Every member of the dental team has an important part to play in the delivery of dental implant treatment. From the moment a patient enters the practice and is greeted by front desk staff, throughout their journey to see the treatment coordinator, dental hygienist/therapist, dentist and others, their experience is impacted by every professional they connect with. That's why it's so important for everyone in the dental implant team to develop their skills and confidence in the field through ongoing training.

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Recognising this, the Association of Dental Implantology (ADI) offered a dedicated Team Programme at its biennial ADI Team Congress. Recently held at Manchester Central, the 2022 event was a fantastic affair. Dental hygienists/therapists, dental nurses, practice managers and treatment coordinators gathered for a day's programme created just for them.

Julia Wilson, previous ADI DCP Representative, organised the programme alongside Natasha Donnelly and Fiona Sandom. Reflecting on the event, Julia said:

'This is the Congress we waited so long for. There has been a lot of excitement leading up to it and in the end, it was amazing. Eimear managed to pull it off despite all the challenges - her opening speech was also amazing and set such a happy tone for the entire Congress.

'The Team Programme went very well. I was very fortunate to work with Natasha and Fiona, who were exceptional. We had some lively sessions, some informal sessions and some absolute legends speaking to delegates who I was honoured to introduce. I was blown away with the programme. It's so difficult to meet the high calibre we set last time for this programme, so I was very proud of myself, Natasha, Fiona and the ADI for providing a great day for the team, which I think many thoroughly enjoyed. The Congress Dinner and entire social programme was absolutely wonderful too.

'For me, the ADI is like an extended family. When we get together, it's always an amazing occasion. I think this is one of the best events that the dental world puts out, certainly in the UK. The ADI Team Congress 2022 was really exciting and great fun. I hope that delegates learnt a lot and went away with some great memories.'

The Team Programme saw dental hygienist/therapists, dental nurses, practice managers and treatment coordinators all learning together for several sessions, with some lectures dedicated to the individual roles. Speakers who presented to everyone included Prav Solanki, Alison Bullock, Michael O'Neill and Sue Boynton. Dental hygienist/therapists also had the opportunity to hear from Crawford Bain, Pynadath George and Craig Parker, while dental nurses joined Adele Holland, Leanna Best and Amanda Jackson. Topics included knowing which patients to treat, the role of the implant coordinator, implant decontamination, implants for high-risk patients and the digital workflow. The afternoon was dedicated to debating skill mix, the challenges being faced and possible solutions, as well as the legal aspects that everyone should be aware of.

In addition to the dedicated Team Programme, dental hygienists/therapists and dental nurses also had access to the Plenary Programme for added learning opportunities.

The Congress Dinner delivered on all it promised, with a fantastic night had by all. Roaring Twenties themed, the event provided a chance to relax with friends after a busy few days, to connect with colleagues one last time and to celebrate all that had been achieved in such a short space of time.

The ADI Team Congress 2023 will be held on 4-6 May at the Birmingham ICC. Visit the website for details in due course. ADI members get significantly discounted rates for all ADI events. www.adi.org.uk