Today we’re celebrating National Dental Hygienist and Dental Therapist Day, a day dedicated to the invaluable contributions of dental hygienists and dental therapists.
Supported by the British Association of Dental Therapists (BADT), the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT) and the Irish Dental Hygienist’s Association (IDHA), this new national day – on 1 May – commemorates the day direct access came into force for dental hygienists and dental therapists in 2013.
To celebrate this new national day, Dentistry has been hosting an ongoing campaign – sponsored by NSK – to highlight the achievements, challenges, and evolution of dental hygienists and dental therapists.
Debbie Hemington is president of the BADT. She said: BADT is delighted that a national day has been suggested to celebrate the hard work of all dental therapists and dental hygienists in today’s workforce.
‘These highly professional team members make a huge contribution to patient care and often form the foundation to many advanced treatments.
‘Progress in dental teams can be slow, but dental therapists and hygienists have shown they have the staying power to see it through for the benefit of the patient.’
‘There is much to celebrate’
Miranda Steeples, president of the BSDHT, said: ‘BSDHT is delighted to be involved with the first national day for dental hygienists and dental therapists in the UK. Our professions have seen great changes in our daily lives over the past 20 years or so, and this is the perfect way to mark this.
‘We have realised the ambitions that we should all be permitted to work in general practice, we are GDC registered, we may own our own dental practice, treat patients via direct access, and witness the approval of the recommendations from the consultation for us to be able to utilise the exemptions legislation after 11 long years.
‘Our professions work in all sectors; education, research, the industry, and treating patients in multiple settings. We excel in empowering patients to maintain good oral health.
‘There is much to celebrate about being a dental hygienist or dental therapist right now, and today we do exactly that!’
‘Sense of unity’
President of the IDHA Yvonne Howell said: ‘IDHA is delighted to celebrate the inaugural National Dental Hygienist and Dental Therapist Day.
‘This is a great way to acknowledge the vital role dental hygienists and therapists play in healthcare. It raises awareness about oral health, promotes professional unity, and inspires both health care professionals and the public to prioritise their overall health.
‘Having a day dedicated to dental hygienists and therapists can foster a sense of unity and camaraderie within our profession. It provides an opportunity for dental hygienists and therapists to come together, share experiences and support one another.
‘Hopefully, one day in Ireland, the dental healthcare landscape will foster camaraderie among all dental professionals. This will lead to better use of our skills and acknowledge the pivotal role we play in oral and general health, which ultimately means better patient care and outcomes.’
Happy National Dental Hygienist and Dental Therapist Day!
With thanks to our sponsor, NSK.
Celebrating National Dental Hygienist and Dental Therapist Day:
- The evolution of dental hygienists and dental therapists
- Implementing a therapy-led model in practice
- Empowering dental hygienists and dental therapists.
- Introducing National Dental Hygienist and Dental Therapist Day.
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