BACD News: 14th Year of Inspiration in Cosmetic Dentistry

There’s no surprise as to why the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry Annual Conference has withstood the test of time.

With a three-day packed agenda, filled with the most prominent speakers in the sector presenting, delegates continued to be inspired to pursue cosmetic dentistry at this year’s event.

Held this year at the Hilton London Metropole Hotel, one of Europe’s largest conference hotels, the conference was titled “FAB: Function, Aesthetics, Biology.”

One of the highlights was the lecture given by Dr. Francesca Vailati. In her presentation, entitled “Additive Dentistry,” delegates were intrigued to find out more.

Dental wear, she discussed, is increasingly seen in the surgery because of the excessive levels of acid in the mouth thanks not only to diet, but also parafunctional habits such as bruxism, clenching and biting.

Vailati argued that rather than leaving these types of dentition to degrade further, proactive, non-invasive intervention is possible based on an increase in vertical dimension of occlusion.

Lydia Sharples, a newly qualified dentist, said: “I found it refreshing that she discussed her mistakes and how she learnt from them—it was real life dentistry. The minimally invasive ‘additive’ approach she uses is something we can all take back to practice.”

Other lectures proving popular included various hands-on sessions by Michael diFrisco, Drs. Jordi Manauta, Anna Salat and Amanda Seay, as well as Dr. Attiq Rahman and Phil Reddington, covering posterior composites, prep for e.max crowns and wax-ups for perfect provisionalisation, respectively.

“I have found the hands-on sessions particularly useful,” said Alice Duke, a dentist in her first year of qualification. “Dr. Seay was a very inspiring speaker, and having the opportunity for someone of such talent and experience to critique my clinical work was invaluable.”

In addition to the extensive education on offer, the event provided an ideal opportunity to network. The Friday night gala dinner was a highlight of the social programme, including a delicious meal and live band entertainment. Last but by no means least was the trade exhibition. Manufacturers and suppliers had their latest innovations to hand, demonstrating how they work and what benefits they offer delegates and their patients.

The BACD’s 14th annual conference certainly catered to the needs and interests of all delegates. This is just one way the BACD supports professional education and provides its members with opportunities to develop skills. To find out about other benefits available, visit the website today: www.bacd.com.