Polly Bhambra reflects on different moments from an eventful year in dentistry and her goals for the coming year.
As 2024 draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the dental profession’s pivotal moments this year. It has been a year of growth, resilience, and innovation, underscoring the immense dedication of dental professionals to improving patient care.
Looking back, it’s clear that dentistry has taken significant strides in clinical practice, patient engagement, and public health awareness. These serve as a testament to our profession’s ability to adapt and thrive, even in the face of challenges.
Raising the bar in clinical excellence
The emphasis on evidence-based care has remained at the forefront of dentistry this year. A key highlight has been the broader adoption of digital dentistry technologies, which continue to transform the way we diagnose and treat patients. From intraoral scanners improving treatment precision to 3D printing creating bespoke dental solutions, standards of care are being redefined.
At Treetops Dental Surgery, we have embraced these innovations, for both clinical advantages and the positive impact on patient care. Patients increasingly value efficiency and precision, and integrating these tools into our workflows has allowed us to meet and exceed their expectations.
Moreover, 2024 has seen a strengthened focus on preventive care. Campaigns such as Mouth Cancer Action Month have gained wider traction, bringing vital public health messages to the forefront. Raising awareness about early detection and regular dental visits has been a cornerstone of our work this year. It’s encouraging to see more patients taking these messages to heart, creating a more health-conscious population.
Professional challenges
The dental profession has also faced its share of challenges, particularly regarding workforce shortages and the increasing demand for services.
The introduction of flexible working initiatives and professional development opportunities for dental hygienists and dental therapists has been a positive step forward.
These efforts not only support career progression but also improve the retention of skilled professionals in the industry.
As a practice principal, I have seen first-hand how vital it is to foster a supportive and collaborative working environment. Investing in staff wellbeing, training, and development has been key to balancing provision of quality care with navigating the demands of a busy practice.
Key moments in 2024
The past year has been rich in milestones for the dental community. Notably, the 75th anniversary of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy (BSDHT) provided a unique opportunity to celebrate the contributions of dental hygienists and dental therapists. Events throughout the year shone a spotlight on the integral role these professionals play in promoting health and preventing disease.
Another significant moment was the publication of new guidelines on antibiotic stewardship in dentistry.
These highlight the profession’s commitment to tackling antimicrobial resistance, an issue of global importance. It is crucial that we continue to educate ourselves and our patients about the responsible use of antibiotics, ensuring they remain effective for future generations.
The Oral Health Conference (OHC), hosted by BSDHT, was another standout event. Bringing together professionals from across the country, it provided a platform for sharing knowledge, exploring new ideas, and fostering connections. Such gatherings remind us of the value of collaboration in driving the profession forward.
Trust and patient engagement
In 2024, the focus on trust between dental professionals and patients has been more important than ever.
Patients today are increasingly well-informed and seek transparency in their care.
From clear communication about treatment options to prioritising patient comfort, practices that place trust at the centre of their ethos are leading the way.
This year, we at Treetops Dental Surgery worked to strengthen our connection with the local community. By engaging in outreach initiatives, and offering complimentary oral health checks during national campaigns, we have sought to make dental care more accessible and relatable.
Looking ahead
While 2024 has been a year of significant progress, it also serves as a reminder of the work that remains to be done. Addressing inequalities in oral health access continues to be a priority, particularly for vulnerable populations.
As we move into 2025, I believe it is our collective responsibility to advocate for policies that bridge these gaps and ensure everyone can benefit from excellent dental care.
The increasing prominence of sustainable practices in dentistry is another area poised for growth. From reducing single-use plastics to adopting greener technologies, the industry has begun taking steps towards environmental responsibility. It’s exciting to think about the innovations we may soon see in this space.
The resilience, dedication, and ingenuity of dental professionals have not only advanced our field but have also reinforced our crucial role in supporting wider health outcomes. It has been a privilege to contribute to these efforts. I look forward to continuing to champion excellence, build trust, and embrace new opportunities to grow and inspire the next generation of dental professionals.
Here’s to another year of progress, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to patient care. Let us carry the momentum of 2024 into 2025, striving to make an even greater impact on the lives we touch every day.
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