In the ever-evolving world of healthcare, oral healthcare professionals must continually enhance their knowledge, skills, and sense of community to provide patients with the highest standard of care, writes Miranda Steeples.

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One event that embodies these principles is the Oral Health Conference (OHC) organised by the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT).

In 2023, the OHC promises to be an extraordinary gathering, offering dental hygienists and dental therapists a unique opportunity to update their skills, foster a sense of belonging, and ultimately, further consider how best to maintain and improve their patients' oral health.

A deep dive into the programme

To understand the true value of the OHC, let's take a good look at the programme on offer.

This year's event, scheduled for 24 and 25 November in Bournemouth, boasts a diverse and enriching line-up that caters to the multi-faceted needs of dental professionals.

Day 1: 24 November

Right care, right time, right people

Sponsored by Colgate

Kathryn Mayo Johnson, Dental Hygienist and Dental Tutor, and Fiona Sandom, Dental Therapist, Lead Dental Educator HEIW for North Wales, PLVE Chair and Dental Professional Support Lead HEIW

Periodontitis and the 3 Is - inter-professional collaborations, integrated care, and individualised treatment

Sponsored by TePe Oral Hygiene Products Ltd

Dr Varka Rattu, dentist with a practice focused on periodontics, as well as a MClinDent Periodontology Postgraduate Resident, King's College London

New therapeutic strategies for dental enamel management

Sponsored by J&S Davis

Dr Fabia Profili, Dental Hygienist and Tutor, University Polytechnica of Marche

I'm a dental hygienist, get me out of here! Empowering the dental hygienist on implant care and a practical guide for surviving an implant practice

Sponsored by EMS

Benjamin Tighe, Dental Therapist, Eastman Dental Hospital

'I feel good' drinks conference

Sponsored by EMS

A ticketed event available for purchase at www.bsdht.org.uk/ohc-2023/. This evening is dedicated to relaxation, networking, and connecting with peers in a unique setting.

Day 2: 25 November

Sustainability in general dental practice

Sponsored by NSK Ikigai Oral Hygiene Community

Tracy Doole, Dental Hygienist

Dry mouth and the impact on patients

Sponsored by Oralieve UK

Chris Byrne, Director with a special interest in cancer, Healthwatch Worcestershire

The magic of oxygen in your practice - the story and benefits of bluem in helping to fight peri-implant, and periodontal disease

Sponsored by Swallow Dental

Julie Rosse, Dental Hygienist

Oral health starts in the mind and connects to the mouth

Sponsored by Curaden UK Ltd

Theodora Little, Dental Therapist

Know your patients, change the outcome

Sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Ltd.

Laura Bailey, Dental Therapist

Poster presentations: a showcase of research and innovation

The OHC provides a vital platform for delegates to present their research and contributions to the field and the BSDHT is proud to collaborate with Colgate for the poster competition this year (abstract submissions closed on 22 September).

This competition, for which you do not need to be a BSDHT member to enter, promises to deliver a high standard of research, reflecting the dedication and expertise of dental hygienists and dental therapists.

Colgate's support of the poster competition is particularly noteworthy, as it provides participants with an incredible added incentive to contribute to the profession's knowledge and evidence base.

Prizes include:

  • 1st place: free two-day delegate pass for BSDHT OHC in 2024, including travel and one night's accommodation; free attendance at a BSDHT Regional Group event (Spring or Autumn 2024); one year's free BSDHT membership

  • 2nd place: free two-day delegate pass for BSDHT OHC in 2024, including travel and one night's accommodation

  • 3rd place: free two-day delegate pass for BSDHT OHC in 2024

  • 4th place: £50 book voucher.

The BSDHT: a pillar of support and advocacy

Understanding the value of professional organisations like the BSDHT is crucial in the context of dental hygiene and dental therapy in 2023.

The BSDHT was founded in 1949 as the BDHA (British Dental Hygienists' Association) by a group of 12 dental hygienists who recognised the need for a professional association to represent their interests. Today, nearly 75 years later, the BSDHT stands as a nationally recognised body representing over 3,000 members across the UK and beyond.

The Society has consistently worked to advocate for the interests of its members, serving as a consultative body for public and private organisations on all matters related to dental hygiene and dental therapy.

The Oral Health Conference provides a vital platform for delegates to present their research and contributions to the field.

A key achievement of the BSDHT was helping drive the advocacy for Direct Access in 2013. This monumental change allowed dental hygienists and dental therapists to see patients directly, without the need for treatments under a prescription or care plan from a dentist, provided they are appropriately trained, competent, and indemnified.

Such efforts ensure that the needs of the dental hygiene and dental therapy community are represented and promoted.

The power of community and continuous learning

In 2023, dental hygienists and dental therapists face a rapidly evolving landscape in healthcare.

The BSDHT, and similar professional organisations, play a crucial role in advancing the field of dental hygiene and dental therapy, serving as pillars of support, education, and networking for members, fostering a sense of community and shared expertise.

Events like the OHC hold a special place in the professional development of these team members and stand out as an exceptional platform for sharing cutting-edge information, keeping members updated on the latest advancements in dental hygiene and dental therapy, and meeting CPD requirements. The wider oral healthcare team are also welcome at the OHC to enjoy these benefits with colleagues and friends.

For more information and to book your tickets for the OHC, visit: https://www.bsdht.org.uk/ohc-2023.