The Dentistry Show London took place on 7-8 October. Tamara Milanovic reports back on how to make the most of dental exhibitions as a newcomer.
This year’s Dentistry Show London took place on 7-8 October at Excel London.
The show featured many exhibitors, from dental indemnity companies and surgery equipment suppliers to organisations and charities.
There were six lecture theatres, including a new addition – the practice owners and business management theatre, which covered topics on managing dental complaints, moving from NHS to private, and everything in between.
There was something for every member of the dental team, and it was an eventful weekend for both exhibitors and attendees.
Attending these events for the first time may feel overwhelming and intimidating, which is why we asked a few attendees and exhibitors for their top tips for those who are new to attending dentistry events and shows, and here is what they came up with.
Attend the Dentistry Show lectures
Lectures are a quick way to get situated at a show, especially if you don’t know any other attendees or feel like you’re being pulled in many different directions. Take a look at the list of speakers in the different theatres and attend the ones that interest you the most.
The line-up of speakers this year at The Dentistry Show London was impressive and diverse, including names such as Maria Lessani, the president of the British Endodontic Society, Kevin Lewis, consultant editor for Dentistry magazine, and John Milne, senior national dental adviser at the Care Quality Commission.
The six theatres covered topics on digital dentistry, business management, compliance, clinical studies, private and aesthetic dentistry, and enhanced CPD.
These speakers are there to share valuable insights, advice, and the latest research and technologies in the profession. It’s an excellent opportunity to learn more about the profession and discover areas of dentistry that you may not be exposed to as often in practice.
The theatres run lectures throughout the day, so it’s important that you get organised and plan which lectures you’d like to attend ahead of time.
Meet people and discover new brands
Whether it’s your first year as an exhibitor or an attendee, make the most of the day by networking and meeting as many new faces as you can.
At the exhibition stands, you’ll discover new products, companies, and even areas of dentistry that you weren’t previously familiar with.
‘There’s a lot more to dentistry than I’d ever thought,’ says Dylan, a product designer at Suri.
Everyone is there to network, so don’t feel awkward to approach an unfamiliar face and say hello. Many exhibitors and attendees said their favourite part about attending shows is being able to meet and speak with so many people, especially after a long break during the pandemic.
Likewise, find people that you have previously had contact with, even if it was through email or a quick conversation at a past event. It’s important to strengthen those relationships whenever you get the chance, and it gives you the opportunity to feel more comfortable at future events when you know more people.
At these shows, you can gain insight into the market, meet potential clients, and understand the products out there.
Create a plan
The dentistry show itinerary was packed with information, from a long list of exhibitors to the schedule for lecturers, all in different theatres with overlapping times.
Plan ahead and make sure you prioritise the lectures you want to attend and stands you want to visit. Otherwise, you may end up missing something important or that you were looking forward to.
Get familiar with the speakers and do some research on the ones that spark your interest. That way, you can ask questions and speak to them after their lectures. The background information can give you more value from the lectures and helps you make a lasting impression on speakers.
If you’re attending as an exhibitor, create a list of potential clients or people that you want to create a professional relationship with. Time at the show flies, so it’s important to get organised beforehand and use your time most efficiently.
If necessary or beneficial, set up meetings during your lunch break. This is your chance to improve engagement and get your brand’s name out there.
Have fun at the Dentistry Show!
There is a lot going on at these dental shows, from all-day lectures to networking. There is an expectation to absorb all the knowledge, remember new faces, and discover new brands. However, don’t forget to enjoy the show as well!
Many stands were set up with fun, interactive activities. For example, Dentex had a smoothie bike competition, with the winner walking away with a brand new iPad for having the fastest time. It also had a churros stand and jellybean contest with more prizes to be won.
Henry Schein had a popcorn machine, which many show-goers seemed to enjoy! DD was demonstrating live facial injections at its stand, which also attracted an intrigued crowd.
When asked what their favourite part of the show was, the team from the CQC replied: ‘Meeting up in person!’ It’s a chance to see old and new friends, catch up with colleagues and have a team day out.
Attending dentistry events helps create a sense of community and purpose in your career. It can help you reignite your love for dentistry while learning about the exciting advancements and opportunities within the profession.
Make sure you check FMC’s 2023 line up of exhibitions and events, simply by visiting www.dentistry.co.uk.
Follow Dentistry.co.uk on Instagram to keep up with all the latest dental news and trends.
