On 10 September the Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) held their inaugural 'ADI Young Dentist Implant Day'. With implants becoming an increasingly popular treatment option among both dentists and patients, the aim of the event was to raise awareness of pathways into implant dentistry for students and young dentists.

Held at The Queen's Club, the morning consisted of lectures from leading implantologists. Dr Peter Fairbairn shared his journey in implant dentistry over the past 25 years, covering the technological advances in implant systems and materials. The increasing advances in synthetic graft materials and new surgical techniques were made apparent.

There were also talks from Dr Zaki Kanaan and Dr Avik Dandapat who provided an insight into several of their implant treatment cases. They highlighted the meticulous treatment planning associated with implant dentistry, and the necessity to appreciate multiple disciplines of dentistry in the interests of holistic patient care.

More tailored to students and new dentists considering a career in implant dentistry, but unsure of the qualifications and training pathways involved, Dr Stuart Kilner and Dr George Pynadath provided an overview of their routes to implant dentistry thus far.

Currently, the GDC has not outlined a specific training pathway required to gain a qualification in implant dentistry. Whilst various courses and diplomas are offered, a message of critically considering academic and clinical components of courses, along with their respective contact times, was emphasised.

Overall the event was insightful, informative and a great networking opportunity. As a charity, the ADI offers valuable mentoring and study club events for those considering and taking their first steps in implant dentistry. As a student membership is free and the events fairly priced. The information offered was extremely valuable and likely to be of sound benefit in the future where I may begin to consider specialty training further.