Miranda Steeples delves into the BSDHT's groundbreaking initiatives as it marks its 75th anniversary, a period signifying both a rich legacy and a forward-thinking approach to dental care.

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2024 is a landmark year for the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT), marking a significant juncture in its history. This year's celebrations are a tribute to the Society's enduring legacy in the dental hygiene and dental therapy profession and a clarion call for future advancements in oral health care.

75 hours for 75 years

The ‘75 hours for 75 years' project stands at the forefront of the anniversary events, showcasing the BSDHT's innovative ethos. This initiative goes beyond traditional dental practice, inviting members to participate in community outreach.

This groundbreaking approach seeks to demystify dental professions in the public eye, creating a more informed and engaged community while simultaneously enriching the professional and personal lives of BSDHT members.

The BSDHT is hoping for the active participation of every member, setting a collective goal of over 900 hours of volunteering. This initiative reflects the diverse interests of its members, encompassing a wide range of activities from environmental conservation efforts to youth engagement and mentorship.

We intend to highlight these volunteer activities across multiple channels, encompassing social media, the Dental Health Journal, and the 2024 Oral Health Conference. This approach serves not only to acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of our members but also to enhance public awareness of the professional body's commitment to advancing oral health and fostering community involvement.

The #BSDHTree initiative

The #BSDHTree project is a pivotal aspect of the anniversary, symbolising the Society's commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

Planting 75 trees in various regions is more than a ceremonial gesture; it represents the BSDHT's dedication to a sustainable future. This initiative intertwines the Society's legacy with a vision for environmental health, underscoring the interconnectedness of oral health and ecological wellbeing.

The original idea came from a patient of mine who sadly passed away. He had told me that he had specified in his last wishes that he wanted people to donate money to the Woodland Trust to plant trees in his name, and that got me thinking. We can do it in memorial, but also in celebration, and what a lovely legacy that would be.

The interesting thing is that BSDHT discussions frequently emphasise the importance of sustainability and waste reduction, recognising that offsetting our carbon footprint is a critical aspect of these efforts. And evidently this is coming through loud and clear!

This is apparent because, during our Oral Health Conference in Glasgow, we were pleased to learn that the conference venue, the Scottish Event Campus (SEC), had generously made a donation for the planting of eight trees in recognition of our event being hosted there. This wonderful and thoughtful gesture aligned so well with our commitment to environmental stewardship.

Celebratory events

The BSDHT's collaboration with the International Journal of Dental Hygiene on a special issue is a golden opportunity for budding writers in the field to gain international recognition. The initiative not only celebrates the Society's contributions to dental care but also nurtures new talent and perspectives in the field.

In fact, this opportunity represents a remarkable platform for rising stars in the field. Those with a keen interest in writing and a desire to offer their perspectives to a distinguished publication are invited to showcase their talents on a global stage. Your insights have the potential to influence the future trajectory of dental hygiene and dental therapy.

Meanwhile, the much-anticipated celebration at the RAF Club in London on 6 July is set to be a landmark event. We are currently finalising the detailed arrangements, and additional information will be forthcoming.

The BSDHT's 75th anniversary is a testament to its enduring impact and a beacon for future developments in dental care.

What we can disclose at this moment is that the event promises to be a suitable tribute to the Society's accomplishments to date. It will provide an opportunity for members to unite, exchange experiences, and contemplate the future direction of their profession.

Events like these are essential in cultivating a sense of camaraderie and collective mission within our membership.

Empowering the next generation

This anniversary is a pivotal moment for reflection and anticipation. The BSDHT, with a rich history of advancing dental hygiene and dental therapy, is now focusing on empowering the next generation of professionals.

We envision a future where dental hygienists and dental therapists play a central role in public oral health, highlighting the profession's evolving scope and its critical role in the wider healthcare landscape.

After all, the BSDHT is not just celebrating past achievements; it is laying the groundwork for future successes. The professional body's initiatives are designed to address current health challenges while foreseeing future trends in dental care. This forward-looking approach ensures that the BSDHT remains at the forefront of promoting best practices in dental hygiene and dental therapy.

A beacon for the future

The BSDHT's 75th anniversary is a testament to its enduring impact and a beacon for future developments in dental care. The Society's commitment to community engagement, environmental sustainability, and professional development heralds a new era in oral health.

As the BSDHT looks toward the next 75 years, it does so with a sense of pride and optimism, ready to lead the profession towards greater heights in patient care, public health, and environmental stewardship.

This anniversary is not just a milestone but a gateway to new possibilities in the ever-evolving world of dental hygiene and dental therapy.