Friday 20th April
FREE TO ATTEND (5 CPD Hrs)
Further details on the website.
To register for this free event, just fill out the form on the website
http://www.implantsandbeyond.org/
Have you recently qualified and seeking to enhance your knowledge and skills in implant dentistry?
In partnership with Straumann, the ITI is proud to present the highly regarded ITI Foundation in Implant Dentistry course. Now in its tenth year, the FID is a comprehensive programme specifically designed to assist delegates towards meeting the requirements of both the GDC and the FGDP Training Standards in Implant Dentistry for a safe and predictable start in implant dentistry.
This modular course, divided into six modules of two days each, covers all the essential materials needed for assessment, diagnosis and treatment planning, plus the opportunity to gain one-to-one practice mentoring in the clinical environment. Taught by some of the most experienced implant dentists in the UK, including Prof Nikos Donos, Dr Shakeel Shahdad and Dr Nikos Mardas, it delivers a wealth of implant experience combined with the ITI philosophy to deliver an evidence-based curriculum in a continuously peer-reviewed format.
Delegates have full access to the renowned ITI Online Academy – a ground-breaking e-learning platform that meets the needs of implant dentistry professionals by complementing and backing up the modular course’s didactic teaching. FID has its own dedicated Campus on the ITI Online Academy with learning modules, lectures and treatment examples all part of the FID curriculum.
There are a number of options for further training after the delegates have completed the FID course. Delegates can choose to continue on the ITI Training Pathway: the UK & Ireland Education Programme, offering a wide range of Straightforward and Advanced level courses. Beyond the ITI many UK Universities also offer formal certificates, diplomas and MScs in Implant Dentistry. The FID is recognised by the University of Bristol as Approved Prior Learning (APL) for their MSc in Implant Dentistry and on completion of the FID, delegates have the option to apply for entry directly into the second year of the MSc. There is also the option of self-guided preparation for the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh Diploma in Implant Dentistry (Dip Imp Dent RCSEd).
Don’t miss out on your chance to take a significant first step on the ITI Pathway!
Early Bird Discount - Book before 31st October and save £900!
All delegates who book before 31st October 2017 will benefit from a £900 discount off the full course fee of £6,000 +VAT (£5,100 +VAT).
Book a free place for one of your practice staff on either a Dental Nurse or Treatment Coordinator course when you book your place on the ITI Foundation in Implant Dentistry course!
Calling all past FID delegates – If you refer a friend on to the FID 2018 course and they enrol and pay the deposit, you will receive a £50 John Lewis voucher!
Places are limited to a maximum of 24 delegates so to reserve your place or for further information please call the Straumann Education Department on +44 (0) 1293 651270 or visit iti.org/uk.
Start date: 20th February 2018 with modules running through to 19th September 2018
Venue: ITI Education Centre, Crawley
CPD: 78 hours of verifiable CPD
Materials, lunch and refreshments are provided
straumanndigitalperformance.co.uk
Facebook: Straumann UK
Twitter: @StraumannUK
Free attendance to the ADI Members’ National Forum is just one of the many benefits of being a part of the forward-thinking organisation – and registration is now open!
The varied presentations will cover a range of topics including: peri-implantitis, bone manipulation techniques, immediate implantation, use of growth factors, full arch reconstruction, learning from failures and the varied and increasing role of the hygienist in implantology.
Speakers include Nik Pandya (“Is Pink the Biz for Successful Implant Therapy?”), Guy McLellan (“Nazalus Implant for Full Arch Rehabilitation”) and Nigel Jones (“What Ten Years of Oral Bisphosphonates Have Taught Us”). Dr Aneel Jabbar, who won the Poster Prize at the ADI Team Congress back in March, has been invited to talk on “The Microbiology of Peri-Implantitis: Similar or Distinct to Periodontitis?” Panel discussions throughout each programme are sure to be lively and will also give delegates the chance to ask questions.
This varied programme reflects how the ADI is committed to supporting all members of the dental implantology team. A number of company members will also be on hand with exhibition stands – so attendees can get a valuable insight into the latest exciting developments in the market – and after the Forum’s close, there will be informal drinks.
The Members’ National Forum is just one benefit of joining, others include: discounted rates for ADI Study Clubs, ADI Masterclasses and ADI Focus Meetings, as well as access to 50 free patient information leaflets, access to the COIR and EDI journal, the chance to become or find a mentor and access to the ADI Members-only Facebook Group, where you can chat online about current topics of interest in the dental implant world.
If you are not yet a member, join today and you can access the benefits immediately.
The 2017 ADI Members’ Forum is a special event that only comes around once every two years. Secure your free tickets today!
ADI Member’s National Forum 2017 – Manchester Central
Saturday 25 November
For more information please visit www.adi.org.uk/forum17
How mentoring in implant dentistry can improve clinical outcomes and create a more rewarding professional life
Taking the first steps into implant dentistry can seem a daunting prospect for those lacking practical experience, and to successfully introduce and benefit from implant treatment in practice is something that’s not easily achieved alone. Academic training and having the most up-to-date knowledge of the processes involved is of course essential, but having limited experience and lacking confidence in hands-on practical skills can make things far harder in moving forward with treatment planning and placement.
Where to begin
For those who want to take their career to the next level and develop their skills in implant dentistry, yet are unsure how this can be achieved, should consider the benefits from ongoing guidance and support in the form of clinical mentoring. Mentoring can be successfully used to accelerate the development of skills, improve clinical outcomes and help in making complex clinical judgements to assist in building confidence and gaining essential hands-on experience in planning and placing implants.
Mentoring is a long-term relationship and a good Mentor is someone who genuinely cares for the mentee’s development and knows how to combine the desire for learning with practice clinical skills. They have the experience, teaching and support skills to offer high-level guidance for long-term development, to find a clinician’s strengths as well as weaknesses, and know precisely when to step in to help achieve successful treatment outcomes.
The role of a Mentor is not to tell or lecture mentees about what to do, but instead to come into their working environment to offer advice to help them think through challenges and find their own way through the myriad of clinical choices and treatment solutions available. Mentors are not there to undermine a clinician’s skills and competencies, but to guide and reassure them through their first cases and beyond based on individual skill levels and training requirements.
Support where it’s needed
Just as starting out in implant dentistry without expert guidance can be a challenge, finding a suitable Mentor without help can also prove to be problematic. Straumann, a market leader in implant dentistry are ideally positioned to partner clinicians with highly-experienced Mentors throughout the UK and Ireland through their Clinical Mentoring Programme, to deliver high quality and consistent clinical and educational skills in implant dentistry.
The benefits of a reputable training pathway and working closely with a Mentor to achieve consistent clinical outcomes and gain valuable hands-on experience in implant procedures should not be underestimated. This level of guidance is the safest and most effective way to start successfully and confidently placing and restoring implants within your practice.
“In my first year all my cases were first and second premolar implant placements, but through the guidance of a mentor I have been able to develop my skills and undertake the placement and restoration of implants in all sites, as well as sinus and bone grafts. When I compare my level of clinical care now to when I first started out in implants I can see a huge difference in not only my clinical capabilities, but my restorative skills too.”
Milisha Chotai, DDS, MSc, PGDip, PGCert
For more information on how to get started with dental implants visit straumann.co.uk or call Straumann on 01293 651270. To join the Straumann Clinical Mentoring Programme visit straumannmentoring.co.uk
If you’re looking to develop your implant offerings and provide a wider range of services to your patients, get started with the All-On-4® treatment concept with your free e-book today!
From the pioneer of the globally popular concept, Nobel Biocare, the e-book offers a wealth of information, advice and top tips to help you maximise efficiency, safety and success of treatment.
The valuable tool will help you learn:
For this and much more, download your free e-book today! Just go to info.nobelbiocare.com/int/en/all-on-4-ebook to discover more about how the innovative All-On-4® treatment concept could benefit you and your patients.
For more information, contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300, or visit www.nobelbiocare.com
BioHorizons is delighted to announce its new relationship with CAMLOG, a leading supplier of systems and products for implant and restorative dentistry.
Speaking about this development, Ken O’Brien, General Manager UK & Ireland at BioHorizons, said: ‘To me, this is the positioning of two premium systems under one umbrella, offering clinicians unrivalled choice. We are excited to share the possibilities with our customers in the coming weeks.’
Indeed, with CAMLOG and BioHorizons sharing a portfolio of products, our reps can offer a wider range of treatment solutions than ever before, combined with unprecedented added value features such as access to The Implant Hub (www.theimplanthub.com) and business support.
With a team of Territory Managers located across the UK and Ireland, you can be sure that whatever you need is just a phone call away.
For more information, please call 01344 752560, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.biohorizons.com.
If you are interested in providing your patients with high-quality dental implant treatment, then be sure you don’t miss out on the Implants Year Course from Step Education.
Focussing not only on training dentists to become clinically adept at diagnosing, placing and maintaining dental implants, this exciting course is designed to educate the entire dental team on the benefits of dental implantology.
That means, alongside the exceptional mentoring, live surgery and implant restoration elements of this course, there will also be team-specific modules that will help your business finance and market your new treatment option.
Led by three ITI Fellows, James Hamill, Robert Oretti and Anthony Summerwill – who have acquired over 55 years of combined implant experience – the Step Education Implants Year Course is ideal for young professionals thinking about moving into implantology.
What’s more, as a multi-system course, the skills you learn across the 10 month period will be applicable to whichever implant system you prefer to work with.
Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity – book yourself and your team onto the Step Education Implants Year Course before it’s too late! Spaces are going fast!
To express your interest, please email us on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.stepeducational.com to find out more.
‘We came to work with Stuart Clark, Matt Rowlingson and the team from Clark Dental because they helped me with my initial practice fit out ten years earlier, and I have worked alongside them ever since. The team are always professional and provide consistently excellent service, so we knew they would be the best company to work with. They get things done and resolve any problems that arise with experience and confidence. I can have an idea and they make that vision a reality.
“As far as managing the project, Matt from Clark Dental took care of all the dental aspects. They oversaw the dental fit and installation, including coordinating with builders and other contractors, and they were fantastic at ensuring this all came together for us.
“For anyone undertaking a relocation or renovation project, I would highly recommend working with the team from Clark Dental, this project would not have turned out as well as it did without them.”
For more information contact Clark Dental on 01270 613750,
email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit www.clarkdentalsurgerydesign.co.uk
“I have used a variety of other impression materials over the course of my career, though none of these have provided me with the stability, accuracy and level of detail that Impregum has.
“Its ideal flow properties also reproduce the most minor details in my preparations and I avoid drags and airblows. This means I can ensure that the first impression is the last.
“I have no hesitation in recommending Impregum Penta impression material to other practitioners who are looking to provide their patients with the best possible indirect restorations.”
For more information, call 0845 602 5094 or visit www.3Mespe.co.uk
“They are absolutely fantastic. Nik is approachable, extremely professional and great with the patients. His help and advice on placing implants and restoration has been invaluable.
“Nik comes directly to the practice and has an innate ability to know how much to push me so that I continue to improve, and he always has time for my questions. I would feel comfortable and confident referring any of my patients to Ten Dental, as they always put the patient first and their communication is excellent.
“Our patients have all been extremely happy with the results and the service they receive. Nik is highly qualified and very relaxed with the patients, which has a positive effect on their experience.”
For more information about Ten Dental and The Implant Restoration Course visit Facebook/Implant Restoration Course-IRC, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., visit www.implant-restoration.com or call 020 7622 7610
“The Nomad Pro 2 handheld X-ray machine is great for our practice. The beauty of it is that we can walk around and there is no clutter on the walls – just one fully mobile machine.
“The advantage to us is that radiographs do not have to be taken in only one X-ray room as before. We can move around across multi-surgeries and so our patients don’t have to, which helps them to feel more at ease. As it’s handheld the practitioner can work around the patient much more freely, ensuring they get the most appropriate radiographs.
“The images quality is great too, and perfect for our practice needs.”
To learn more about the fantastic Nomad Pro 2, and the benefits it will bring to your practice contact the Clark Dental team today.
For more information contact Clark Dental on 01270 613750,
email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or visit www.nomadhandheldxray.co.uk
Particularly in such a fast-paced profession as dentistry, where techniques, materials and technologies are rapidly advancing and changing the way treatment is provided, remaining abreast of the latest innovations and ideas is vital. Not only does this ensure competency to treat patients in the most appropriate way, but it also allows practitioners to enhance the dental care and treatment they offer.
What’s more, it’s important to develop knowledge and understanding in a broad range of areas. For example, if you wish to offer implant treatment to patients it is clear that you need to complete advanced training so that you have the skills necessary for the provision of safe and effective services. However, even as a GDP who doesn’t provide such treatment directly to patients, you still need sufficient knowledge that will enable you to assess the health of implant supported restorations that you may encounter.
Whether clinicians require education for the placement, restoration or maintenance of dental implants, it is paramount that any training completed is of the highest calibre.
Passionate about improving awareness of and access to first-class tuition in the field is Ken Nicholson. Ken is the founder of the British Society of Oral Implantology, a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a member of the Faculty of Examiners at RCS Edinburgh, amongst many other accolades. He is also the founder of SmileTube.tv, a learning portal designed to ensure practitioners’ competency in implant treatment. He says:
“The widespread use and published success of dental implant supported restorations is encouraging more and more GDPs to become involved in this treatment modality. A visit to the dentist’s section of the Yellow Pages makes it difficult to ignore the fact that an increasing number of practitioners are using the label ‘Cosmetic and Implant Practice’. Ensuring the clinician has the appropriate knowledge and skills to undertake dental implant treatment is of paramount importance.
“The GDC’s required learning outcomes of undergraduate education for Dentists: The First Five Years states that dental students should ‘be familiar with dental implants as an option in replacing missing teeth’. UK-qualified dentists are not expected to practise implant dentistry without undertaking structured postgraduate training and assessment of competence.
“The first step towards treating a patient is case assessment, where attention to detail and identification of the salient features of the case are essential. Even if a general practitioner does not wish to provide implant treatment, it is almost certain that he or she will be caring for patients with implant-supported restorations. A component of that care will be assessment of the health of the implant restoration(s) for which an understanding of implant dentistry is essential.”
For those wishing to perform implant treatment themselves, it is crucial that any training undertaken is carefully designed to provide both the theoretical knowledge and hands-on experience clinicians need to ensure their clinical competency.
Through SmileTube.tv, practitioners have access to a structured, blended learning programme that is tailored to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skill to place and restore dental implants, in a safe environment. The course involves four online modules, which can be completed at a time and from a place of the delegate’s choosing for ultimate engagement and effectiveness of learning. Training concludes with eight clinical days where delegates can develop practical skills for placing and restoring implants, while under the supervision of leading implant practitioners across the country and with access to cutting-edge facilities.
“The SmileTube.tv ‘Ultimate Implant Year Course’ delivered in partnership with Nobel Biocare provides delegates with the core knowledge and competence in implant dentistry expected of a GDP, as described by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh for the Diploma in Implant Dentistry at the College,” continues Ken. “The knowledge component of the course, and assessment of that knowledge, is delivered online through the purpose designed e-learning platform SmileTube.tv, and delegates are able to revisit any material as many times as they need for the duration of the course. The clinical skills component, and skills assessment, is delivered through one of a network of clinical training centres throughout the UK and Ireland.
“I believe Nobel Biocare to be a global leader in implant dentistry with a hugely impressive and well documented track record. It is a proactive, innovative and forward-thinking company keen to support education and training for the GDP, which arguably offers the most comprehensive range of services, products and materials in the industry. The latest implant design from Nobel Biocare, the NobelParallel® Conical Connection (CC) implant will be one of the implant designs used on the SmileTube.tv course and promises to be an excellent platform for the newcomer to implant dentistry.
“As Nobel Biocare has been innovative in its approach to implant dentistry, SmileTube.tv has been innovative in its approach to education and training in the field. We hope to develop a passionate, global learning community, pushing the boundaries of education and training in implant dentistry to provide a better experience for our learners and a safe and predictable outcome for their patients.”
For more details on the learning opportunities available, please visit www.smiletube.tv, email Janine our Learning Community Facilitator on This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call 0289 252 8522.
For more information about the exciting innovations available from Nobel Biocare, please call 0208 756 3300 or visit www.nobelbiocare.com
But, this research would mean nothing without the endorsement of professional hygienists who have a working knowledge of oral irrigation products. Michael Wheeler is a dental hygienist at Bramcote Dental Practice in Castle Cary and an Honorary Senior Lecturer at the University of Kent. When asked about the products available from Waterpik International, Inc. he said:
“I am a firm advocate of the Waterpik® Water Flosser – both for those patients who are having difficulties in maintaining oral hygiene with bridges or crowns, and those who already demonstrate good oral hygiene routines. The Water Flosser is a very effective product and is relatively easy to use, so it’s really beneficial for all.
“A patient I’d been treating for several years recently highlighted this. She’d had a bridge fitted about 30 years previously and although her oral hygiene was exemplary, she expressed that the bridge caused her some difficulties, especially when it came to maintaining such a high level of oral hygiene. I suggested she incorporate one of the Water Flossers from Waterpik® into her daily cleansing routine, in an attempt to offer her a logical solution to these issues.
“The next time I saw her she was delighted with the results of the oral hygiene adjunct, stating: ‘It’s absolutely life-changing and the best thing I’ve ever used!’ Even I was slightly taken aback by the level of her enthusiasm, but it was great to hear!
“A second patient of mine, a reformed heavy smoker, also noticed an improvement in his oral hygiene with the use of a Water Flosser from Waterpik®.
“It just goes to prove with the right patient, even if their oral hygiene is beyond criticism, you can provide further motivation with the right product.”
Discover the many benefits of clinically proven solutions from Waterpik International, Inc. for yourself, and contact the team today.
For more information on Waterpik International, Inc. please visit www.waterpik.co.uk. Waterpik® products are available at Amazon, in
Boots and at Superdrug stores across the UK and Ireland.
[1] Barnes CM et al (2005) Comparison of irrigation to floss as an adjunct to tooth brushing: effect on bleeding, gingivitis, and supragingival plaque. J Clin Dent 16(3):71-7
[2] Goyal CR et al. Evaluation of the plaque removal efficacy of a water flosser compared to string floss in adults after a single use. J Clin Dent 2013; 24:37-42.
[3] Magnuson B, Harsono M, Stark PC, et al. Comparison of the effect
of two interdental cleaning devices around implants on the reduction
of bleeding: a 30-day randomized clinical trial. Compend Contin Educ
Dent. 2013;34(spec iss 8):2-7.
[4] Sharma N C, Lyle DM, Qaqish JG, et al. E ffect of a dental water jet with
orthodontic tip on plaque and bleeding in adolescent patients with fixed orthodontic
appliances. Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop. 2008;133(4):565-571.
“Referring to Ten Dental is a straightforward and easy process, I just email over the patient’s details and X-rays and Ten Dental contact the patient straight away to arrange the initial consultation.
“Overall my patient’s have found the process very good and are positive about their experience at Ten Dental.
“I feel completely confident in the ability of the Ten Dental team and it is extremely helpful to be able to refer patients into their expert hands to ensure they get the best treatment possible.”
Dr Martin Wanendeya and Dr Nik Sisodia at Ten Dental provide a comprehensive and thorough implant referral service for your patients. They are both renowned experts and are able to deal with all cases. Contact the knowledgeable team at Ten Dental today to find out more.
For more information about Ten Dental and The Implant Restoration Course visit Facebook/Implant Restoration Course-IRC, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., visit www.implant-restoration.com or call 020 7622 7610
“I attended the first course in 2013 with the aim of improving my skill set and providing an additional service to my patients.
“It was fantastic and the tutoring knowledge of Dr Nik Sisodia and Dr Martin Wanendeya was excellent. They provided me with a comprehensive foundation to implant restoration, and through the hands-on elements of the course I am much more confident in placing implant restorations.
“The intimate, almost one-to-one training provided by Nik and Martin allowed me to clarify any queries that I had, and I now have an increased understanding of how to restore more extensive complex cases.
“Offering implant restorations in the practice has added more value to the patient care we are able to provide, as being their referring dentist I have been involved with their treatment from beginning to end.”
For more information about Ten Dental and The Implant Restoration Course visit Facebook/Implant Restoration Course-IRC, email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., visit www.implant-restoration.com or call 020 7622 7610
Today, Nobel Biocare offers an array of cutting-edge solutions to not only enhance clinical outcomes, but to also enable a smooth and easy workflow.
The recently expanded portfolio of products now includes:
All these innovations are available as part of Nobel Biocare’s new complete posterior solution – produced specifically to address common problems faced when placing and restoring implants in the posterior zone.
Highly effective as stand alone solutions, together, these products offer even better results.
So to find out how Nobel Biocare has remained ‘First for 50 Years’, discover the leading innovations available for yourself.
For more information on the Complete Posterior Solution and other exciting innovations available from Nobel Biocare, please call 0208 756 3300 or visit www.nobelbiocare.com
Have you heard about the innovative new complete posterior solution from Nobel Biocare?
Offering a choice of leading implants, abutments and restorative adjuncts, the complete posterior solution has been designed to deliver the increased strength and reliability you need for posterior implant treatments.
It consists of the new NobelActive® Wide Platform and NobelParallel® Conical Connection implants, as well as the Angulated Screw Channel (ASC) abutment and Omnigrip tooling™, which enable a wealth of new restorative possibilities even in limited vertical space.
The atomically-shaped PEEK temporary and healing abutments further serve to optimise the emergence profile, and the NobelProcera® Full-Contour Zirconia (FCZ) Implant Crown provides strength and outstanding aesthetics to complete the restoration.
While effective as standalone innovations, the complete posterior solution ensures predictable and long-lasting results for every patient. Find out more from Nobel Biocare.
For more information, contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300, or visit www.nobelbiocare.com
The large numbers of implants available come in all shapes and sizes with considerable variations in the material used, the morphology of the implant, the type of abutment connection and the surface characteristics1.
From a chemical point of view, they are currently being manufactured from three groups: metals, ceramics and polymers. These are commonly divided by biocompatibility based on the type of biological response they elicit in the long-term interaction with the host tissue. These include biotolerant (stainless steel, chromium-cobalt alloy), bioinert (titanium, carbon) and bioactive (hydroxylapatite, ceramic oxidized aluminium)[2],[3].
Titanium remains the material of choice, as it offers no allergic and immunological reactions and no neoplasm formation. Bone grows along the titanium oxide surface, which is formed immediately (9-10 seconds) after contact with air or tissue fluid and can reach a thickness of 2-10nm in one second. This stable surface is biocompatible and provides high corrosion resistance, high passivity and resistance to chemical attack3,[4].
Implants also vary in design. The majority of modern root form dental implants are threaded, although the thread pitch or profile can differ significantly between manufactures. Threads play an important role in primary stability and long-term success of dental implants. The micro-thread, for example, features small threads around the neck, which engage the dense cortical bone better and distribute occlusal loads more optimally[5].
Surface properties of the implant can also greatly influence the longevity and function of the implant-supported prosthesis[6]. Rough implant surfaces result in better osseointegration than smooth surfaces, though smooth surfaces seem to have a reduced risk of future bone resorption3.
Surface design is one factor along with length, diameter and shape that affects the contact area; this consequently impacts on stability and the ability of the prosthetic to withstand force. The maximal load is proportional to the total bone-implant contact surface, although the ideal fixture size remains to be determined. However, the dimension of implants should be congruent with the bone available at the surgical site and the treatment plan2.
Implant dentistry is an evolving science with new materials and designs continually being introduced. Working with a laboratory that uses the latest technology and research to create high-quality implants is essential.
Sparkle Dental Labs is one such laboratory that continues to invest in research, development and the latest state-of-the-art technology. The wide range of outstanding implants includes those from the most popular brands, which are all crafted by experienced, highly skilled UK technicians. The high quality materials complement the expert craftsmanship and with full traceability for every item, you are guaranteed first class products every time.
Implantology continues to advance, and by working with a leading lab, dental professionals can liaise with expert technicians to ensure the best implant is chosen for every case, aiding integration and optimising success.
For more details about Sparkle Dental Labs, please call 0800 138 6255, email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or visit:
[1] Barfeie, A., Wilson, J., & Rees, J. (2015). Summary of: Implant surface characteristics and their effect on osseointegration. British Dental Journal, 218, 292-293.
[2] Huang, L., Shotwell, J. L., & Wang, H. (2005). Dental implants for orthodontic anchorage. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, 127, 713-722.
[3] Barfeie, A., Wilson, J., & Rees, J. (2015). Implant surface characteristics and their effect on osseointegration. British Dental Journal, 218, 1-9.
[4] Variola, F., et al. (2011). Nanoscale surface modifications of medically-relevant metals: state-of-the art and perspectives. Nanoscale, 3 (2), 335-353.
[5] Association of Dental Implantology. A dentist’s guide to implantology. Available online: http://www.adi.org.uk/profession/dentist_guide/a-dentists-guide-to-implantology.pdf [Accessed 26th January 2015].
[6] Ogle, O. E. (2015). Implant surface material, design, and osseointegration. Dental Clinics of North America, in press.
The FCZ Implant Crown is specifically designed for Conical Connection implants; it is s resilient enough for use in the posterior region and is ideal for molars. Its full-contour nature means there is no need for veneering.
Created with biocompatible materials to ensure maximum stability in the areas it matters most, the FCZ Implant Crown allows you to increase the number of high quality screw-retained restorations you place.
You can also use the FCZ with the innovative Angulated Screw Channel (ASC) abutment and OmnigripTM tooling for ultimate flexibility of placement and restoration.
What’s more, delivering natural-looking tooth colour with eight shades available, the FCZ Crown is easily adjustable without concerns of discoloration for highly aesthetic outcomes every time.
Predictable and flexible, the NobelProcera FCZ Implant Crown is designed to support Nobel Biocare’s Conical Connection imapltns and is an addition to the extensive range of components designed for outstanding results. Contact Nobel Biocare today to find out more about its innovative restoration solutions.
For more information, contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300, or visit www.nobelbiocare.com
“The new ASC abutment has changed the way we work,” they say. “The titanium interface is more predictable than the old zirconia connection we used to rely on.
“The ability to offer a cement-free retention option is very important. Lots of dentists prefer screw-retained restorations because of the hazards of cement remnants and the complexity of cementing.
“The ASC concept definitely gives us a competitive advantage.”
The ASC abutment and accompanying Omnigrip™ tooling offer new opportunities for the restoration of implants in the aesthetic zone. The abutment can be placed at an angle of up to 25 degrees anywhere in a 360-degree radius, providing enhanced access even when working in limited space. With no cement necessary, there is also no risk of irritation to the gingival tissue.
For predictable and highly effective implant restorations in more cases, discover the ASC abutment and Omnigrip tooling from Nobel Biocare.
For more information, contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300 or visit www.nobelbiocare.com
Dr Robert Watson of Dollar Street Dental uses the CS8100 in his practice, he says:
“Our new CS81003D has really transformed the way we diagnose and treat our patients.
“We are a general practice with a special interest in implants and endodontics. Both procedures are transformed by having the ability to view the proposed treatment in a 3D image. There is no steep learning curve when using the machine and the huge benefits are instantly available for both clinician and patients. Well done Carestream for bringing quality panoral and CT scanning to the general practitioner at a cost that makes sense.”
If you are looking to advance your treatment workflows with cutting-edge imaging technologies, contact Carestream Dental today.
For more information, contact Carestream Dental on 0800 169 9692 or visit www.carestreamdental.co.uk
Although traditional dentures still have a place, implant surgery is fast becoming an indispensible part of mainstream dentistry. Global forecasts suggest that Europe will continue to drive and dominate the area of dental implants and prosthetics until at least 2018.[1] What’s more, the current economic recovery is likely to see a further push and market expansion.
Successful restoration for an edentulous patient takes both functional and psychosocial adaptation, but their self-confidence is significantly enhanced[2] by their resulting satisfaction with comfort, function, appearance and health. When compared to conventional complete dentures, data has provided scientific evidence of an improved quality of life after dental implant therapy.[3] Implants are much more convenient for patients and offer improved appearance, looking and feeling like natural teeth. Additionally, patients with positive self-esteem have been shown to experience significantly fewer physical health symptoms[4] and some researchers have gone so far as to suggest that the larger your smile, the longer you may live.[5] Whichever way you look at it, successful smile restoration has both physical and psychological benefits for patients.
The medical advantages of implants are that they help to prevent bone loss and actually stimulate growth to maintain the structure of the face. Also, well-maintained implants placed into adequate bone can be expected to last for many years.
Replacing or restoring missing or damaged teeth with virtually undetectable implants can be a complex procedure. However, it can be extremely rewarding for dentists who are able to not only produce a beautiful smile, but also raise patient self-esteem and confidence.
Successful implant surgery requires considerable attention to detail, outstanding accuracy and a comprehensive set of surgical skills acquired through on-going training and experience. Specialist technology and imaging is also needed to plan and execute implant treatment meticulously, ensuring optimal placement.
One clinician or indeed one practice may not have all the technology, space or the surgical skills required to provide the scope of treatment necessary for all implant surgery, particularly if a practice already provides specialist treatment in an alternative field of dentistry. Equally the patient demographics of the area may not make it financially worthwhile to support this provision. In addition, the training and education clinicians require to place implants successfully takes a significant amount of time as well as expense and often, if this knowledge is not used regularly, it is difficult for practitioners to maintain the skills required to achieve high quality work.
Even when a clinician is qualified to undertake implant surgery, there are still cases that require more specialist surgical skills with treatment sites that require advanced preparation or enhancement before implant surgery can take place. Some cases will require socket augmentation procedures, for example, or advanced regenerative procedures such as guided bone regeneration, bone condensation, ridge splitting, particulate grafting, autogenous block grafting, sinus augmentation, connective tissue grafting and further special methods such as inferior dental nerve lateralisation and distraction osteogenesis.
However, successful implant surgery can be still be delivered by suitably experienced clinicians or specialists in a team approach.
A centre of excellence such as London Smile Clinic provides a referral service to practitioners to undertake implant procedures on their behalf. Dr Zaki Kanaan is a highly trained implantologist, who will work closely with you to form a team, ensuring the best possible results for your patients. Whether you wish to refer more complex cases to Zaki or just refer out part of the overall treatment, the team at London Smile Clinic will keep you informed throughout the procedure. The patient will then return to you for continued treatment or on-going maintenance and care. London Smile Clinic prides itself on delivering a 5 star service and first class dentistry, and referring dentists can be confident that their patients will be in safe hands.
Keeping up in an ever-advancing industry can be both expensive and problematic. Equally, patient expectations are now much more forward thinking with an increase in people wishing to undertake corrective or cosmetic procedures.[6] It is not always possible to provide all services individually but by making use of the technology, facilities and skills offered by referral practices, it is possible to extend your areas of expertise and professionalism to enhance your treatment provision. In doing so, patient satisfaction and confidence is improved and as a result, these patients will return to your practice time and time again.
For more information, please contact 020 7255 2559 or
visit www.londonsmile.co.uk/refer
[1] Millennium Research Group (MRG), the global authority on medical technology market intelligence - http://mrg.net/News-and-Events/Press-Releases/European-Markets-for-Dental-Implants-072811.aspx#sthash.GPLy1315.dpuf [Accessed 11th February 2015]
[2] The psychosocial impacts of implantation on the dental aesthetics of missing anterior teeth patients
P. Chen, S. Yu & G. Zhu. British Dental Journal 213, E20 (2012) Published online: 7 December 2012 | doi:10.1038/sj.bdj.2012.1090.
[3] Roman M. Cibirka, DDS, MS a, Michael Razzoog, DDS, MS, MPH b, Brien R. Lang, DDS, MSc. Critical evaluation of patient responses to dental implant therapy.
[4] Antonucci TC, Peggs JF, Marquez JT. The relationship between self-esteem and physical health in a family practice population. Fam Pract Res J. 1989 Fall-Winter;9(1):65-72.
[5] Ernest L. Abel and Michael L. Kruger. Smile Intensity in Photographs Predicts Longevity
Psychological Science, April 2010; vol. 21, 4: pp. 542-544., first published on February 26, 2010
[6] Adult Dental Health Survey 2009’, Health and Social Care Information Centre, published 24 March 2011
On Wednesday 27th May the dental industry came together to launch The Implant Hub, a unique and exciting new online resource for dentists looking to grow their dental implant business.
This brand new digital hub, at www.theimplanthub.com, provides information on topics that will directly impact profitability for both GDPs and specialists, supporting the business of implant dentistry.
A venue where you can gain valuable insight into growing your dental business, The Implant Hub delivers exclusive support and advice in implant dentistry through articles and blogs to Google Hangouts, as well as LIVE Q&As from our three top coaches: Chris Barrow (Business Coach), Mark Oborn (Marketing Coach) and Dr Nav Ropra (Inspirational Coach).
Speaking about The Implant Hub, Ken O’Brien, General Manager of BioHorizons UK, the team behind this new offering, said:
‘Always mindful that we provide unparalleled support for our clients in the business of implant dentistry – and beyond the sale of implants – The Implant Hub was the natural development in our offering to this industry. We are delighted to launch The Implant Hub and, together with our three coaches, our aim is to provide a resource that helps our clients develop their practices from a business perspective.’
Recently added content includes:
- White Paper Marketing in Implant Dentistry
- How to differentiate yourself from the practice down the road
- Why online marketing is more powerful than conventional marketing techniques.
To see for yourself what The Implant Hub has to offer your implant dentistry business, please visit www.theimplanthub.com.
The Implant Hub is currently available free of charge to all BioHorizons customers. For those who are not BioHorizons customers, please register your details on the website to find out how you can gain full access.
The one thing that has been a constant in my entire career so far, and has been the fundamental guiding force to everything I do, has been my ethical compass.
Where it came from originally I suppose was my upbringing, but then further refined by exposure to teaching (particularly clinical) of such a style it helped me to understand what an important position we as professionals hold, and the huge responsibilities we have to other people, primarily our patients.
Whilst clinical experience and techniques have doubtless changed through my practicing career as it does for all of us, the ethics of how and what I do have remained a fundamental baseline that cannot be compromised in my opinion.
I’m sure for the majority of the profession this rings happily true. So much so I have wrestled with even submitting this blog for publication. After all, none of us know anyone in the profession who could do with taking a good look at themselves and thinking about what I’ve written here…..
There are times when I have had to wrestle with what the right course of action is clinically, but these dilemmas have always been fairly straightforward when put in the perspective of how other medical professionals might have to act, and I’m actually quite grateful that for the vast majority of us our day to day decisions are rarely likely to have life changing impacts on our patients, especially when compared to the huge responsibilities of cardiac surgeons or oncologists for example.
But….
If our ethical compasses have become somehow magnetized by a malign influence that we fail to see, ignore, or indeed we positively allow to affect us in some way, then our actions will have potentially life changing impacts on our patients. Ok, so maybe not as severe as for the medical professionals mentioned above; but certainly at odds with the ‘First do No Harm’ principle we swear an oath to.
I am purposely NOT going to go into the potential malign influences of the NHS contract and how it might be abused or gamed; I leave readers to draw their own conclusions about this after reading this piece. What I will say is that my examples below probably only scratch the surface of what might be happening in our profession.
There is huge increase in the cost of indemnity, and whilst we have a GDC that is not fit for purpose causing at least part of this increase, it surely cannot be solely due to that alone. We can blame no win-no fee solicitors to a degree, but don’t forget that cases have to have some merit to be paid out, even if only on the balance of probabilities. Otherwise, they are defensible.
So, consider the parallel increase in availability of orthodontics and implants in recent years. This blog incidentally is NOT aimed solely at the orthodontic aspect although it may seem so; it is purely written from my personal experience of one aspect of our profession that I have experience in so feel able to comment on a bit more.
These treatments are by their very nature high value items, and potentially have a higher profit margin that some of the more routine treatments offered. The courses maybe expensive, as is the equipment needed to carry out the treatment. Being the principal of a practice that offers both these treatments, I am pretty well placed to know the financial aspects of them. What is worrying is that there seems to be a section of the profession that immediately has a new direction on their ethical compass when they start to offer these services, sometimes after only a weekend course. Admittedly this might apply more to the orthodontic side of things as I think it is now more recognized that implants are not quite as simple as Meccano to install.
But with the increase in availability (or is it an increase in higher pressure marketing and selling??) we see the parallel, and often steeper rise in litigation and Fitness to Practice associated with these treatments. Personally, I think a good chunk of this is due to the magnetism that potentially affects the compass of some of the profession after being exposed to these treatment modalities.
It’s one thing coming away from a weekend composite course having learnt what is likely to be a refinement of an existing technique, to actually introducing a whole new treatment modality to your patient base that wasn’t taught at all at undergraduate level. The ethics of such a situation are different in my eyes. When at least some of the course is given over to how to sell the new treatment to your patients on some courses (rather than spending it further exploring the ethics, assessment, case selection etc) it is not surprising that magnetism is already starting to alter the direction of the needle on your compass…
There is nothing wrong with a return on investment, but it’s how you go about getting that return that might be the problem.
Let me give you some background with regard to my orthodontic experience to put into perspective where I am coming from.
I was fortunate to work as a clinical assistant in the mid 90’s in orthodontics. One morning per week I treated patients under the supervision of a consultant in a regional hospital, and this continued for about 4 or 5 years. By that time I had seen and indeed treated some pretty advanced cases under very close supervision. I was also treating simpler cases in practice as an associate. Along with another general practitioner, we estimated this experience prepared us to treat perhaps 30% more of our orthodontic patients in practice, but more importantly it had taught us how to identify what we definitely couldn’t or shouldn’t treat. The ethics of what we could now do was drilled home all the time since we often got to see the slightly more ‘random’ orthodontic treatments that had failed in the hands of practitioners with experience only of removable appliances at undergraduate level.
We had begun to Know what we Didn’t Know.
Since then I have also been on the courses for commercially available appliances of different types, and had the advantage of my previous experience in looking at the systems and the teaching a little more objectively than perhaps some of the other delegates.
The problem comes when some of our profession don’t have these limiting factors in their internal ethical system. Some are possibly not enough motivated by the desire to always only do the right thing by their patient, but by their own financial and even egotistical drives. There have always been those in our profession who seem to have a sliding scale of principles, and are more driven for their own gains (and the patients may or may not gain as a result). I actually don’t feel that there are any more truly ‘bad guys’ in dentistry now as a percentage than in the past despite what the GDC think; but I think the potential for damage to our patients has increased because perhaps the fundamental ethics we should all have in place, in some are allowed to erode.
Combine this with the further issue now that with a lack of experience at undergraduate level for some aspects of dentistry, the starting point for not knowing what you don’t know is now much lower than perhaps it was in the past. This is where the ethics should come in to play, and whilst I applaud the efforts to fill a gap in the treatment needs by offering training in fields not covered by the undergraduate training, there doesn’t seem to be an ethical ‘lock’ in place with some practitioners to prevent them seeking their financial gain over that of the patient.
More controversially with regards to their ethical direction, perhaps they Don’t (want to) know what they Don’t Know about ethics?
So when the treatment goes awry because of not knowing enough about what wasn’t known, and the ethical direction was slightly (or massively) off, the profession has a HUGE potential for life changing impacts on both patients and its members.
This brings me on to the thorny subject of ‘selling’ in dentistry. Now, I have absolutely NO issues with dentistry as a retail environment, offering services to patients. Indeed, in order to keep a viable business in this ever competitive age, you have to consider how best to let your patients know the services you can offer them. I certainly do, and I feel it is another method of protecting ourselves from criticism that we are not offering a full range of options to our patients.
But ‘selling’ has to be fundamentally and overwhelmingly in the patient’s benefit, and not ours. I worry about some of the techniques I know can be used by some industries that if (or should that be when?) used in ours would exert an influence on the patient designed to get them to agree to treatment whether that is the right thing for them or not, or even more worryingly, whether the practitioner is truly capable of providing the treatment correctly or not. The pound signs appear, the ethics can get completely switched off, and it becomes a one sided benefit.
But what if you actually CAN’T solve those issues? (and are either aware you can’t, or just bite off more than you can chew?). The classical ‘Over Promising and Under Delivering’ is a guaranteed route to problems for patients and the reputation of the profession.
This is where the huge problem occurs. The practitioner that doesn’t know ENOUGH about what he/she doesn’t know, having been blinded by clinical and other courses that seem to offer all the answers to patients problems and get them to agree to treatment, with an underlying anaesthesia of the ethical values (if they ever had one in some cases) for what ever reason is not doing the best for their patient.
At all.
Without the ethical compass pointing in the correct direction, then there are those in the profession who cannot with their hands on the hearts say that they are truly driven by doing the right thing for patients. Take the ego and the financial aspect out, and their direction is quite possibly completely lost.
Until we make sure all our ethical compasses are calibrated properly, I’m afraid the GDC (in whatever guise it takes) will continue to be on our backs, and our Indemnity will continue to rise. The press will see us in the wrong light, and so will patients.
We need a return to the fundamental values of what we do and what that means to us and the patients.
And to do that, The Only Way is Ethics.
Image credit - Paul Downey under CC licence - not modified.
The Diploma in Advanced dental Implantology has been designed for clinicians looking to work at the very forefront of the field.
The two-year training will be held by the prestigious Faculty of Dentistry at the Royal College of Surgeons England (RCS) and supported by leading dental product supplier Nobel Biocare.
Having been involved with the course from inception, Professor StJohn Crean says:
“The RCS Faculty of Dental Surgery’s foundation in recognising excellence was the obvious vehicle for this advanced course; it will be an appropriate arbiter to provide judgement on the level of skill achieved. Those who receive the award would be acknowledged within the industry as having significantly advanced knowledge and skills within the ever-expanding arena of clinical care.”
Further demonstrating the calibre of the course, Professor Paulo Malo says:
“The key to success in every field is quality and excellence. It is not enough to be good. To be good is a concept already embedded in our society. The challenge is to be great, to exceed ourselves and constantly look for the right means to achieve that. Instilling the urge for continuous and progressive growth is the way to do this and this course has that stamp.”
For enquiries or applications, please contact the FDS Education department at the RCS on 020 7869 6815/6814/6813 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
For more information on Nobel Biocare please call 0208 756 3300 or visit www.nobelbiocare.com
By Dr. James C. Grant
This is the 2nd part of an article I wrote outlining my journey of the past 6 years on the Proximerge Dental Implant and why I felt compelled to research and develop a new replacement for the existing dental implants.
This is the link to the 1st part:- https://www.gdpuk.com/resources/implantology/entry/420-why-invent-a-new-dental-implant.
I believe that the Patient is at the center of the Dentist practice, then supported by the finest Surgeon, Dental Lab Tech and Hygienist or Dental Nurse.
The Proximerge implant system integrates an eccentrically shaped platform and anchor implant in the jaw. It is the only technology that can anatomically match the profile of the teeth as they emerge from the bone. Proximerge is currently focused on molars (where the problem is the most significant) but the future designs are in development to provide solutions for all teeth and other applications such as implant-retained dentures.
All current designs use a single round implant screwed into the jawbone to act as an artificial root for replacing lost teeth. However, the footprint of teeth as they emerge form the jawbone is seldom round so this results in an anatomically poor match. The problem is especially pronounced in the multi-rooted molar region as this approach leaves unacceptably large gaps, which trap food and cause patient discomfort, bacteria build-up, and long-term health risk to bone, gum tissue and adjacent teeth. Accumulating bacteria around implants can lead to toxins crossing the membrane barrier and entering the circulatory system. Research has shown these oral bacteria to be associated with many systemic conditions such as heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis and pregnancy complications. In addition, existing implant designs provide a smaller, weaker foundation, which can lead to crown failure from shearing, fracturing of implant materials and bone loss due to excessive forces. Custom abutments and wider diameter implant designs have been developed to help address these issues but still fall short because the source of the problem is the naturally eccentric shape of teeth as they emerge from the bone.
Proximerge is the only technology that can match noncircular shapes in the bone to provide a better biomechanical foundation and anatomically correct interproximal spaces.
This system allows the dentist to provide to the patient a final restoration produced by the dental lab tech that biomimic’s the anatomy and morphology of the tooth being replaced. This natural shape is what the patient should expect from the oral health provider that allows the dental nurse-hygienist to instruct the patient on oral hygiene and maintenance. Without excessive gaps accumulating food and bacteria, the patient and hygienist will be able to keep the area healthy and expect a successful implant restoration.
To discuss the Proximerge system, please email me This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Look forward to hearing your thoughts on the implant system.