Sir, the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT) recently hosted the 18th International Symposium on Dental Hygiene (ISDH) under the auspices of the International Federation of Dental Hygienists in Glasgow. It attracted over 1,100 people from 36 countries making it the largest international symposium to date. It was an event made possible by the excellent teamwork from many people and organisations. The scientific programme proved first class and delegates enjoyed some of the most information rich continual professional development it's possible to generate.

ISDH 2010 enjoyed considerable support from the dental industry who not only participated in the exhibition but the following were also principal sponsors of the symposium: Colgate, Johnson and Johnson, Philips, Procter and Gamble Oral Health Care, GlaxoSmithKline, Tepe NSK, Sunstar and Dentsply.

The British Dental Association (BDA) along with the British Dental Trade Association (BDTA) can also be thanked for their support. In fact this was highlighted by our international colleagues, how in the United Kingdom we are truly developing the dental team and the co-operation between all dental professionals is becoming the envy of other countries. At a time of uncertainty within the profession, from a global prospective what is certain is that in the United Kingdom we are being recognised as the world leader in developing the role of the dental team. Credit must go to the BDA, BDTA and the Department of Health for continuing to facilitate change and recognise the true value of the role of all members of the dental team.