantage of:

• The 3Shape TRIOS^® 3 intraoral scanner to ensure faster, easier and more accurate digital impressions
• The Straumann^® Cares^® Visual Chairside software and the Straumann^® Cares^® C series of milling and grinding technology for the design and manufacture of natural-looking prostheses
• The Straumann^® coDiagnostiX^® system to ensure predictable results through precise surgical planning and guide design
• The Straumann^® BLX implant system, which enables immediate protocols in all bone types with Dynamic Bone Management
• Pro Arch, offering a reliable full-arch rehabilitation option
• Smile in a Box, enabling you to outsource as much or as little of the immediate implant workflow as you need

Discover how ImmediaXy^® can effectively support you, your patients and your business today by visiting the Straumann^® website.

Download the e-book “13-must watch webinars and commented cases on Immediacy” at www.straumann-uk.co/immediaxy-ebook

Bonding brackets can be fiddly and time-consuming.

Streamline treatment and enter a new era of ease by choosing APC Flash-Free Adhesive from 3M Oral Care.

Eliminating the need for flash clean up after placement, APC Flash-Free Adhesive from 3M removes the risk of bacterial build up on uneven surfaces, helping to guarantee a strong, long-lasting bond.

Furthermore, as APC Flash-Free Adhesive is so easy to use, it helps to remove the need for long bonding appointments, freeing up time and making sure patients and professionals alike benefit from a smooth application.

To find out more, please contact 3M Oral Care today.

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

3M representatives remain contactable by phone or via video conferencing

END

3M and APC are trademarks of the 3M Company.

Time is often referred to as the single most valuable commodity in the modern world. In the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, it has never been so important to make the most of the time that we have in order to re-establish routine patient care and encourage business recovery. As such, many dental professionals are looking for ways to streamline daily tasks and maximise efficiency in every area of their clinic. 

In dentistry, clinicians will be no strangers to the idea of improving efficiency and productivity in order to provide better care to more patients, while also optimising profits and creating more time to spend with family and friends. However, it is crucial that working faster does not compromise the quality of treatment delivered or the patient experience. Thankfully, cutting-edge solutions on the market today are designed specifically to facilitate simplified workflows that both boost efficiency and clinical outcomes.

However it is not just the dental team which seeks products and protocols to support time-saving procedures. Patients are also looking for quicker treatments in fewer appointments in order to maximise on their time as well. This is evident in the development of dental implant techniques and concepts in recent years, which have been driven by both clinical excellence and patient demand.

The development of immediacy

Conventional implant surgery would have routinely involved healing periods for several months between tooth extraction and implant insertion, as well as between implant placement and the restorative phase of treatment. Today, while delayed placement and delayed loading principles still have their place in certain cases, more and more clinicians are utilising immediate protocols. In the right clinical scenarios, these concepts enable implant surgery to be completed in one appointment, rather than the traditional two, which many patients appreciate. In addition, immediate loading protocols mean patients can leave the dental practice with their new prosthetic already in place, encouraging their satisfaction.

These techniques have been developed through extensive research to ensure that they continue to deliver good clinical results. There is a body of research to demonstrate the success of immediate implant protocols and the many benefits afforded to patients. For example, immediate placement and immediate provisionalisation have been associated with a high survival rate, minimal bone loss and good aesthetics.^[1] In addition, osseointegrated implants in both fully and partially edentulous patients have shown good survival rates following use of immediate loading protocols.^[2] The importance of effective case selection and treatment planning have been highlighted for successful procedures.^[3]

Building further on the opportunities provided by immediacy with dental implants, the full-arch rehabilitation has revolutionised today’s treatment options. The concept of ‘same-day teeth’ has grown in popularity among patients. For those who are suitable for treatment, it offers a chance to restore the function and aesthetics of their smile in a single day. The instant boost in self-confidence is commonly what attracts so many patients. It is also often what leads patients to appreciate the value of treatment and means they are more than willing to invest in their smile.

Once again, there is much evidence to support the effectiveness of full arch rehabilitation for fully edentulous patients.^[4] Cumulative survival rates of immediately placed and immediately loaded implants in completely edentulous jaws are comparable to that of delayed placement and delayed loading.^[5] It has been noted, however, that physical properties of the dental implants used do affect success of the treatment.

Product selection

Consequently, it is essential that clinicians employ clinically evidenced solutions for full arch rehabilitations, if they are to achieve the best results for their patients. This involves using brands that can be trusted for their quality and predictability, whose products have sufficient research behind them. It is also hugely beneficial to work with a supplier that can provide a comprehensive customer service so there will always be support available to facilitate exceptional clinical treatment in practice.

Straumann^® Pro Arch is a full arch solution supported by extensive clinical research and development. It utilises the new Bone Level Fully Tapered implant, Straumann^® BLX, for highly predictable results. The implant design allows for dynamic bone management, enhancing insertion torque control for high primary stability in all bone types. Made from Roxolid^® material, it offers high biocompatibility with greater fatigue strength than titanium, while the SLActive^® is a chemically modified hydrophilic surface designed to speed up osseous healing.

The Straumann^® Pro Arch solution works with a broad range of implant lengths and diameters, though the single connection for all diameters reduces the number of abutments needed for simple workflows and clinical flexibility. The rounded and slim angulated abutments (17° and 30°) maximise space for the soft tissue, delivering aesthetics with ease and making the Straumann^® Pro Arch with BLX the best option for a predictable full arch solution.

Efficiency and clinical excellence

With the clinically proven solutions available on the market today, it is possible to deliver fast and efficient implant treatment without any compromises in quality or long-term stability. Combining good case and product selection with evidence-based protocols and careful treatment planning is the key to success.

For more information on the Straumann^® Pro Arch solution, please visit https://www.straumann.com

^[1] Van Nimwegen WG, Goené RJ, Van Daelen ACL, Stellingsma K, Raghoebar GM. Immediate implant placement and provisionalisation in the aesthetic zone,. Journal of Oral Rehabilitation. October 2016;43(10);745-752 doi.org/10.1111/joor.12420

^[2] Del Fabbro M, Testori T, Kekovic V, Goker F, Tumedei M, Wang H-L. A Systematic Review of Survival Rates of Osseointegrated Implants in Fully and Partially Edentulous Patients Following Immediate Loading. J. Clin. Med. 2019, 8, 2142.

^[3] Koh R, Rudek I, Wang HL. Immediate implant placement: positives and negatives. Implant Dentistry. April 2010;19(2);98-108 doi: 10.1097/ID.0b013e3181d47eaf

^[4] Piano S, Romeo E, Sbricoli L, Pisoni G, Cea N, Lops D. Simplified procedure for the immediate loading of a complete fixed prosthesis supported by four implants in the maxillary jaw: a 2-year prospective study. Clin. Oral Impl. Res. 00, 2015, 1-7.

^[5] Kim, H., Cho, H., Kim, Y.y. et al. Implant survival and patient satisfaction in completely edentulous patients with immediate placement of implants: a retrospective study. BMC Oral Health 18, 219 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-018-0669-1

The British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT) would like to wish a fond farewell to Julie Deverick and thank her for her services to the Society and beyond over the last few years.

As president for the past 2 years, Julie has been fearless in promoting the voices of dental hygienists and dental therapists across the nation, not only by campaigning for change in the industry but also by offering a supportive shoulder for all those in need.

From working on the Exemptions project to ushering in new BSDHT Ambassadors for the last two years, Julie’s commitment and passion have been commendable and she has made the Society stronger than ever. Furthermore, she has made the dream for a Mentorship course a reality, working with The University of Kent to create a course that will benefit all members moving forwards.

So thank you again to Julie!

For more information about the BSDHT, please visit www.bsdht.org.uk, call 01788 575050 or email enquiries@bsdht.org.uk

Join the BACD in honouring and remembering Dr Anoop Maini at a special memorial event entitled “The Modern GDP”.

All proceeds for this inspirational event will be donated to a charity chosen by Dr Neera Maini in memory of Anoop – a BACD Past President and a pioneer within the field.

Offering an exceptional programme of lectures taking place on 16^th January 2021 at the Institution of Civil Engineers in London, The Modern GDP will encompass all aspects of dentistry that are relevant to everyday practice at higher levels.

This event aims to celebrate Anoop and inspire delegates to share his passion for outstanding dental education. Book your place now on the BACD website.

For further enquiries about the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, visit www.bacd.com

The toilet is one of the most used appliances in the home, yet it’s often taken for granted. It not only bears witness to its fair share of unmentionables, but is also treated by many people as a black hole for disposing of just about anything – simply dump, flush and it’s gone. Out of sight, out of mind, right? The risk of doing this is that the environment is further polluted, while sewage and wastewater treatment systems are damaged due to huge pipework blockages.

What’s the problem?

If your toilet is working properly, it should flush your waste through the drain pipes, which then empty into the sewer system. Eventually, this sewage makes its way to your local wastewater treatment plant, where it is treated and the waste removed. Anything that is biodegradable, such as toilet paper, will break down naturally through this process, but other items that shouldn’t be flushed will have to be manually extracted and disposed of – that is, if they make it all the way to the treatment plant. Anywhere along the pipe system, foul debris can accumulate and eventually cause clogs and backups that can affect multiple properties.  

Sometimes, if foreign objects are large enough, they never actually leave your home but, instead, stay lodged in the pipes underneath your house. Although this might not cause a blockage for weeks, months or even years, if enough debris piles up around it, serious plumbing issues can occur. At this point, you would have to contact a plumber to clear out the sewage and repair any damages that may have been caused to the pipework, which can be as costly an endeavour as it is embarrassing – especially if your plumber uncovers items that you would have preferred to stay flushed. Unfortunately, clogged wastewater systems have been an ongoing challenge in recent years.

According to Water UK – the trade body representing all of the main water and sewerage companies in Britain – there are approximately 300,000 sewer blockages every year, costing the country a staggering £100 million.[1] Besides the impact on sewage infrastructures, many items that are being flushed down the toilet also contain plastic, which can eventually make their way into our rivers, lakes and oceans, contributing to worldwide plastic pollution. To help combat these problems, water companies are encouraging people to rethink their toilet habits. The three Ps – pee, poo and paper – are the only waste products to be flushed, but what are some of the most common non-flushable items that many people dispose of down the khazi? 

Disposable wet wipes

Millions of people rely on the convenience and multi-purpose nature of wet wipes, but these small squares of moist fabric make up 93% of the material causing sewer blockages in the UK.[2] The problem with wet wipes is that, contrary to what some people might think, they do not disintegrate in the same way as toilet paper. Instead, they clump together and combine with congealed masses of fats, oil and grease – otherwise known as “fatbergs” – that can clog up our sewer systems.[3] Even wet wipes that claim to be flushable, biodegradable or compostable are unlikely to degrade quickly enough once flushed to avoid wreaking havoc on drains and waterways. This is one reason why the UK government is considering measures to ban wet wipes entirely.[4]

Feminine hygiene products  

Half of women consider throwing sanitary products in the bin as opposed to the toilet a no-brainer, but the other half have no idea that this can be a waste nightmare. It is estimated that 1.5 to 2 billion sanitary products are flushed annually, with 700,000 panty liners ending up down the drain, along with 1.4 million menstrual pads. The most problematic products are tampons, with approximately 2.5 million of them being flushed every day.[5]^{, [6]} Like wet wipes, tampons often contain plastic to make them extremely absorbent but durable, which is why they don’t disintegrate like toilet paper. The burden that feminine hygiene products can place on the environment and wastewater treatment systems has prompted some people to consider using alternative solutions, including menstrual cups, period underwear, and reusable cotton pads or tampons.

Dental floss

Although these little pieces of string might seem innocent enough to toss into the toilet bowl, dental floss is typically made out of non-biodegradable substances like nylon, which do not break down over time. For those who are – quite rightly – daily interdental cleaners, frequently flushing pieces of dental floss can eventually amount to a big plumbing problem, as floss can combine with other waste items such as wet wipes to clog up drains and sewers. To discourage the disposal of dental floss in this way, dental professionals can recommend more environmentally-friendly alternatives like CPS interdental brushes from Curaprox. These feature a reusable handle and replaceable brush head to promote the reduction, reuse and recycle of waste.

When in doubt, throw it out

If we are to effectively protect the environment and ensure the success of our sewage infrastructures, it is important that we are considerate of what we flush down the porcelain throne. Remember, if it’s not pee, poo or paper, throw it in the bin. 

For more information please call 01480 862084, email info@curaprox.co.uk or visit www.curaprox.co.uk

[1] Water UK. (2017) Wipes in sewer blockage study: Final report. Available at: https://www.water.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2018/11/Wipes-in-sewer-blockage-study.pdf. [Last accessed: 05.08.20].

[2] Water UK. (2017) New proof that flushing wipes is a major cause of sewer blockages. Available at: https://www.water.org.uk/news-item/new-proof-that-flushing-wipes-is-a-major-cause-of-sewer-blockages/. [Last accessed: 05.08.20].

[3] Taylor, J. (2019) What is a fatberg, how is it formed and why are single-use plastics the main culprit? Evening Standard. Available at: https://www.standard.co.uk/futurelondon/theplasticfreeproject/fatbergs-and-single-use-plastics-a4034686.html. [Last accessed: 05.08.20].

[4] Wentworth, A. (2018) Wet wipes will face ban under new UK plastic rules. ClimateAction. Available at: http://www.climateaction.org/news/wet-wipes-will-face-ban-under-new-uk-plastic-rules/. [Last accessed: 05.08.20].

[5] Marine Conservation Society. (2013) Marine Plastics: Pollution Policy and Position Statement. Available at: https://www.mcsuk.org/downloads/pollution/pbf/MCS_Marine_Plastics_position_paper.doc. [Last accessed: 05.08.20].

[6] Environment Committee. (2018) Single-use plastics: Unflushables. GOV.UK. Available at: https://www.london.gov.uk/sites/default/files/plastics_unflushables_-_submited_evidence.pdf. [Last accessed: 05.08.20].

An ever-evolving dental industry and constantly shifting patient demands mean that practices must adapt quickly to always be ahead of the curve.

With Sensei Cloud, this is easier than ever before.

An innovative practice management platform, Sensei Cloud combines Carestream Dental’s rich history of practice management systems with the voice of the dental industry, creating a software that not only helps your practice to excel, but that also learns as the industry changes to keep you at the forefront of innovation.

Easy-to-use and perfect for business models of any size, Sensei Cloud is your key to the future of your business.

Find out more today.

For more information, contact Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or

visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk

For the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter @CarestreamDentl

and Facebook

Prophylaxis care has just got simpler with the Proxeo Ultra range of piezo scalers from W&H. These innovative units are designed for prophy professionals and proven to be suitable for use on patients with pacemakers.

The PB-530 sets itself apart within the range, as it is designed with a large 750ml tank and an automatic fill level detection system. It also offers a wireless foot control to facilitate greater freedom of movement while you work.

With the Ultra’s patented Q-Link connection system, changing between tips is as easy as one twist of the handpiece, which features an LED ring for daylight-quality illumination.

Contact W&H for further details.

To find out more visit www.wh.com/en_uk, call 01727 874990 or email office.uk@wh.com