Two new courses approved

The GDC has recently approved two new PCD courses at the University of Portsmouth. The Certificate of Higher Education in Dental Nursing, which is a one year programme and the BSc (hons) in Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy, which is a three year programme, started in the academic year 2004-2005.

The newly recognised qualifications will lead to GDC registration and the new dental course means that there is now a third registrable qualification route for dental nurses in addition to the National Certificate and the NVQ/SVQ. For more information about the course please contact Carol Gough on 02392 843 946 or email carol.gough@port.ac.uk

Raising awareness

The 2004 International Federation of Dental Hygienists Day was recently held, with the theme of oral health and diabetes. The 25 member countries of the Federation supported the event including the British Dental Hygienists' Association (BDHA).

The purpose of the day was to raise awareness about diabetes and oral health as well as educate the public about the role of the dental hygienist. The decision to focus on diabetes was taken as evidence is now indicating that there is a link between diabetes and periodontal health. The message about the need to seek regular dental care was highlighted as part of maintaining whole body health.

Sue Skinner, President of the BDHA commented: ‘This year the campaign was focusing on diabetes with a clear message that anyone with this condition must make sure they have regular dental care. As gum disease tends to be more common in patients with diabetes, healing may be slower and affect their overall health.’

Dental hygienists up and down the UK were encouraged to arrange local events based around the IFDH day theme and thereby raise public awareness.