“We enjoyed a top-level scientific program. Highlights were the interdisciplinary approach, the live surgeries and also an excellent program for the laboratory technicians who play a very important role in treatment – this is crucial for the benefit of the patients.” Dr. Beatriz Aranguena, Spain

“Nobel Biocare events are always interesting – lecturers from all over the world providing different concepts and approaches are widely represented here. They help to follow trends in the contemporary dental market and to be at the cutting edge, both clinically and scientifically.” Dr. Ivan Kondratiev, Russia

“The Nobel Biocare symposium in China has been well organized with fantastic academic topics. It provides dentists with a good chance to be exposed to the latest ideas and technologies of the dental implant industry.” Prof. Ye Lin, China

1.  Depending on clinician preference and close cooperation with the laboratory.

2.  Imburgia M. Patient and team communication in the iPad era – a practical appraisal. Int J Esthet Dent 2014,9(1): 26-29

3.  Imburgia M, Coachman C. Using digital devices to improve communications between clinicians and patients during implant- prosthetic treatment: a clinical study [#519]. 23rd Annual Scientific Meeting of the European Association for Osseointegration. Rome, Italy: Wiley; 2014. p.538

Disclaimer: Some products may not be regulatory cleared/released for sale in all markets. Dental professionals should contact the local Nobel Biocare representative for current product assortment and availability.

Nobel Biocare is a world leader in the field of innovative implant-based dental restorations. The company’s portfolio offers solutions from single tooth to fully edentulous indications with dental implant systems (including key brands NobelActive®, Brånemark System® and NobelReplace®), a comprehensive range of high-precision individualized prosthetics and CAD/CAM systems (NobelProcera®), diagnostics, treatment planning and guided surgery solutions (NobelClinician® and NobelGuide®) and biomaterials (creos™). Nobel Biocare supports its customers through all phases of professional development, offering world-class training and education along with practice support and patient information materials. The company is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. Production takes place at five sites located in the United States, Sweden, Japan and Israel. Products and services are available in over 80 countries through subsidiaries and distributors.

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

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Small, strong and enduring, and completing the Straumann portfolio for narrow space indications, the Ø 2.9mm implant brings all the Bone Level Tapered (BLT) advantages to narrow interdental spaces.

The Straumann Bone Level Tapered (BLT) Ø 2.9mm implant is the implant solution for narrow interdental spaces or ridges. The smallest in the Bone Level Tapered range, it completes the portfolio for narrow space indications and integrates seamlessly with the reliable Straumann® Dental Implant System.

Benefitting from the clinically-proven BLT design, it has a parallel body with full-depth thread and three cutting notches for self-cutting in underprepared sites. Its apically tapered design delivers excellent primary stability in soft bone and fresh extraction sockets as it adequately compresses the underprepared osteotomy and allows the clinician to effectively master the patient’s anatomy, even when limited, and protects the anatomical structure with its round tip.

As well as the tapered implant body, all Straumann BLT implants possess the powerful combination of Roxolid®, SLActive®, Bone Control Design™, CrossFit® connection and prosthetic diversity.

Roxolid®

Roxolid has enabled Straumann to create smaller implants than ever before, thus reducing invasiveness, by preserving bone and minimising the amount of bone grafting required. Roxolid is a high performance alloy, specifically designed to offer higher strength than pure titanium, making these smaller implants possible. Smaller implants increase the range of treatment options available to the clinician and patient acceptance will be higher when less invasive treatment options are offered.

SLActive®

The SLActive surface allows fast and predictable osseointegration, enabling safer and faster treatment and higher treatment predictability in challenging protocols. Clinically proven to provide safer and faster treatment in 3-4 weeks for all indications, it increases safety during the early healing phase and leads to a superior structural and functional connection between the implant and vital bone.

Bone Control Design™ and CrossFit® connections

Bone Control Design optimises crestal bone preservation while the CrossFit connections simplify handling and increase confidence in component positioning, ensuring precision against rotation and long-term flexibility.

Prosthetic diversity is ensured by compatibility with the full range of Straumann prosthetic components, including the unique oval design for optimal soft tissue management in smaller spaces.

The BLT Ø 2.9mm implant is indicated for single-tooth restorations of the central and lateral incisors in the mandible, and lateral incisors in the maxilla.

And coming soon… single use instruments will allow you to place the BLT Ø 2.9mm implant with sterile, disposable burs, drills, taps and profilers, ensuring your instruments are always sharp and minimising the cost and inconvenience of sterilisation.

For more information on the range of Straumann® Bone Level Tapered Implant solutions, please contact Straumann on 01293 651230 or visit straumann.co.uk.

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Dr Neel Patel and Dr Vinit Gohil, both Specialists in Prosthodontics, explain the benefits of guided surgery, why they use it routinely and how anyone involved in implant dentistry can incorporate guided surgery and its benefits into their everyday practice.

The increase in predictability and accuracy that digital dentistry enables is now well-documented, and we have been taking advantage of this for some time at our practice in Oxford with the use of guided surgery and implant placement. Although until now we have been incorporating conventional impressions and study casts in the planning stages of the guided surgery workflow, the development of intraoral scanners facilitate an entirely ‘digital’ workflow. In addition to investing in an intraoral scanner for digital impressions, we hope to also incorporate a 3D printer into our practice, thus completing the entire workflow digitally.

Why guided surgery?

Although it might seem obvious, the key to successful implant-supported restorations is the correct placement of implants with respect to the supported restoration. It is well-documented that both biological and hardware complications are commonplace in implant dentistry, and unfavourable implant positioning will greatly contribute to this. Optimal plaque control and maintenance of the peri-implant tissues is critical, and the transition between the implant, abutment and restoration need to be ideal in order to facilitate this.

Where possible, we plan for screw-retained restorations and prostheses, as not only does this help facilitate maintenance of our patients’ implants and restorations, but can also help minimise complications as access to both the peri-implant tissues and abutment screws is always possible.

Optimal implant positioning also avoids the need for complex custom abutments, suprastructures and angled screw systems, thus relatively simplifying the restorative phase and can also reduce the overall cost.

The majority of our dental implants are placed with a guided surgical template where possible, even straightforward ones, as the guided surgical template ensures that the implant is placed in, or very close to, the position it was planned to be in. Many of us who have placed dental implants will be able to relate to the occasional difficulties in getting the dental implant to be placed exactly within the prepared osteotomy. Using a guided surgical template can reduce the margin of error significantly when compared to ‘freehand’ or non-guided placement.

Restoration-guided implant placement

The ideal workflow involves being able to visualise the proposed definitive tooth position, shape and form. This can be either a conventional diagnostic wax/tooth set up, that has been scanned and formatted into a surface scan (.STL file) or even a digital wax/tooth set up. Both of these can be imported into many of the available implant planning software together with the patient’s 3D CBCT images. The surface scans (.STL files) and CBCT images are aligned together through a process of segmentation (partitioning of the digital images into multiple objects) and merging (superimposing identical surfaces together). Although it may sound complicated, both these processes are easily done with a few clicks of the mouse in coDiagnostiX and other planning software.

The dental implants can be precisely planned with reference to the proposed restoration/tooth position, and the software can be easily manipulated to not only change the implant position, but also visualise potential abutment designs and relationship of proposed implant positions to vital structures.

Designing the guided surgical template is also straightforward in most cases. However, at this stage, all the information a laboratory would require to design and print it can also be transferred across to them with the press of a button.

The next step is to trial the surgical template in the patient’s mouth to make sure it fits correctly, and although uncommon (provided the planning is accurate), it can be easily adjusted and modified if required to obtain a stable and precise fit. The surgical procedure involves using the guided surgical template at every step of the osteotomy preparation sequence, followed by placing the implant through the guided surgical template.

We feel it is important to use the guided surgical template for every part of the osteotomy preparation including placement of the dental implant (where available), and not just for the pilot drill, as advocated by other guided surgery systems. As we have mentioned already, getting the dental implant to be placed exactly within the prepared osteotomy can be challenging, especially in softer bone and sites with difficult access. The guided surgical template will ensure that your implant is guided into the same place as the osteotomy and more often than not, if planned appropriately, the angulation does not need to be constantly checked (especially with adjacent implants).

We believe restoration-guided implant placement with guided surgical templates will become commonplace in implant dentistry and form an integral part of the patient treatment workflow.  Nearly all implant practitioners utilise 3D CBCT imaging to help aid assessment of implant sites, adjacent anatomical vital structures and to plan proposed implant positioning. It is now even routine to incorporate the proposed restoration/tooth positon with a radiographic template and in the absence of one, even easier to import the required information through ‘segmentation’ (data separation) and ‘merging’. With all this information already present, all it takes is a couple of small steps to transfer this vital information into a guided surgical template which, when planned appropriately, will allow the implant to be placed precisely where it was planned to.

Straumann Restoration-Guided Implant Placement Course

Through our postgraduate teaching and lecturing experience, it has become apparent to us that many clinicians are nervous about taking the next step that would allow them to incorporate guided surgical templates into their practices and implant workflow. As such we have  teamed up with Straumann ITI to provide a two-day course on Restoration-Guided Implant Placement including the use of coDiagnostiX planning software, guided surgical templates and the Straumann Guided Surgery system.

The course is aimed at clinicians who are competent in implant dentistry and would like to incorporate guided implant placement into their everyday practice, and those clinicians that are just getting into implant dentistry and would like to incorporate the concept of Restoration Guided Implant Placement for their patients. Most of the course will be dedicated to live demonstrations and hands-on experience of the coDiagnostiX planning and guide design software. On the second day, each participant will complete the entire coDiagnostiX planning and guided surgical template design process, prior to learning about the Straumann Guided Surgery system and using it to place implants with a guided surgical template.

We appreciate there is a learning curve in using guided surgical templates, and although they are by no means a substitute for surgical experience, we feel they can greatly enhance the overall treatment outcome. For us, one of the main advantages of restoration driven implant placement with guided surgical templates, is the ability to plan for screw-retained restorations and prostheses with optimal implant positioning. This ensures that our patients’ implant restorations and prostheses are ‘retrievable’, facilitating future maintenance and hopefully minimising the risk of subsequent complications.

We usually only have one opportunity  to get it right with implant placement, and it is important we do so as it is well-documented that the implant position will influence numerous factors that will ultimately determine the success and longevity of our patients’ implant treatment in the long-term.

The Straumann ITI Restoration-guided Implant Placement course takes place on 3^rd November 2017. For more information or to book your place, contact Straumann on 01293 651230 or visit http://www.cvent.com/d/ctqnvx

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BDS MFDS MClinDent MPros

Neel is a registered Specialist in Prosthodontics, and after graduating from the University of Bristol in 2002, he worked both in the Community Dental Service and General Dental Practice, and also held hospital posts in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. He subsequently completed 4 additional years of specialist training in Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics at the UCL Eastman Dental Institute during which he obtained the MClinDent in Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics, with Distinction, and the Membership in Prosthodontics from the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh.

Neel received a scholarship from the International Team for Implantology (ITI) to undertaken a 2 year full time Fellowship in Implant Dentistry at the Center for Implant Dentistry at the University of Florida, Gainesville, USA. He has gained extensive experience in all aspects of restorative, aesthetic and implant dentistry including complex treatments and managing the failing dentition. His special interests include the use of digital technology in dentistry, in particular with guided implant placement and 3D planning, and the management of complications with dental implants.

In addition to his private and referral practice limited to restorative and implant dentistry, he is also involved in post-graduate dental education and lectures both locally and nationally on topics related to implant dentistry and fixed and removable prosthodontics. Neel is a registered speaker and mentor for the UK & Ireland Section of the International Team for Implantology (ITI) and part of the Straumann Clinical Mentoring Programme for other dentists starting out in implant dentistry.  He is co-director of the Oxford ITI Study Club and is part of the UK & Ireland Young ITI Committee.

Vinit Gohil

BDS MFDS MClinDent MPros

Vinit is recognised as a specialist in Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics by the General Dental Council. He graduated with honours from the Guy’s, King’s & St Thomas’ Dental Institute, King’s College London. Following graduation he undertook 3 years of hospital-based further training in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Paediatric and Restorative Dentistry. Vinit also gained experience in sedation and special care treating anxious and medically compromised patients.

He subsequently completed 4 years of specialist training in Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics at the UCL Eastman Dental Institute, during which he obtained the MClinDent in Fixed and Removable Prosthodontics, with Distinction, and the Membership in Prosthodontics from the Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh. During his training he gained extensive experience in all aspects of restorative and implant dentistry including complex rehabilitations and managing the failing dentition.

He now principally works in private practice in Oxford and his clinical practice is limited to implant and restorative dentistry. His main clinical interests include management of failing crown and bridgework, rehabilitation of patients with dental implants utilising digital technology, removable dentures and dental implant complications.

In addition to his private practice, he is also involved in post-graduate dental education and lectures both locally and nationally on topics related to implant dentistry and fixed and removable prosthodontics. Vinit is a visiting lecturer at the UCL Eastman Dental Institute where he is involved in teaching post-graduate dentists and is an examiner for the UCL Diploma in Implant Dentistry. Vinit is also involved in teaching on the MSc in Dental Implantology at the University of Bristol. Vinit is also a registered speaker for the UK & Ireland Section of the International Team for Implantology (ITI) and co-director of the ITI Study Club in Oxford.

The Straumann® Bone Level Tapered Implant features the Straumann® Bone Control Design™ and the CrossFit® connection together with its corresponding prosthetic CrossFit® components from the Bone Level product portfolio.

The implant has an apically tapered and self-cutting design which, when combined with our Roxolid material and SLActive surface, make it particularly suitable for anatomically and clinically challenging situations like those involving soft bone or fresh extraction sockets where higher initial stability is required.

The Straumann® Bone Level Tapered Implant now includes a surgical protocol using single use drills, profile drills and taps designed for flexibility and efficiency. Single patient drills always comes sterile, sharp, ready to use. After the surgery, simply dispose of the single patient instruments and save your clinic the time for reprocessing and space for storage.

For more information on our range of Straumann® Bone Level Tapered Implant solutions, including the new single use instruments, please contact Straumann on 01293 651230 or visit straumann.co.uk.

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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

Dentistry is moving into a new digital age and clinicians across the UK are seeking training and support to adopt these technological advances.

Straumann and Implants Centres of Excellence (ICE) recognise this demand and have collaborated to provide a valuable opportunity to see the full range of digital workflow solutions and educational opportunities currently available.

Straumann CARES® Digital Solutions combines interconnected software platforms and open, fully-validated workflows, alongside a wide variety of materials to deliver an unrivalled digital solution. On the 17^th and 18^th July, they will be bringing all this technology to the Old Trafford home of Manchester United on their massive 16-metre long Digital Performance Roadshow juggernaut which houses a full digital workflow.

Nearby at the ICE headquarters and hospital, the Straumann CARES® Digital Solutions portfolio will also be on display, including leading chairside scanning and milling technology and 3D printing, in the impressive ICE facilities which include training surgeries, an operating theatre, a laboratory and lecture facilities.

For a fully immersive experience, attendees can dive into a virtual reality experience, showcasing Straumann’s impressive digital portfolio and centralised manufacturing facilities. The Straumann and ICE team will also be on hand to advise and give a full overview of different product solutions.

Stephen Booth, Country Manager, Straumann UK comments, “We are delighted to be working closely with ICE as this underpins our commitment to facilitating a successful educational pathway for clinicians, whilst delivering the latest innovations and ultimately improving the patients’ quality of life’.”

For the perfect opportunity to gain direct experience of the latest digital products and an insight into the latest training available, book a free place today at straumanndigitalperformance.co.uk

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The innovative On1 restorative concept from Nobel Biocare offers practitioners novel treatment options to optimize implant placement and restoration.

Raising the connection for restorative components from bone to tissue level, the On1 Base remains in position from placement to finalization, providing undisturbed soft tissue healing. Furthermore, with two height options available, there is the flexibility to change the On1 Base should the thickness of the soft tissue require it in the short or long-term.

From here, the On1 Healing Cap or On1 Temporary Abutment can be connected to the base. Both support the intraoral scanning approach, which facilitates conventional impression-taking procedures for maximum accuracy and precision.

The On1 concept can be used with three different conical connection implant systems: NobelActive, NobelParallel and NobelReplace, which provides outstanding surgical flexibility and ease of use. For the restorative dentist, the On1 Base allows for an improved patient experience, as well as simplifying the placement of restorative components due to the tissue level base.

Discover today how the On1 concept from Nobel Biocare can help you achieve exceptional results for your patients.

For more information, contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300, or visit www.nobelbiocare.com

“The developments of the NobelClinician™ system for diagnostics and treatment planning have been absolutely superb throughout the last decade, particularly with regards to the smart fusion techniques,” says Dr Sharif Khan from Rockingham House Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry in West Yorkshire. “I have also been impressed by the rapid treatment protocols that can be used to minimise treatment times, as this is something modern patients are concerned about.”

With its Smart Fusion technology, NobelClinician™ combines 3D imagery of anatomical structures with soft tissue information from optical scans for superior visualisation, diagnostics and treatment planning.

Like all solutions from Nobel Biocare, the NobelClinician™ software is supported by a wealth of clinical studies.

For example, it is possible to accurately assess the available bone volume and this has been found to enhance predictability of treatment.

The bone volume can also be properly optimised by matching the implant design and drilling sequence to the bone quality for increased primary stability.

What’s more, virtual planning and communication with NobelClinician™ has been linked with higher treatment acceptance and better patient satisfaction with care and treatment outcomes.

So to make the most of technologies you can trust to improve your diagnostics, treatment planning and treatment outcomes, contact Nobel Biocare today.

For more information, contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300, or visit www.nobelbiocare.com

[1] Pozzi A, Sannino G, Barlattani A. Minimally invasive treatment of the atrophic posterior maxilla: a proof-of-concept prospective study with a follow-up of between 36 and 54 months. J Prosthet Dent 2012;108(5):286-97. 


[1] Scotti R, Pellegrino G, Marchetti C, Corinaldesi G, Ciocca L. Diagnostic value of NobelGuide to minimize the need for reconstructive surgery of jaws before implant placement: a review. Quintessence Int 2010;41(10):809-14.

[1] Katsoulis J, Enkling N, Takeichi T, Urban IA, Mericske-Stern R, Avrampou M. Relative bone width of the edentulous maxillary ridge. Clinical implications of digital assessment in presurgical implant planning. Clin Implant Dent Relat Res. 2012;14(Suppl 1):e213-23.

[1] Katsoulis J, Pazera P, Mericske-Stern R. Prosthetically Driven, Computer-Guided Implant Planning for the Edentulous Maxilla: A Model Study. Clin Implant Dent Relat Res 2009;11(3):238-245.

[1] Schnitman PA, Hayashi C, Han RK. Why guided when freehand is easier, quicker, and less costly? J Oral Implantol. 2014;40(6):670-8. 


[1] Imburgia M. Patient and team communication in the iPad era - a practical appraisal. Int J Esthet Dent 2014;9(1):26-39.

[1] Imburgia M, Coachman C. Using digital devices to improve communications between clinicians and patients during implantprosthetic treatment: a clinical study [#519]. 23rd Annual Scienti c Meeting of the European Association for Osseointegration. Rome, Italy: Wiley; 2014. p. 538. 

Balraj Sekhon discusses the benefits of guided surgery to deliver predictable treatment outcomes

Although implant dentistry has evolved into one of the most predictable treatment alternatives for patients who are missing teeth, we are still striving to improve our surgical and restorative techniques. The foundation for all procedures should be a proper diagnosis to determine the appropriate treatment options.

To help take the guesswork out of the diagnostic phase the use of 3D imaging (CBCT) with interactive treatment planning software, such as coDiagnostiX™, aids the planning of implant placement, the design of surgical drill guides and the ultimate restoration. I have found that by incorporating a digital implant planning system and working closely with a lab who offer CAD/CAM production, I benefit from well-designed surgical drill guides and high-quality implant-borne restorations. This in turn, reduces complications and enhances the communication within the interdisciplinary team.

The use of CBCT and coDiagnostiX™ has greatly impacted my ability to diagnose in all dimensions, allowing a full appreciation of individual, patient-specific anatomy and a clear understanding of the existing quantity and quality of bone, trajectory of the alveolus, and location of vital structures. It also serves as a powerful communication tool for patients, colleagues, and with my lab of choice.

Digital workflow for implants
The ideal for me is to achieve prosthetically driven implant reconstruction. To achieve this, I need a complete understanding of the relationship between the tooth and the underlying bone. In addition, proper diagnosis may require working closely with a lab to create ‘virtual’ diagnostic wax-ups of the surgical guide and the proposed final restoration, allowing adjustments to be made to achieve the best possible outcome. Therefore, “it’s not the scan, it’s the plan” that becomes my driving force.

The coDiagnostiX™ system offers many options for diagnosis, consultation and seamless workflow integration. Virtual implants of known length and diameter can be simulated within the receptor site, establishing the proper trajectory of the implant within the cross-sectional image and in relation to the desired restorative option (i.e. screw- or cement-retained). Using advanced software features and the process of segmentation, the existing tooth root can be virtually extracted and the proposed implant with an abutment projection can then be positioned to emerge through the desired restorative result.

Balraj Sekhon - BDS (Manc), MJDF RCS (Lond), PGCert (UCLan), MSc Dental Implantology (Distinction)
Balraj graduated from the University of Manchester in 2003 and has since worked throughout Manchester providing the highest quality dental care. He is one of the principal dentists at Circle Dental. Balraj’s ethos is to treat every patient with the utmost care and provide the best evidence-based dentistry.

Since qualification he has been spent many hours learning from the best dentists in the country in the fields of restorative and implant dentistry. He has acquired the Diploma of Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties from the Royal College of Surgeons and a Masters Degree in Dental Implantology with Distinction from the University of Central Lancashire. Balraj is also a published author in the Journal of Operative Dentistry.

Balraj has studied dental implantology to the highest possible standard and currently works with a Yorkshire-based surgical team with Specialist surgeon, Dr Robert Dyas. He has a growing referral network of practices and has also managed problems encountered by other dentists. He has a keen interest in teaching and this has been recognised by his appointment as Educational Supervisor by the Northwest NHS Deanery.

For more information on case planning and guided surgery, contact Straumann on 01293 651230 or visit one of our sites:

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Balraj Sekhon highlights two cases to illustrate the benefits of guided surgery

As a general dentist, I have found using advanced implant planning software such as coDiagnostiX™ to be very beneficial and I have been using it fully for about a year now. I don't have a CT scanner in-house (it would be difficult for me to justify the costs as a mixed practice), so we refer our patients to a local scan centre and they send us an open file scan that we can place into the software. Once in the coDiagnostiX^TM system we can take the various measurements and assess the best placement for the implant.

coDiagnostiX^TM is an investment in terms of direct cost and time to gain the depth of knowledge to fully utilise all the elements and tools in the system. However, I firmly believe it improves the patient journey, delivers a more efficient surgery process, reduces stress, and ultimately delivers better dentistry.

Case example 1 using Straumann coDiagnostiX^TM

Replacement of two posterior teeth with screw-retained crowns.

Case example 2 using Straumann coDiagnostiX^TM

Replacement of upper left central incisor with screw retained crown.

Balraj Sekhon - BDS (Manc), MJDF RCS (Lond), PGCert (UCLan), MSc Dental Implantology (Distinction)

Balraj graduated from the University of Manchester in 2003 and has since worked throughout Manchester providing the highest quality dental care. He is one of the principal dentists at Circle Dental. Balraj’s ethos is to treat every patient with the utmost care and provide the best evidence-based dentistry.

Balraj has studied dental implantology to the highest possible standard and currently works with a Yorkshire-based surgical team with Specialist surgeon, Dr Robert Dyas. He has a growing referral network of practices and has also managed problems encountered by other dentists. He has a keen interest in teaching and this has been recognised by his appointment as Educational Supervisor by the Northwest NHS Deanery.

For more information on case planning and guided surgery, contact Straumann on 01293 651230 or visit one of our sites:

straumann.co.uk

straumanndigitalperformance.co.uk

therevu.co.uk

Facebook: Straumann UK

Twitter: @StraumannUK

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

“The conference provided a very informative day, covering a varied range of topics and I found it interesting to see all the new developments and research. It was great that so many speakers who are top of the profession worldwide came to Dublin and I found it useful to get reaffirmation that we’re following good protocols and achieving the same success rates as those international leaders.” – Dr Eoin Fleetwood, Eyre Square Dental Clinic in Galway

Entitled Osseointegration Reimagined, Nobel Biocare’s Dublin Team Conference 2016 highlighted just how far dental implantology has come since those early days.

The full-day programme brought a piece of June’s Global Symposium in New York to Ireland, demonstrating Nobel Biocare’s total commitment to education and innovation. An array of world-class speakers took delegates on a journey through the development of dental implants, with lectures in the morning and smaller masterclasses and workshops in the afternoon.

From where it all began, Professor David Harris kicked off proceedings by paying tribute to Professor Per-Ingvar Brånemark, before Dr Bertil Friberg reminisced about what dental implantology was like in the 80s. It seems strange to realise that only 20 years ago, patients had to wear a denture for one year before implants could be placed in healed extraction sites!

Professor Hannes Watchel, Dr Ana Ferro and Dr Paul O’Reilly then offered their own experiences from Munich, Lisbon and Ireland, each emphasising the benefits of implants for patients and their quality of life. Modern treatment options for compromised patients were also discussed, with Dr Dawood considering situations where customised implants, cutting-edge 3D printing and innovative ideas were combined to deliver truly life-changing solutions.

Exploring the height of implant innovation, the final plenary session challenged the status quo with respect to the digital integrated workflow and CAD/CAM restorations and highlighted the importance of respecting the soft tissue. Dr Rompen also introduced the exciting new On1 concept, which brings the restorative platform from bone level to tissue level for maximum soft tissue attachment and optimised healing.

Throughout the morning’s lectures, a clear trend developed. All speakers – regardless of specialism or nationality – were passionate about simplifying the clinical workflow for a faster, more predictable and more cost-effective procedure for the patient.

Dr Robert Bowe from Bowe Dental Clinic in Limmerick commented:

“This was a very well-organised conference, where speakers provided different, innovative solutions to implant problems we face every day. Throughout the morning sessions there was a lot of new evidence presented, as a result of which I will look to modify my own practice. As with all Nobel Biocare events, I learnt something new and came away with a renewed enthusiasm for implant dentistry. It is also great to have the opportunity to talk with colleagues – it’s reassuring to know that we all face the same challenges and that there are solutions out there!”

In addition to all this, there were plenty of opportunities to network with industry-leading professionals, while also catching up with friends and colleagues. The Innovation Evening saw delegates and speakers come to together to enjoy a fantastic meal and entertainment, and a great time was had by all.

Paul O’Reilly, Scientific Co-Chair, added:

“Nobel Biocare is to be commended for assembling an impressive array of national and international speakers for this conference. As well as some outstanding lectures, a programme of hands on workshops and masterclasses allowed attendees to try innovative products, learn new techniques and gain an appreciation for the rapid advances that are occurring in treatment options for our patients.”

For more information, contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300, or visit www.nobelbiocare.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.

The Nobel Biocare Global Symposium is a must-attend event for all professionals looking to take their implant dentistry to the next level.

The exciting four-day programme will be delivered by more than 150 industry experts from around the world, presenting a dynamic combination of podium lectures, interactive forums, masterclasses and hands-on workshops. Headline speakers will include:

• Oded Bahat
• Edmond Bedrossian
• Markus Blatz
• Wolfgang Boltz
• Steve Bongard
• Chee Chang
• Renato Cocconi

A vast selection of topics will be explored from immediate loading protocols to soft tissue management, materials and techniques for bone regeneration, screw-retained restorations and much, much more.

Key Nobel Biocare innovations designed to enhance your practice and help you grow your business will be discussed as well, including NobelClinician™, the All-on-4® treatment concept and the NobelActive® Wide Platform implant.

In addition to the outstanding educational programme, the Nobel Biocare Global Symposium will also offer fantastic social and networking opportunities, giving professionals from all corners of the globe the chance to meet and learn from those at the very forefront of the field.

To find out more or to register, visit the website today.

For more information, contact Nobel Biocare on 0208 756 3300, or visit www.nobelbiocare.com

“Currently, I use Impregum Penta for all my indirect restorations and implant work: it is a superior impression material,” says Dr Adyl Asani, principal dentist at TwentyOne Dental in Hove.

“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

Dr Prash Patel from Beech Lane Dental has been working with Ten Dental and in particular Nik Sisodia for about five years. Commenting on his association with the Ten Dental team, Dr Patel said:

“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

Clinical competency is the foundation for excellence in dentistry. Through high quality and on-going training and education, professionals acquire and develop the appropriate skills that enable them to deliver safe and effective dental treatment to their patients.

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

A lot of research into the benefits of using Water Flosser as opposed to string floss has been conducted to date. Independent research studies have shown that the Water Flosser was up to 50% more effective at reversing gingivitis, up to 93% more effective for reducing bleeding and can remove 29% more plaque than string floss.[1]^,[2] It is also significantly more effective for implant and orthodontic patients who are more susceptible to developing gingival inflammation.[3]^,[4]

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.

Although dental implants have been used for around fifty to sixty years, it used to be that they were considered very much a last resort, and only really meant for those patients who really struggled with their dentures.  However, with recent advances in cosmetic dentistry, and the accessibility thereof, people are beginning to realise that there is a better, more comfortable and potentially more permanent way. Dental implants, whereby a biocompatible titanium screw, inserted into the jawbone, replaces the failed root of the tooth with a prosthetic tooth, crown or bridge are becoming more and more popular.  Whilst they’re still considered ‘cosmetic’ dentistry they bring far more benefits than just a lovely smile – they can improve speech which has been affected by tooth loss; improve eating and allow the patient to eat foods which may otherwise cause them a problem; prevent deterioration of the surrounding bone; have no negative impact on surrounding teeth and, due to their completely natural appearance and feel, dramatically improve confidence and self-esteem.

As with all cutting-edge techniques, people may have concerns about whether dental implants are for them, what problems may occur, and most commonly, how long will they last?  After all, a smile is possibly the most clear and instant form of non-verbal communication and if that’s compromised then life in general can be adversely affected.

The simple – and rather reassuring - answer is that, as dental implants actually fuse with the bone, they could quite literally last a lifetime (although, as with other surgical implant procedures, there is no lifetime guarantee) and cared for correctly, should certainly last many years.  This also makes them an economical solution in the longer term, as the initial treatment can cost little more than more conventional options.  However – and this is a big however – this very much depends on two important aspects:

1.      Expert Aftercare

This is why it is so crucial to ensure you use the very best specialist dental practice, one which has an exceptional reputation in dental implants and restorative dental treatment.  When researching which to use, you will need a comprehensive examination and consultation resulting in a distinct and individual treatment plan detailing exactly what treatment is proposed, the total cost of the procedure, what experience the dentist has in this work, and what the alternatives, if any, could be. 

They should provide clear guidance and instruction on how best to care for your implants along with regular maintenance appointments and ideally as much help and advice as you need, even long after treatment has finished.

2.      Ongoing Hygiene Care

Meticulous hygiene, inter-dental cleaning, perhaps an anti-bacterial mouthwash and regular check-ups are imperative whether teeth are natural or not and the general health of the rest of the mouth and gums is fundamental to the success of implants – as well as the longevity of natural teeth. 

Implants themselves do not decay but the build-up of plaque around the surrounding gum can cause inflammation which may even lead to peri-implantitis, a bacterial infection which causes gradual loss of the bone supporting the implant, and the ultimate failure of implants.  Inadequate oral hygiene is the number one cause of failed dental implants.

A healthy diet, avoiding sugary foods as much as possible is also vital to all dental health and thus the success of implanted teeth, as is the avoidance of smoking.

Observation of common sense dental care and overall good health, along with an expert practitioner will give the very best chance of your implants lasting for a very long time – and give you reason to smile for many years to come.

Article supplied by London City Smiles, specialists in dental implants and cosmetic dentistry procedures.