Sir, I wish to comment on the letter by Brian Lux and colleagues published in BDJ 2006; 201: 186.

All those at the King's College London Dental Institute at Guy's, King's College and St Thomas' Hospitals are very mindful of the illustrious history of all the dental hospitals and schools, including the Royal Dental Hospital of London School of Dental Surgery, which merged at various times to contribute to the success of the Institute. The importance of this history both today and in the future is undisputed and recognised.

Against this backdrop, it is a matter of regret that Mr Lux and his colleagues do not acknowledge the recognition of 'Guy's' in the full title of 'King's College London Dental Institute at Guy's, King's College and St Thomas' Hospitals', let alone the recognition of 'Guy's' in the name of the Institute dental alumni association – 'Guy's, King's and St Thomas' Dental Alumni Association'.

Nothing endures more than change in an ever changing world. Those of today and tomorrow are saddened that some of yesteryear wish to focus on the past rather than the present and opportunities in the future. The Institute has benefited from mergers and change and will continue to seek arrangements to strengthen its standing, building on its history and many varied achievements.

As at present, meetings and other events involving groups of alumni with shared interests and links are to be encouraged. In the spirit and interests of the Dental Institute, it is hoped, however, that all its alumni will, first and foremost, support the existing alumni association and its activities.