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.
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:
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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
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2nd place: free two-day delegate pass for BSDHT OHC in 2024, including travel and one night's accommodation
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3rd place: free two-day delegate pass for BSDHT OHC in 2024
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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.
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Steeples, M. Oral Health Conference 2023: uniting the dental community for patient-centric excellence. BDJ Team 10, 23–24 (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41407-023-1983-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41407-023-1983-2