In an era where dental care is constantly advancing, the need for continuous professional development has never been more critical, writes Miranda Steeples.

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As President of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT), I've witnessed firsthand how our initiatives support dental hygienists and dental therapists across the UK in their pursuit of excellence. Our commitment to facilitating lifelong learning and enhancing the clinical skills of our members is at the heart of everything we do.

As we all know, the General Dental Council (GDC) emphasises the importance of Enhanced Continuing Professional Development (eCPD) to ensure dental professionals maintain and enhance their skills throughout their careers.

BSDHT's educational events, including local study days and our ‘Refresh & Refine' programme, are meticulously designed to align with these eCPD requirements. By offering a blend of theoretical knowledge and practical skills application, we ensure our members are well-equipped to meet the GDC's standards for lifelong learning.

A case in point: our regional group meetings serve as dynamic platforms for dental hygienists and dental therapists to stay abreast of the latest developments in the field. These events feature high quality presentations from esteemed professionals, covering a broad range of topics from innovative treatment techniques to the latest research findings. This ensures our members can deliver the highest standard of care to their patients.

A commitment to quality

Indeed, the BSDHT takes great pride in maintaining the scientific and clinical rigour of our educational programmes. Each event is carefully curated to include evidence-based content and is delivered by experts in the field. This commitment to quality assures our members that their professional development is in good hands.

In line with this, our network of 12 regional groups is designed to cater to the varied professional goals and career stages of our members. Whether you're an experienced practitioner or newly qualified, our events provide valuable learning opportunities and the chance to engage with peers facing similar challenges and milestones.

Networking opportunities abound

We also recognise the importance of staying informed about new products and technologies in dental care. Our study days facilitate interactions between dental professionals and industry representatives in a relaxed, pressure-free environment.

This approach ensures that information exchange is both meaningful and beneficial, enabling our members to make informed decisions about the tools and services that can enhance their practice.

Beyond the trade opportunities, some of my most memorable experiences at regional group meetings have been witnessing the genuine connections formed between members. The support and advice shared among peers not only contribute to professional growth but also foster a sense of belonging and community. These interactions underscore the invaluable role of networking in personal and career development.

This year actually marks a monumental milestone for BSDHT as we celebrate 75 years since the creation of the BDHA (British Dental Hygienists' Association).

Mark your calendar

Looking ahead, I am particularly excited about our upcoming national conference. This event promises to be a highlight of the BSDHT calendar once more and this year actually marks a monumental milestone for BSDHT as we celebrate 75 years since the creation of the BDHA (British Dental Hygienists' Association), now known as the BSDHT.

So, we invite you to join us at the Oral Health Conference (OHC) in Harrogate on 22-23 November. The conference programme, still in development, promises exciting keynote speakers, multi-stream sessions, and hands-on workshops, allowing attendees to tailor their experience to their learning needs.

This event not only serves as a prime opportunity for professional development and to network with fellow professionals, but also celebrates the collective achievements and the future of dental hygiene and dental therapy.

A community for you

Our commitment to providing quality education, fostering peer support, and promoting lifelong learning remains steadfast. I encourage all dental hygienists and dental therapists to join us on this journey of professional development and discovery.

As the landscape of dental care continues to evolve, the BSDHT remains dedicated to supporting our members every step of the way. Through our educational events, networking opportunities, and commitment to excellence, we strive to empower dental hygienists and dental therapists to achieve their professional goals and provide the best possible care to their patients.

Always remember, everyone is welcome at the BSDHT! For further details please visit www.bsdht.org.uk.