TOGETHER FOR BETTER
Get behind the drive for oral health practitioners to be part of a GP-led plan for patients with chronic diseases
Waste not...
Plastic is just not going away. Discover how businesses are pushing for change
Taking proper note...
How to take good notes and the ramifications of getting it wrong
Sign up today for the National Congress Registrations still open
‘Thank
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Our first-ever national congress is nigh
THE INAUGURAL ADOHTA-DHAA Congress is rapidly approaching. The Congress organising committee has been working diligently to prepare for this premier oral health event that takes place from October 17-19 in Sydney. The Congress boasts a cuttingedge scientific program featuring leading expert presenters, a highly interactive trade exhibition where delegates can explore and experience new products firsthand, and a spectacular social program offering opportunities for networking and enjoyment.
I am especially eager to meet and hear from our international keynote presenter, Professor Nicola Innes, who will share her expertise on the Hall Technique and Silver Diamine Fluoride (SDF). She will also provide a preview of her extensive research findings on dental anxiety in children. Dr. Craig Erskine-Smith has kindly agreed to join us remotely from New Orleans to review the latest developments and evidence for a range of oral hygiene products. While these are just a couple of highlights from our comprehensive scientific program, I encourage you to visit our congress website to explore the full details.
The boards of DHAA and ADOHTA have made significant progress toward creating the proposed new Oral Health Association of Australia (OHAA), which will represent and serve dental hygienists, dental therapists and oral health therapists, collectively referred to as oral health practitioners (OHPs).
We are currently working with our legal counsel to prepare for a special resolution and special general meeting to advance this project. DHAA members should keep an eye out for the meeting notice and online voting papers; your prompt responses to the online ballot are crucial to ensuring we meet the legal requirements to establish the new association on schedule for the next financial year.
Our key advocacy campaign on chronic diseases and oral health is set to launch this month. With the support of our advocacy consultant, we have prepared a campaign collateral package that is available for colleagues who wish to join us in advocating for our inclusion in the Medicare Allied Health Chronic Disease Scheme. The strong evidence supporting our campaign is detailed in the feature article of this issue.
A big thank you to the many members who responded to our call for entries to the DHAA Future Leaders Program. It was a challenging task to review the large number of applications and select the successful candidates for the limited number of places. I look forward to meeting them when the program commences in November.
I would also like to welcome two new state committee chairs: Michelle Wright, who has recently stepped up from the deputy role to WA Chair, and Katy Smith, who has kindly accepted the role of NT Chair. Both have been working behind the scenes for some time, and I am pleased to see them recognised through their official appointments.
On a personal note, I have moved on from CQUniversity and have begun a new role as Consultant Oral Health Therapist for Queensland Health in the Office of the Chief Dental Officer, I will be working on matters related to oral health therapy. I am excited about this new chapter and look forward to the opportunities it presents to shape oral health in our country.
Doctor Carol Tran DHAA President
Key Contacts
CEO Bill Suen
PRESIDENT Carol Tran
06 Don’t miss Congress
All the latest plans for the inaugural National Congress.
08 Natural therapy
Discover the natural way to treat chronic periodontitis.
16 Value-based healthcare
The advantages and the benefits.
22 Get your online CPD fix
Enjoy learning from home.
26 Get a growth mindset
The key to career success.
COVER STORY
28 Together for better
The DHAA campaign for oral health practitioners to be a part of chronic disease prevention.
32 Prevention or cure?
Reframing dental care towards preventative care.
36 Waste not...
Learn how to recycle your rubbish more efficiently.
38 Keep on smiling
The campaign trail for sustainability and our future.
42 Take proper note
Discover the benefits of proper note taking.
46 State of the Nation
Our regular round-up of state happenings.
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Don’t miss out on the oral health congress
Shida Taheri
takes a
look at what’s in store at the first ever joint ADOHTA – DHAA National Congress in October
We are excited to invite you to this year’s Joint ADOHTA DHAA National Congress in Sydney between 17 -19 October. This is a CPD event you don’t want to miss! Information you will receive will help you advance your oral health knowledge to benefit you as a clinician but also your patients.
As with all great programs, there is always an amazing trade expo to visit. A wide range of exhibitors will be on hand to help you stay ahead of the everevolving products and services available.
Platinum sponsor, Erskine Dental / Piksters will be present to share their latest products, knowledge and samples. Their wide range of products have the potential to enhance your patient care. Similarly, our bronze sponsor, Colgate, will be showcasing new products that focus on improving oral health.
Beyond our key sponsors, the conference will feature a diverse range of exhibitors, including Curaprox, Ark
Health, BioMin, BMS, Bupa, Dentalife, Dentavision, DPL, Duerr Dental, EMS, Haleon, Hu Friedy, Ivoclar, MIPS, Neomorph, NSK, NSW Health, Ozdent,
One Dental, Tepe, and many others. This is a unique opportunity to explore the latest products and services that are shaping the future of dental care.
Grasp the chance to:
n Explore new products
Engage with exhibitors to learn about the latest tools and materials designed to improve patient outcomes. Many exhibitors will offer demonstrations and samples allowing you to see firsthand how these products can be integrated into your practice.
n Expand your knowledge
Attend sessions that focus on the latest research, best practices, and innovative techniques. These insights can be directly applied to your day-to-day work, helping you provide the best possible care.
A word from Erskine Dental, our platinum sponsor
Erskine Dental is a leading Australian dental distributor founded by Dr Craig Erskine-Smith in 1992.
We have over 30 years of experience in providing dental professionals quality dental solutions to support them in delivering quality patient care.
We have a commitment to their customers to continue to provide quality and reliable services through our Australian wide distribution network.
We offer an extensive selection of innovative dental solutions in oral care brands including Piksters, LM,
n Network with peers
Connect with fellow dental professionals, share experiences, and discuss challenges and solutions in the field. This is an excellent opportunity to build relationships that can support your professional development.
We hope you’ll take advantage of this opportunity to expand your knowledge, explore new innovations, and connect
Centrix, NSK and much more.
Come visit us at our stand at the DHAA/ADOHTA Congress to see the latest new product developments:
• Oral care kits for kids and adults
• LM Scalers, probes and explorers
• and much more!
“A wide range of exhibitors will be on hand to help you stay ahead of the everevolving products and services available”
with leaders in the dental field. The insights you gain here will help you continue to provide outstanding care to your patients. n
Natural therapies for the treatment of chronic periodontitis
There are a number of natural therapies that are worthy of consideration, here’s why
By Ramesh Balasubramaniam OAM Associate Professor
Discipline Lead in Oral Medicine at UWA Dental School, The University of Western Australia
Periodontitis is one of the most prevalent infectious diseases in humans. This group of conditions present as an inflammatory disease affecting tooth-supporting tissues specifically the gingiva, cementum, periodontal ligament, and alveolar bone. The main pathogens that cause periodontal disease are found to co-exist in dental plaque and include Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, and Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans. Typically, there are underlying risk factors that facilitate pathogenesis, and these include aging, smoking, occlusal trauma, nutritional deficiency, stress, genetic factors, calculus, defective restorations, hyposalivation and dental crowding. Ultimately, for periodontal disease to develop and progress, the pathogens must overrun the host immune defence. As this disease evolves from early periodontitis in young adults and becomes chronic, its inflammation spreads episodically deep into the gingival tissues resulting in tissue attachment loss and alveolar bone destruction clinically presenting and tooth mobility. Fundamentally,
untreated chronic periodontitis leads to tooth loss and has implications on general health beyond the oral cavity. It is postulated that persistent inflammation and infection related to chronic periodontitis increases the risk for cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, obstructive sleep apnoea, low birth weight and COVID-19 complications.
Current treatment for chronic periodontitis is primarily based on removal of pathogenic subgingival biofilm which involves improving individual oral hygiene practices, scaling and root planning to improve
“Untreated chronic periodontitis leads to tooth loss and has implications on general health beyond the oral cavity”
the disease or at least prevent disease progression and antibiotic therapy when necessary. In more severe cases of chronic periodontitis, periodontal surgery may be considered. As education and awareness regarding periodontitis has improved in recent times, there is now a greater desire in the community to maintain periodontal health and retain one’s natural dentition. However, in recent years there appears to be a reluctance in the community especially in the post-covid era to consider pharmacotherapeutics, rather there has been a considerable shift towards safer “natural therapies”.
A systematic review by Chatzopoulos et al. (2022) which included 22 studies, evaluated the clinical effectiveness of herbal dental mouthwash, dentifrice, or gel for periodontitis compared to conventional products or placebo. This review found that herbal products used alongside scaling and root planning or supragingival debridement resulted in better clinical outcomes than placebo and had at least comparable or superior outcomes to chlorhexidine and other conventional products. It was postulated that the potential benefits of the ingredients in herbal products is likely related to their additional anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and their minimal side effect profile. Table 1 outlines the herbal dental mouthwashes, dentifrices and gels that were included in this systematic review. Another recent systematic review by Woelber et al. (2023) assessed the effects of dietary and nutraceutical interventions as adjuncts to nonsurgical periodontal therapy. Based on the analysis of 14 studies that met the inclusion criteria, a significant positive effect on periodontal parameters, including pocket probing depths and bleeding on probing was noted for vitamin E, chicory extract, juice powder, green tea, and oolong tea. The authors concluded that adjunctive use of various supplements and teas could benefit clinical outcomes of periodontal disease. Zhang et al. (2022) published a systematic review and meta-analysis assessing the anti-inflammatory efficacy of curcumin (turmeric extract) as an adjunct to non-surgical periodontal treatment. The results revealed that curcumin as an adjunct to non-surgical
Therapy Type Adjunctive
Mouthwash
1% Matricaria chamomilla
Althaea officinalis
Salix alba
Malva silvestris extracts
Triphala (Emblica officinalis, Terminalia bellerica, Terminalia chebula)
Green tea (0.05% or 5%)
Hydroalcoholic extract of Scrophularia striata
Lemongrass oil mouthwash
Red ginseng mouthwash
Oral irrigator and herbal mouthwash (salvia officinalis, metha piperita, menthol, matricaria chamomilla, commiphora myrrha, carvum carvi, eugenia caryophyllus, echinacea purpurea)
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antiseptic
n Antibacterial
n Anti-inflammatory
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antibacterial
n Antioxidant
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antibacterial
n Antioxidant
n Antioxidant
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antibacterial
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antibacterial
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antibacterial
n Anti-inflammatory
effectiveness of a variety of plantbased and herbal therapies as adjunctive therapies to support existing clinical treatments for chronic periodontitis. Given the hesitancy in the community towards using currently available pharmacotherapeutics for chronic periodontitis, dental practitioners are encouraged to familiarise themselves with various natural therapies. While debridement of subgingival biofilm and calculus remains the cornerstone for the treatment of chronic periodontitis, complementary adjunctive natural therapies appear to further enhance the effectiveness of subgingival debridement and is considered a safer option. n
References:
Subgingival irrigation with solution
Dentifrice
Saussurea lappa extracts
4% Ocimum sanctum
Punica granatum Linn., Piper nigrum Linn., detoxified copper sulfate
Green tea
Herbal toothpaste Acess® (Menthe ardencies leaf oil, Chamomile ricotta flower extract, Criteria triandra root extract, Commiphora myrrha resin extract)
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antioxidant
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antibacterial
n Antioxidant
n Antibacterial
n Antioxidant
n Anti-inflammatory
n Antibacterial
n Antioxidant
Table 1: Clinically effective herbal dental adjunctive therapies and their properties used alongside scaling and root planning or supragingival debridement for the treatment of periodontitis.
periodontal treatment significantly reduced the gingival index for up to six weeks and the sulcus bleeding index for up to 12 weeks compared to non-surgical periodontal treatment alone. This study highlighted curcumin as a promising natural anti-inflammatory that may be utilised as an adjunctive treatment for periodontal disease. Similarly, a laboratory study published early this year by Idrees et al. (2024) on PerioGold® Oral Gel, a product developed in Australia
containing the natural ingredients of curcumin (microencapsulated to improved local absorption), aloe vera and elderberry found this gel to have a significant antioxidative effect on cells lines mimicking oral mucositis. The authors reported that PerioGold® Oral Gel exhibits clinical potential against oxidative stress resulting in free radicals damaging cells and tissues.
There has been widespread research to showcase the
• Caton JG, Armitage G, Berglundh T, et al. A new classification scheme for periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions - Introduction and key changes from the 1999 classification. J Clin Periodontol. 2018 Jun;45 Suppl 20:S1-S8.
• Chatzopoulos GS, Karakostas P, Kavakloglou S, et al. Clinical Effectiveness of Herbal Oral Care Products in Periodontitis Patients: A Systematic Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2022 Aug 15;19(16):10061.
• Herrera D, Sanz M, Shapira L, et al. Association between periodontal diseases and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and respiratory diseases: Consensus report of the Joint Workshop by the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) and the European arm of the World Organization of Family Doctors (WONCA Europe). J Clin Periodontol. 2023 Jun;50(6):819-841.
• Idrees M, Kujan O. A Curcumin-Based Oral Gel Has Potential Protective Efficacy against Oral Mucositis: In Vitro Study. Journal of Personalized Medicine. 2024; 14(1):1.
• Mendes SNC, Esteves CM, Mendes JAV, et al. Systemic Antibiotics and Chlorhexidine Associated with Periodontal Therapy: Microbiological Effect on Intraoral Surfaces and Saliva. Antibiotics (Basel). 2023 May 4;12(5):847.
• Woelber JP, Reichenbächer K, Groß T, et al. Dietary and Nutraceutical Interventions as an Adjunct to Non-Surgical Periodontal Therapy-A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2023 Mar 22;15(6):1538.
• Zhang X, Hu Z, Zhu X, et al. Treating periodontitis-a systematic review and meta-analysis comparing ultrasonic and manual subgingival scaling at different probing pocket depths. BMC Oral Health. 2020 Jun 25;20(1):176.
• Zhang Y, Huang L, Zhang J, et al. Anti-Inflammatory Efficacy of Curcumin as an Adjunct to Non-Surgical Periodontal Treatment: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Front Pharmacol. 2022 Jan 24;13:808460.
Declaration of Conflicts of Interest:
A/Prof Ramesh Balasubramaniam OAM was involved in the formulation of PerioGold Oral Gel (www.periogold.com) and receives royalties from the sales of this product.
Behind the scenes
A round up of the great work being done by our volunteers to better our profession
Bill Suen DHAA CEO
AS THE PEAK professional association representing oral health practitioners, it is our duty to support and improve the profession whenever we can.
All DHAA members have access to a range of CPD, communication updates as well as ongoing advice and support. These are accessible via the DHAA member portal and through regular emails.
In addition, there are a host of activities undertaken by the board, various committees and staff that are not apparent to the membership. So, I would like to take this opportunity to run through some of them so that our Bulletin readers are aware of the exciting activities in the pipeline.
Aged care facility oral health practice guidelines
The Aged Care Special Interest Group (SIG) is currently developing a set of practice guidelines to support members in planning and delivering an onsite oral health service to residential aged care facilities.
The guidelines draw on the expertise of the members of the SIG as well as referencing relevant best practice standards available. We will be workshopping the draft guidelines at the forthcoming National Congress on Thursday 17 October.
Please join us at the Congress so you can input into shaping this important piece of work for our profession as well as for the RACF community. Find out more about Congress here
Train the trainer in oral health promotion
The Oral Health Promotion and Public Health Committee has been providing consumer oral health promotion sessions to community groups around the World Oral Health Day in March and Dental Health Week in August each year.
“There are a host of activities undertaken by the board, various committees and staff that are not apparent to the membership”
We reach out to many refugee and special needs communities and the responses have been overwhelming. As such, we are struggling to cope with the increasing requests from these groups to run sessions due to limited availability of volunteers.
The Committee is now developing an online training program to train non-dental practitioners to deliver oral health instructions based on the current consensus oral health messages.
The target audience for the training program includes other non-dental health professionals, aboriginal and community health workers, school teachers and certified dental
assistants. The intention is to build capacity in the community to spread the consensus oral health messages across the country beyond the dental fraternity to maximise the reach.
Rural and remote practice
The Rural and Remote Special Interest Group are working to develop a plan to support members in rural and remote practice.
We have recently signed up the corporate membership of Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health (SARRAH), which will allow our rural members to access a range of support services and education. We are also in the process of developing an online training package to provide essential information about mobile, rural and remote oral health therapy in order to upskill oral health practitioners to deliver care in rural and remote settings.
Work is underway with a number of potential partners to develop the business plan.
Future Leaders Program
This Program was launched in July and we have received overwhelming interest from members who wish to participate.
The intention is to build leadership and mentoring capacity which is sustainable and perpetual for our profession. Participant selection has now completed, and work has commenced with the consultants to develop the program specially tailored for the selected group which will commence in November this year.
Chronic disease and oral health advocacy campaign
The current advocacy priority is for oral health practitioners to be recognised as allied health practitioners under Medicare so that we can access chronic disease management allied health item codes and the GP Workforce Incentive Scheme.
If successful it will open our access to the GP-led chronic disease management care plan funded by Medicare, or be engaged by a GP clinic to provided oral health assessment and education. This is a great step to put the mouth back to the body within the current system. Considerable effort has been put in to create the campaign plan and associated collaterals. These are preceded by our Federal Budget Submission and a series of media releases earlier in the year.
Similarly to our highly successful Bad Mouth campaign that led us to Medicare Provider Numbers, we are calling on the membership to be involved in meeting with your local MPs to discuss our proposal.
For your perusal, the feature article in this issue provides the strong evidence and sound logics to our recommendations.
Please contact me by email at bill.suen@dhaa.info or call me on 0412 831 669 if you wish to discuss or be involved in any of these activities. They are all exciting and worthwhile investments of our time and efforts to advance our profession. n
MEMBER REFLECTIONS
Congratulations to Ashley Bainbridge at CQU, the DHAA Indigenous Study Grant recipient for 2024. Below is her reflection on her oral health journey:
“I have been an active student member of DHAA since 2022.
During which time, I have participated in several CPD events organised by the DHAA. These events have been highly educational and often offered at no cost, or for a nominal fee, to student members; which is greatly appreciated.
The DHAA also ensures that members are well-informed about industry developments and forthcoming changes through regular updates with catch-up newsletters. I am committed to continuing my membership with this association upon my graduation.
As a third-year oral health student in my final year and currently on clinical placement, transitioning from theory-based learning to hands-on experience has been both challenging and rewarding. This opportunity has allowed me to integrate theoretical knowledge with practical skills, enabling me to provide high-quality care to patients.
I have been fortunate enough to focus exclusively on my studies without the need to work during the terms, dedicating my spare time to mastering the course material. This dedication is reflected in my academic performance, and I am on track to graduate with a Bachelor of Oral Health with distinction.
Upon graduation, my goal is to work in the public sector to give back to underprivileged communities. I have always aspired to serve in rural and remote regions, using my skills to make a positive impact. Additionally, I am committed to volunteering with organisations such as Filling the Gap and Tooth Mob, as well as extending my efforts to international communities in countries like Papua New Guinea and Cambodia once I have gained the necessary experience
I am deeply appreciative and grateful to the DHAA for awarding me a grant for the second time during my studies at CQU. The first grant significantly aided me in acquiring the essential equipment required for simulation and clinical practice. This second grant will help cover the costs associated with my application for registration with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) and fulfilling other necessary requirements to become a registered oral health therapist. n
RURAL AND REMOTE
Country practise
If you have a passion for working in rural and remote areas, we want to hear from you
by Lyn Carman
Are you one of the 310 rural and remote DHAA members? Do you have a story to share, an experience, or a day in your world? Would you like to attend the SARRAH Conference in Mildura, Vic?
We currently have 310 rural and remote DHAA members living in postcodes that are reflected in MMM 3-7 areas of Australia, with approximately 45 of you in remote and very remote areas—and we want to hear from you!
The Rural and Remote Oral Health Special Interest Group (SIG) of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia (DHAA) has a vision to play a pivotal role in supporting oral health practitioners working in, or who have an interest in,
rural, remote, and regional areas. The SIG is dedicated to working with, listening to, and empowering clinicians who are serving their community or have an interest in this area.
Healthy mouths, healthy lives
Australia’s National Oral Health Plan 2015 – 2024 has a number of highlights, including the fact that priority populations have higher rates and risks of poor oral health, they face greater challenges in accessing oral health care, and require additional, targeted strategies to overcome these inequalities. Priority Population 3 is people living in regional and remote areas. You can download the full plan here.
The SIG’s primary focus
• Enhancing the capabilities of dental professionals in rural and remote areas
• Support clinicians to decide to choose rural and remote opportunities.
• Bringing specific rural and remote advocacy opportunities to the DHAA Board
• Collaborating with other health professionals in rural and remote areas to enhance a multidisciplinary approach to patient care and highlight oral health
• Collaborate, access resources and raise the profile of rural and remote oral health as a Corporate Member of SARRAH
“To target our focus and serve our members and the rural community best, we need to hear your voice”
To target our focus and serve our members and the rural community best, we need to hear your voice, listen to your challenges, and understand the real benefits of living and working in rural and remote areas. Your insights will help us shape strategies and advocate more effectively for the unique needs of these communities.
The DHAA is excited to announce its new status as a corporate member of SARRAH (Services for Australian Rural and Remote Allied Health), an organisation dedicated to improving health outcomes for rural and remote communities through the support of allied health professionals. This partnership opens exciting opportunities for our members, offering access to a wealth of resources, networking opportunities, and advocacy efforts that are specifically tailored to the unique challenges faced by practitioners in
these areas. By becoming a member of SARRAH*, you can join a community that is committed to enhancing rural and remote healthcare, gaining valuable insights, and contributing to initiatives that make a real difference in the lives of Australians living in these regions.
Celebrate this recognition
To celebrate our new status as a corporate member of SARRAH, we have two registrations available to the 15th National Rural and Remote Allied Health Conference – Going the Distance - Thriving in Rural and Remote Communities ($980 value)
The conference takes place in Mildura, Victoria from 21-23 October 2024.
If you are interested in attending the conference we would like to hear from you. Please contact Bill Suen (bill.suen@ dhaa.info) or Lyn Carman (lyn.carman@ dhaa.info) for access to SARRAH membership.
The plan moving forward
Every edition of the DHAA Bulletin will now feature a specific Rural and Remote SIG entry and an inspiring story from one of our members. News of events, successes, and challenges in rural oral health practice will be highlighted to
raise awareness and inspire solutions for improving access to care outside of metropolitan areas.
Your Voice Matters: Your stories are not just anecdotes; they are powerful tools that can influence change. By sharing your experiences, you contribute to a greater understanding of what it truly means to practice in rural and remote settings. This knowledge is essential for developing practical solutions, advocating for better resources, helping others to decide to go rural and ensuring that the unique needs of these communities are met.
The Rural and Remote Oral Health SIG is not just about providing support—it’s about creating a community of likeminded professionals who are passionate about making a difference. We are here to amplify your voice, advocate for your needs, and celebrate your successes.
Join the conversation
On the third Wednesday of each month we have a scheduled Rural & Remote SIG ZOOM meeting to provide a space to come together and discuss matters related to rural and remote oral health practice. This is an informal meeting, a safe space to share challenges, meet colleagues, highlight the benefits and help us understand how the DHAA can support you best.
We encourage all our rural and remote members to get involved, share their stories, participate in this ongoing conversation and join the SIG.
Together, we can drive meaningful change and ensure that every Australian, regardless of where they live, has access to high-quality oral health care.
Discover how to get involved, contact Lyn Carman, DHAA Rural and Remote SIG Chair ( lyn.carman@dhaa.info). n
*You must be available to attend on these dates. This is for registration only and does not include transport, meals and accommodation.
You will be required to write a 600word article on your attendance, to be published in the DHAA Bulletin.
Celebrating oral health
A look back at a very positive 2024 for the DHAA Oral Health Promotion and Public Health Committee
by Wan Ying Chia
This year, the DHAA Oral Health Promotion and Public Health Committee (OHPPHC) has once again made strides in raising awareness about oral health through a series of impactful presentations.
Two initiatives, which took place during World Oral Health Day in March and Dental Health Week in August 2024, successfully engaged communities across several states and reached nearly 600 individuals of all ages.
The project spanned several states, including Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia, and Queensland. We were thrilled to see active participation from both students and oral health practitioners who contributed their time and expertise to the success of these initiatives.
World Oral Health Day
On 20 March 2024, World Oral Health Day was celebrated with the compelling message, “A Happy Mouth is a Happy Body.” The theme emphasised the vital connection between oral health and overall well-being, with activities and educational sessions aimed to reinforce the importance of maintaining good oral hygiene as a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle.
Dental Health Week
During Dental Health Week in August, we aligned our efforts with the Australian Dental Association’s campaign theme: “#Let’s talk about gums.”
Sessions were designed to raise awareness about the crucial role of gum
“Through these events, we managed to engage with nearly 600 individuals, ranging from toddlers to the elderly”
health in preventing oral diseases and maintaining overall oral hygiene.
One of the highlights of efforts this year was a session delivered in Mandarin Chinese, which broadened our reach and inclusivity, catering to non-English speaking communities and ensuring that our message about gum health was accessible to a diverse audience.
Impact and reach
Through these events, we managed to engage with nearly 600 individuals, ranging from toddlers to the elderly. This broad demographic participation underscores the importance of our outreach efforts in promoting good oral health practices across all age groups.
Call for future participation
Looking ahead, we invite oral health practitioners from across Australia to join us in our future projects for World Oral Health Day and Dental Health Week.
If you are based in a state that was not involved this year, the absence was primarily due to a lack of local leaders and volunteers. We encourage any
interested individuals or groups to step forward and take on leadership roles in their respective states. Your involvement can make a significant difference in expanding our reach and impact.
The OHPPHC are excited about the possibilities for next year and look forward to collaborating with more passionate professionals to advance our mission of promoting oral health throughout Australia. Together, we can make a positive difference in the lives of many and continue to advocate for the importance of maintaining a healthy mouth for a healthier body.
For further information and expression of interest please email contact@dhaa.info n
What is valuebased healthcare?
Tabitha Acret takes a look at the advantages of practising a Value-Based Healthcare model and the benefits of adopting it into your routine
Value-based healthcare (VBHC) is a model that aims to optimise patient outcomes relative to the costs of healthcare delivery. This approach focuses on delivering the best possible health outcomes, including patient satisfaction and quality of life, rather than the volume of services provided.
How do we apply valuebased health care to oral health care products?
When applied to recommending oral hygiene products, VBHC encourages clinicians to consider not just the cost of the products but their overall value in enhancing patients’ oral health, improving outcomes, and reducing the need for more intensive and costly interventions.
The value-based health care framework
In the VBHC model, value is defined as the health outcomes achieved per dollar spent. It shifts the focus from providing services and products in high volumes to ensuring that these services and products deliver the best possible outcomes for patients. For oral healthcare, this means that recommendations for oral hygiene products should be based on their ability to effectively prevent or manage oral health conditions, thus improving overall health and reducing the long-term need for more invasive treatments.
Key components of VBHC in oral health
1. Patient-centred care
VBHC emphasises individualised care. When recommending oral hygiene products, it’s important to consider each patient’s specific needs, preferences, and risk factors.
2. Evidence-based recommendations
Product recommendations should be grounded in scientific evidence that demonstrates their effectiveness in improving oral health outcomes.
3. Cost-effectiveness
VBHC requires consideration of the cost of oral hygiene products relative to their benefits. For example, while an electric toothbrush may have a higher upfront cost than a manual one, it could be more cost-effective in the long term if it leads to better oral health outcomes, such as reduced plaque and better oral health outcomes, thereby preventing the need for costly dental procedures.
“By focusing on patientcentered care, dental professionals can help patients achieve better oral health outcomes while controlling overall healthcare costs”
4. Prevention-oriented approach
Preventive care is a cornerstone of VBHC. Recommending products that support preventive care, such as interdental cleaning aids, and fissure sealants, can lead to better health outcomes by reducing the occurrence of decay and periodontal disease. Preventive strategies are particularly valuable because they can help avoid the higher costs and complications associated with treating advanced dental diseases.
Applying VBHC principles to product recommendations
To integrate VBHC into product recommendations, dental professionals should follow a systematic approach:
1. Assess patient needs and risks
The first step is to evaluate the patient’s oral health status, medical history, lifestyle, and risk factors. This assessment guides the selection of appropriate products. For example, a patient at high risk for caries may benefit from a high-fluoride toothpaste while someone with periodontal disease may need specialised brushes or interdental brushes.
2. Select products with proven effectiveness
Choose products that are supported by clinical evidence. Research shows that interdental brushes remove more biofilm than floss and are a better option for patients with periodontal disease
3. Educate patients on proper use
To maximise the value of the recommended products, patients need to understand how to use them correctly. For instance, explaining the correct brushing technique with an electric toothbrush can enhance the effectiveness of these products.
4. Monitor and adjust
Follow-up with patients to assess their oral health outcomes and adjust recommendations as needed. If a product isn’t delivering the expected results or if the patient finds it difficult to use, alternative products or techniques should be considered.
Challenges and considerations
While VBHC offers a promising approach to oral health care, there are challenges to its implementation.
One significant challenge is ensuring access to high-quality oral hygiene products, particularly for underserved populations. The cost of products like electric toothbrushes or prescriptionstrength fluoride toothpaste can be a
barrier for some patients, potentially limiting their access to the most effective tools for maintaining oral health. Dental professionals need to be mindful of these barriers and consider recommending effective, lower-cost alternatives when necessary.
Moreover, the success of VBHC in oral health depends on patient adherence. Even the most effective product will fail to deliver value if the patient does not use it consistently or correctly. Therefore, patient education and engagement are critical components of VBHC.
By focusing on patient-centered care, evidence-based practices, cost-effectiveness, and preventive care, dental professionals can help patients achieve better oral health outcomes while controlling overall healthcare costs.
As the healthcare industry continues to shift toward a value-based model, the integration of these principles into oral health care will be essential for improving patient care and reducing the long-term burden of dental disease. n
References
1. Porter, M. E., & Lee, T. H. (2013). The strategy that will fix health care. *Harvard Business Review*. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/2013/10/the-strategythat-will-fix-health-care
2. Beaton, L., & Lang, W. P. (2009). Evidence-based recommendations for the use of fluoride. *Dental Clinics of North America, 53*(1), 31-45.
3. Watt, R. G., & Sheiham, A. (2012). Integrating the common risk factor approach into a social determinants framework. *Community Dentistry and Oral Epidemiology, 40*(4), 289-296.
4. Innes, N. P. T., Schwendicke, F., & Lamont, T. (2016). How do we create, improve and implement evidencebased caries prevention in practice? *BDJ, 221*, 417-423.
These references provide a foundation for understanding how VBHC can be applied to oral health, particularly in recommending effective and cost-efficient oral hygiene products to patients.
the author Tabitha Acret is a dental hygienist working in private specialist periodontal practice and a part time academic at the University of Sydney. She is currently studying a clinical masters at the Eastman in London and has a passion for preventative dentistry and motivating patients . Tabitha is also the founder and owner of www. leveluppreventativecare.com.au a CPD company focused on expanding the knowledge and scope of DH, DT and OHTs.
About
DHAA... Ask
Your opportunity to ask the questions, check the rules and share your knowledge
Dear DHAA... Where do I lodge my CPD hours/ certs? Is it required to keep certificates stored as evidence of CPD hours completed?
You can head to our member portal and add any CPD you like to your personal CPD log.
You will see there are two areas on the ‘My CPD’ page - the top section is for members to self record any CPD completed, and you can use the plus button to add CPD and the pencil icon allows you to edit entries – see screenshot below.
The bottom section is your DHAA event attendance record which displays CPD earned by attending any DHAA events in this current
CPD cycle. This bottom section is not editable by members as it links to our DHAA website database.
Dear DHAA... Is there any way that I can view past webinars that I’ve registered for, on the DHAA website?
Most of our webinars are recorded and stored on the DHAA website for members to view on demand.
You will need to log in via the member portal, go to ‘Events & CPD’ and check the webinar library. If a webinar is not there, it might be that it is too early (uploads usually take a couple of weeks) or that the presenter did not give permission for the webinars to be recorded.
There is no need to be registered to view the webinar library, but it is only accessible by DHAA members.
Dear DHAA... I am in the process of starting up my own mobile dental business. Can you help me understand what insurances I need?
Depending on your business structure (e.g. if you are setting up a company which is regarded as a separate legal entity that employs yourself, or just offering the service as a practitioner), you will need different insurances.
Please contact BMS (the DHAA insurance partner) as they can provide a full range of public liability insurance for individuals as an extension to your PI insurance, or other business insurance for companies as needed.
It is best to talk to them and ask for their advice. You can contact BMS directly on dhaa@bmsgroup.com or call 1800 940 762.
You should also talk to your accountant (and/or lawyer) to get their professional advice as well.
Dear DHAA... My dentist was offering to provide administration of NO2 and then leave me to do the
dental treatment. Dentist would return to remove patient from sedation. As an OHT can I treat a patient under conscious sedation or regional anaesthesia?
You can read the DHAA position regarding this topic on the DHAA website. Implications for dental hygienists, dental therapists and oral health therapists are as follows;
1. Dental hygienists, oral health therapists and dental therapists may treat patients under regional anaesthesia (RA), conscious sedation (CS) or general anaesthetic (GA) provided that the treatment or procedure undertaken is within their scope of practice.
2. Dental hygienists, oral health therapists and dental therapists must be properly trained, proven competent and seen to be keeping up-to-date with the specific skills required to treat and manage patients under RA, CS or GA.
3. The RA, CS or GA is administered by a qualified practitioner with the appropriate accreditation
or endorsement, and that person is taking full responsibility of the patient and is present at all time when the DH, DT or OHT is working on the patient.
You must not be put in position to monitor or determine a patient’s anaesthetic/sedation status at any time. This is the responsibility of the authorised person administering the agents. Leaving the patient unattended without ongoing monitoring by the authorised administrator is definitely not acceptable. Most importantly, you must not proceed if you have any doubts about the safety and appropriate monitoring of the patient.
Dear DHAA... I am writing to seek clarification regarding the scope of practice for oral health therapists in relation to periodontal laser therapy. I have enrolled in upcoming courses focused
on the use of lasers in hygiene treatment, and the presenters are qualified professionals trained in the USA and New Zealand. I would like to understand if this practice falls within our professional scope. No laser course is a scope extension course, meaning that after doing a laser course, existing procedures within one’s scope can be undertaken with a laser, e.g. perio debridement can be done using a laser rather than an ultrasonic scaler,
cavity prep with a laser rather than a high speed drill, desensitising with a laser rather than by topically applying a desensitising gel, etc. But, these trainings DO NOT extend a practitioner’s scope of practice.
OHTs in the practice can use a diode laser (once they have done the training and where needed by state law gained a laser use licence) for procedures like photobiomodulation/ low level laser therapy to desensitise teeth and
reduce post adjustment pain and accelerate tooth movement, or to disinfect periodontal pockets after debridement.
All surgical procedures, such as exposing unerupted teeth and reshaping gingival tissue, need to be done by the orthodontist themselves or be referred out.
In terms of laser training within your existing scope, doing online training only, even with a “hands on” component, is not enough to demonstrate competence. You would need to do the inperson hands-on under appropriate supervision before you could consider yourself competent.
Dear DHAA... I am an OHT and looking to expand our services to include aged care facilities because I believe that providing quality oral health care to elderly residents is essential for their overall well-being. Any advice or recommendations you can provide would be greatly appreciated.
The DHAA has an aged care chapter and aged care education program that prepares oral health practitioners to provide service to residential aged care facilities (RACF). You can find out more here. The education program and a number of recorded CPD meetings go into detail of >>
Lasers are a no-no unless they’re within your scope of practice
Follow the guidelines about sedated patients
how to connect with and market to RACFs.
Moving forward, I strongly recommend becoming a chapter member and enrolling in the education program to equip yourself and connect to likeminded and experienced professionals.
Dear DHAA... I’m a dental hygienist and I employ a dentist part time with her own provider number. For DVA patients, can I do the clean and claim DVA under her provider number, or does she have to do the clean herself?
The DVA rules recognise hygienists as service provider but they’re yet to recognise our provider numbers, so
Aiming to provide quality oral health care to elderly residents
it is ok for you to provide the service (within your scope) and claim under your contracted/employed dentist’s provider number. The following is an excerpt from DVA website but please read it in full here
Dental therapists, dental hygienists and oral health
therapists can provide dental services to members of the veteran community if they are:
• Registered with the Dental Board of Australia and comply with approved scope of practice registration standards
• Covered by either their employer’s indemnity insurance or maintain their own insurance as mandated by the Dental Board of Australia
• Qualified and competent to provide the service.
Claims for these services are to be submitted by the dentist or dental specialist on their behalf at the current DVA dental fee.
Dear DHAA... I am a dental hygienist operating in NSW, and requested some samples of Kenalog in Orabase paste through a promotion in a dental magazine email I received. I always recommend this product to my patients and I was interested in some samples for my surgery. I was a bit annoyed when my request was refused
as they say OHTs and DTs are eligible, however, they won’t issue samples to dental hygienists. Is such discrimination allowed? Please note that Kenalog in Orabase is an S3 (pharmacist-only) item containing a corticosteroid triamcinolone.
There are legislative variations across different states and territories in whether a DH, DT or OHT can process and administer a number of scheduled items including topical corticosteriods. NSW had made special exemptions for DTs and OHTs to process and administer triamcinolone in the treatment of dental pulp and this would be the reason why the company would provide Kenalog in Orabase to DTs and OHTs but not DHs. It is definitely illegal for them to provide samples to non-authorised persons.
In most cases patients should be advised to go to their pharmacies to purchase this pharmacistonly product and seek advice from a pharmacist. This referral pathway is no different to you referring patients to a GP or dentist for the supply of a prescriptiononly antibiotic that is not approved for you to process and administer, on your professional recommendation. n
If you have a question to ask then please email it to bulletin@dhaa.info
EARTH LOVIN’ ORAL CARE
LAUNCHED IN THE AUSTRALIAN market only two years ago, GO2 Dentagenie, through its innovative EARTH LOVIN’ oral care range, is improving and simplifying the daily oral care routine for everyone.
We aim to get more people improving their oral health by introducing the GO2 range. Increasing the participation rate benefits the oral health of users and improves their overall systemic well-being.
GO2 products are easy to purchase and use by dental professionals, with most major retailers throughout Australia offering a wide range of GO2 products to meet consumer demand at a reasonable price.
GO2 products are developed to offer unique solutions to meet the consumers’ needs. The functionality of the products offers options to customers who had very little variety to choose from in the past. Oral care is not a one-size-fits-all proposition. Pack design and feel are powerfully bright with clear, simple messaging that’s easy to identify with large font and clearly shows the contents and their purpose.
”We aim to get more people improving their oral health by introducing the GO2 range. Increasing the participation rate benefits the oral health of users and improves their overall systemic well-being”
The GO2 Dentagenie range includes:
• Minty-flavoured flossers (Fine, Double, Smooth, Molar, Silver and Braces Flosspyx)
• Flosstrips with grips (Gripper floss in Fine and Smooth) so easy to use.
• Interdental brushes with simple sizing (Super Tight, Tight, Moderate, Wide and Super Wide)
• Tongue cleaners for adults and kids
• Berry awesome infused flosser designed just for kids
• Braces flosser designed for fixed orthodontics
• Softstx - two ways to clean – super soft mint infused flexible bristles, and a textured toothpick
• Water flossers - a powerful and portable clean
• Sonic cleaners - chemical-free cleaning of oral care appliances with high-frequency ultrasonic vibrations
• IKO finger brushes for adults and children – great for travel packs and hospital stays.
We aim to be simply better - using paper-based packaging instead of 100% plastic bags and post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic. PCR is plastic that has previously been made into a product, used, thrown away, cleaned, re-processed and remade into something new. Products made from PCR close the loop, diverting plastic products from landfills and instead allowing them to be recycled (in its truest sense) into something else.
The Dental Brush range is plant-based and made from a proprietary blend of corn starch and plastic.
GO2 products range in price from $2.95 to $74.95. They all deliver high quality and great value.
Visit www.go2dentagenie.com.au or contact sales@ozdent. com for more information. Catalogues are available and there are also display units for the surgery. n
Get your CPD fix online
Our regular update on some great reading to improve your skills and top up your CPD hours
Take advantage of any downtime by studying at home and keep racking up your CPD points. Subjects in this edition include; antimicrobial management, oral health integration into rural and remote communities and oral care for cardiovascular patients. Whatever your interest, we strive to include something for everyone.
Managing antimicrobials
Antimicrobial use in the community: 2023
• Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care Sydney; ACSQHC, 2024. p. 42
• CPD hours 0.25 scientific
FIND OUT MORE
The Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care has released Antimicrobial use in the community: 2023, which analyses data on antimicrobials supplied under the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) and Repatriation Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (RPBS) from 2015 to
2023. The report features analyses of aged care data and local area data by Statistical Area 3 (SA3) and Primary Health Network (PHN). Key findings include:
• There were 22.1 million antimicrobial prescriptions supplied in 2023 – an increase of 1.3% from 2022, but still 17.0% lower than 2019 and 24.4% lower than 2015
• Despite overall usage remaining stable from 2022 to 2023, there was an 11.1% increase in use by residents of aged care homes during that same period
• Antimicrobial use is notably higher for older Australians who reside in aged care homes than for those who reside in the community; almost three-quarters of aged care home residents received at least one antimicrobial prescription in 2023
• Overall use across states and territories, local areas and aged groups in 2023 remained comparable with previously published data.
The overall decline in antimicrobial dispensing in the community is encouraging and indicates that lower levels of antimicrobial use are achievable in the long term. There is an opportunity
to improve prescribing locally, as it is likely that prescriber preference is a major influence on antimicrobial use. Furthermore, there is opportunity to address high inappropriateness and usage of antimicrobials in aged care.
Remotely caring
Integrating oral health into primary healthcare for improved access to oral health care for rural and remote populations
• Deeble Institute for Health Policy Research Issues Brief no: 56; 2024. p. 40
• CPD hours 0.25 non-scientific
This brief from the Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association’s Deeble Institute examines issues around oral health care for rural and remote populations in Australia. In these settings access to care is a significant issue and it’s suggested that ‘primary healthcare professionals are the main providers of health services in most rural and remote communities and are well positioned to provide basic oral health care.’ The issues brief includes a number of recommendations, including:
• Enhance oral health training for rural and remote primary healthcare professionals
• Standardised and nationally recognise scope of practice for primary healthcare professionals which includes oral health care
• Identify oral health as “core” primary healthcare service, especially in rural and remote areas
• Support innovative integrated oral health models of care
• Increased interoperability and data sharing between dental and general healthcare systems
• Improved access to oral health care under Medicare for rural and remote populations.
Improving quality of life
Restorative and wellbeing care in Australian residential aged care facilities
• Deeble Institute for Health Policy Research Issues Brief no: 54 2024
• CPD hours 1 non-scientific
FIND OUT MORE
The Australian Healthcare and Hospitals Association’s Deeble Institute examines issues around the delivery of restorative and wellbeing
care in residential aged care facilities (RACFs).
According to the authors, ‘The terms restorative and wellbeing care are used to describe care that focuses on maintenance or improvement in function and quality of life.’ Much of this care is provided by allied health workers.
The authors of this brief seek to examine the allied health governance, data collection, and funding barriers to accessing or providing high-quality restorative and wellbeing care in these settings. They make a number of recommendations,
Improving access to oral care for people in remote settings
including amending the minimum standards to support continuous care delivery and equitable access, consolidating allied health funding and care provision within the sector, trialling workforce employment strategies to improve multidisciplinary care, and collect, report, and evaluating data on allied health services.
Cardio scope
Oral health education strategies for patients living with cardiovascular disease within hospital settings: a scoping review
• Front. Public Health, 19 June 2024
Volume 12 - 2024
• CPD hours 0.25 scientific
FIND OUT MORE
This study aims to identify and describe the impact of current oral health education programmes provided to patients in cardiology hospital wards and outpatient clinics. Three eligible studies were identified. All included studies reported generalised poor oral health in their participants at baseline, with significant improvement at followup. They all reported significant reductions in plaque deposits and gingival bleeding. One study reported significantly less bacteria on participant tongues, as well as fewer days with post-operative atrial
fibrillation in the intervention group. Furthermore, in this study, one patient in the intervention group developed pneumonia, whilst four patients in the control group did.
Oral health education for patients with cardiovascular disease is limited and many have poor oral health.
Educational programmes to improve oral health behaviours in patients with cardiovascular disease can improve both oral and general health outcomes.
Being mindful of wellbeing
Psychological safety in medicine: what is it, and who cares?
• Med J Aust || doi: 10.5694/mja2.52263
Published online: 15 April 2024
• CPD hours 0.25 non-scientific
FIND OUT MORE
Psychological safety is a contemporary concept which refers to an individual’s perception of the consequences of
Improving care for cardiovascular patients in hospital
taking an interpersonal risk. Originally explored by Professor Amy Edmondson of Harvard Business School in the late 1990s, the concept was rooted in the observation that successful teams often made more mistakes than less successful ones, simply because they were more open
about discussing and learning from those errors.
As we emerge from the postpandemic ashes, it becomes unequivocally clear that our own wellbeing — and the outcomes of our patients — relies not just on our clinical acumen or brilliant surgical technique, but also on a host of intangible cultural constructs that need upgrading.
Psychological safety has remained on the periphery of the health care world, but now is the time to give it the attention it clearly deserves.
Better use of free time
How would clinicians use time freed up by technology?
• The Health Foundation , May 2024
• CPD hours 0.25 non-scientific
FIND OUT MORE
The idea that technology can free up ‘time to care’ for NHS staff in the UK, allowing the health service to
increase volumes of clinical activity, has become a major focus of health policy, informing the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan and the NHS productivity plan announced in the 2024 Spring Budget.
This project from the Health Foundation explores how freed-up time might be used, drawing on a survey of clinical staff, expert interviews and a rapid evidence review. Freeing up time for better care could be an important benefit of technology but is not the same as freeing up time for more care. The analysis suggests several areas where policymakers and organisational and system leaders could take action to better realise the gains for staff time offered by technology:
• Use realistic estimates and modelling of how freed-up time gets used.
• Prioritise effective implementation and change management processes to ensure freed-up time is used purposefully.
• Gather more evidence on how time freed up by technology is used in practice
• Adopt a broad view of the factors contributing to improved productivity.
• Create a compelling offer for staff, ensuring some freed-up time can be used in ways that improve job quality.
Conquering chronic disease
Translating research into policy for oral health and chronic disease
• MJA Insight + Issue 20, 27 May 2024
• CPD hours 0.25 non-scientific
FIND OUT MORE
Using research in policy development is a complex process in which policy makers encounter numerous barriers. An evidence-based process is essential to improve policy strategies on oral health and chronic disease.
The translation of evidenced-based research into health policy is critical. Disturbingly, current research found that it can take 17 years to translate research into practice.
The treatment of chronic diseases is a growing systemic global health issue that will affect financial, social and community health outcomes.
To improve the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cognitive impairment, it is imperative that evidence of the links between poor oral health and general health are translated into health policy through evidence-based research strategies. To ignore the flaws in the policy process is to ignore the impact of prevention and the value of the public health dollar.
Accountability is vital for policy development success and can be achieved by improving evidence-based research strategies and processes. n
Cultivating a growth mindset
The key to thriving (not just surviving) in your career
By Associate Professor Melanie Aley
Our world is constantly changing and advancing, and this is very evident in the field of dentistry, with new techniques, technologies and research impacting the way we provide evidence-based care for our patients.
The ability to adapt, learn, and grow is not only advantageous, it’s essential for our careers. The concept of a “growth mindset,” first popularised by psychologist Carol Dweck, refers to the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work. This contrasts with a “fixed mindset,” where individuals believe their abilities are static and unchangeable. A fixed mindset might lead an oral health practitioner (OHP) to believe that they have reached the peak of their abilities after obtaining their diploma/degree or completing a certain number of years in practice. In contrast, a growth mindset encourages continual learning and improvement, no matter how experienced one becomes.
For OHPs, cultivating a growth mindset can help you to thrive in your career by unlocking new levels of professional development, job satisfaction, and patient care.
At its core, a growth mindset is about embracing challenges, learning from
mistakes, and viewing effort as the path to mastery. This means recognising that your skills and knowledge are not fixed - they can be continuously developed through lifelong learning, facing challenges, responding to feedback, resilience and adaptability, setting goals, having positive self-belief and supportive networks, as this article will explore!
A growth mindset drives the pursuit of lifelong learning, whether through formal education, workshops, or self-directed study. For instance, advancements in areas like laser dentistry, digital radiography, and patient communication techniques present opportunities for OHPs to expand their skill set and enhance their value within their practice. Continuing education is not just about meeting the Dental Board requirements; it’s about staying curious and open to new ways of thinking. This mindset allows OHPs to proactively seek out learning opportunities rather than waiting for them to become a necessity.
adapting to new technology, or staying calm under pressure are all challenges that can either hinder or enhance your professional development, depending on your mindset. Instead of shying away from these challenges, a growth mindset encourages one to confront them head-on, knowing that each challenge is a chance to learn and improve. In a field where precision is key, mistakes can be particularly daunting. However, a growth mindset shifts the focus from the fear of failure to the lessons that can be learned from it. By reflecting on what went wrong and
“A growth mindset is a powerful tool that can transform your career”
why, hygienists and OHPs can refine their techniques and avoid similar issues in the future. This approach not only improves technical skills but also builds resilience and confidence.
Challenges are inevitable in any profession, but how you approach them can make all the difference. A growth mindset reframes challenges as opportunities for growth rather than obstacles to success. This perspective is especially important in dentistry, where the nature of the work can be both physically and mentally demanding. For example, managing difficult patients,
Feedback is one of the most valuable tools for professional growth, yet it can also be one of the most challenging to receive. For those with a growth mindset, feedback is viewed as an opportunity to gain insights into areas where improvement is possible. Rather than taking feedback personally or defensively, a growth mindset encourages an open and constructive attitude. Whether it comes from colleagues, patients, or supervisors, feedback can provide specific, actionable
information that helps you enhance your skills and patient care. To make the most of feedback, consider actively seeking it out rather than waiting for it to be offered. Regularly ask for input on your performance, and be willing to listen and reflect on the suggestions provided. Over time, this approach will help you build a stronger foundation for continuous improvement.
Resilience and adaptability are essential traits for any OHP. Resilience is about bouncing back from setbacks, whether they are related to patient interactions, workplace dynamics, or personal challenges. A growth mindset equips OHPs with the mental tools to view setbacks as temporary and surmountable. This resilience not only helps maintain a positive attitude but also contributes to long-term career satisfaction and success. Adaptability, on the other hand, involves being open to change and willing to adjust your approach as needed. In a profession where new tools,
techniques, and regulations are regularly introduced, adaptability is crucial. A growth mindset encourages OHPs to embrace change rather than resist it, recognising that each new development is an opportunity to learn and grow.
Goal setting is a powerful way to channel the energy of a growth mindset into tangible results. By setting clear, achievable goals, OHPs can stay motivated and focused on their professional development. When setting goals, consider both short-term and longterm objectives. Short-term goals might include mastering a new technique, improving patient communication skills, or completing a specific continuing education course. Long-term goals could involve advancing to a leadership position, developing your expertise in a specific field of dentistry, or even pursuing further education. Tracking progress is equally important, as it provides a way to measure your growth and celebrate your achievements. Regularly review your goals, assess
your progress, and adjust your plans as needed. This process not only keeps you on track but also reinforces the growth mindset by acknowledging the effort and progress made along the way. Sometimes it can feel like you are going around in circles, but in actual fact you are making slow and steady progress in an upward spiral (see main image).
A growth mindset is rooted in the belief that you can grow and improve over time. This belief is crucial for maintaining a positive attitude, especially in a profession that can sometimes be challenging or stressful. Self-belief and confidence are key components of a growth mindset. When you believe in your ability to learn and improve, you are more likely to take on new challenges and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Developing self-belief involves challenging negative self-talk and focusing on your strengths and achievements. It also means being kind to yourself when mistakes are made, recognising that growth often comes from overcoming difficulties.
Finally, cultivating a growth mindset is easier when you are surrounded by others who share and support this perspective. Seek out colleagues, mentors, and peers who challenge you to grow and provide constructive feedback. Engage in professional networks and communities where you can exchange ideas, share experiences, and learn from others. In the workplace, strive to create an environment that fosters a growth mindset. Encourage open communication, collaboration, and continuous learning among your colleagues. By promoting a culture of growth, you can contribute to a more dynamic and supportive work environment for everyone.
A growth mindset is more than just a way of thinking—it’s a powerful tool that can transform your career as an OHP. n
TOGETHER FOR BETTER
The DHAA are campaigning for oral health practitioners to be part of the GP-led government plan for patients with chronic diseases. DHAA CEO Bill Suen states the case
Poor oral health is recognised widely as a significant public health concern. Current Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) data shows that around a third of Australians over the age of 15 have untreated tooth decay and over 11 percent have missing or decayed teeth. That rate increases to around 20 percent in those aged 55-74 and around 25 percent in those over 75. At the same time, around 29 percent of Australians over 15 years have periodontal diseases.
Oral diseases can lead to lasting physical and psychological disability, impair general health, and exacerbate existing health conditions. Poor oral health is also associated with cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, chronic respiratory conditions, stroke, oral cancers, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease, cognitive impairment, and adverse pregnancy. Chronic diseases are a key challenge for our health system. Around 36% of chronic conditions in Australia are due to poor oral health.
investment in prevention can reduce systemic costs and health outcomes.
AIHW data shows that in 2016-17, 70,200 hospitalisations could have been avoided by prioritising preventive care and timely dental treatment. Despite an increased focus on primary care interventions to address chronic diseases through this government’s Strengthening Medicare program, oral care is not being addressed.
Act now!
routinely incorporate smoking cessation, dietary advice, and alcohol moderation in their care of patients. This common risk factor approach is effective in improving oral health and in the management of systemic diseases.
Be the difference
Dental hygienists, dental therapists, and oral health therapists – collectively known as oral health practitioners (OHP) focus on disease prevention and oral health promotion and maintenance, through clinical intervention and education. OHPs
Investing in these preventive OHPs can therefore have far reaching benefits for oral health and general health of the population.
“Shifting the focus to preventative models led by OHPs have been shown to offer cost effective and accessible alternatives, particularly for high risk populations”
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Patient Experience Survey 2021–22 revealed around one in three (33%) who needed to see a dental professional delayed seeing or did not see one at least once in the previous 12 months – and around one in six (16%) reported that cost was a reason for delaying or not seeing a dental professional, with the rate increasing in lower income segments. This is five times higher than the number of people who delayed seeing a GP. AIHW data also shows that prevalence of decay was more closely aligned with socioeconomic factors than age.
The Australian Government treats oral health separately from other health services in terms of funding, service infrastructure and planning, despite evidence that oral health is fundamental to general health and wellbeing and that
Working together to combat the rising incidence of chronic disease.
Mouth
Shifting the focus to preventative models led by OHPs have been shown to offer cost effective and accessible alternatives, particularly for high risk populations. Residential aged care programs focusing on preventative oral health care, improving oral health literacy of residents, staff, and carers, and providing a referral pathway for timely medical care and other dental treatments demonstrate the effectiveness of the model.
The long-term impact of such a shift will be a reduction in the demand for expensive and complex dental procedures, a possible improvement in the management of systemic diseases through a common risk factor approach, and a likely reduction in preventable hospitalisations.
It is estimated that 20% of Australians currently experience multi-morbidity. Increasing access to oral health services is an essential foundation for improving outcomes for people with chronic disease.
The Medicare M3 Allied Health Services program is designed to support access to treatment and secondary prevention services for consumers with chronic diseases. By recognising the association between chronic diseases and oral health, and OHPs as eligible providers of services under the Allied Health Services program, an opportunity exists to enables early intervention in oral health and improving the >>
“Expanding access to oral health practitioners would allow GPs to refer to OHPs for a therapeutic supportive oral health service”
progression of chronic oral and other related diseases. Given the increasing economic and morbidity costs of oral diseases and the links to general health, OHPs providing prevention and early intervention for oral diseases can have a significant positive impact on the quality of life of people, while diminishing the economic burden for society. The Australian Chronic Disease Prevention Alliance (ACDPA) have identified an expected return on investment is $14 for every $1 invested in prevention. OHPs currently have access to a Medicare funding under the Commonwealth Child Dental Benefit Scheme (CDBS). Expanding access to oral health practitioners under the Allied Health Services program would allow GPs to refer to OHPs for a therapeutic supportive oral health service. It would allow OHPs to assess oral health and provide early intervention support and advice focused on improving oral health management. This would alleviate pressure on the GP network. The National Advisory Council on Dental Health estimated that there are more than 750,000 GP
consultations each year for dental problems, the most common treatment being prescriptions for pain relief medication and antibiotics.
The clock is ticking with cases of tooth decay and periodontal disease quietly developing and adding enormous pressure to the health system via many other chronic conditions. This is why the DHAA is campaigning for the Federal Government to:
• Expand the list of eligible allied health professions that can provide GP-referred Medicare Chronic Disease Management (CDM) services to include oral health practitioners.
• Include OHPs in the list of eligible professions that can be employed by general practices under the Workforce Incentive Program – Practice Stream (WIP).
By including OHPs into a GP led care plan for patients with chronic diseases, we can make a difference to their clinical outcome and wellbeing. n
References
1 Peres M, Macpherson, L., Weyant, R., Daly, B., Venturelli, R., Mathur,M., Listl, S., Celeste, R., Guarnizo-Herreño, C., Kearns, C., Benzian, H., Allison, P., & Watt, R. Oral diseases: a global public health challenge. The Lancet. 2019;394(10194):249-60.
2 Borgnakke WS. Does Treatment of Periodontal Disease Influence Systemic Disease? Dent Clin North Am. 2015;59(4):885-917.
3 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Oral health and dental care in Australia 2023
4 NACDH (National Advisory Council on Dental Health) 2012. Report of the National Advisory Council on Dental Health 2012. Canberra: Department of Health and Ageing.
5 Cardoso EM, Reis C, Manzanares-Céspedes MC. Chronic periodontitis, inflammatory cytokines, and interrelationship with other chronic diseases. Postgraduate Medicine. 2018;130(1):98-104.
6 Nazir MA. Prevalence of periodontal disease, its association with systemic diseases and prevention. Int J Health Sci (Qassim). 2017;11(2):72-80.
7 Crosland P, Ananthapavan J, Davison J, Lambert M, Carter R. The economic cost of preventable disease in Australia: a systematic review of estimates and methods. Aust N Z J Public Health. 2019;43(5):484-95.
8 Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Patient experiences, ABS, Australian Government 2022
9 Australian Bureau of Statistics 4839.0 - Patient Experiences in Australia: Summary of Findings, 2017-18
10 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) Oral health and dental care in Australia 2023
11 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) Oral health and dental care in Australia 2020
12 C. Santhosh Kumar, Shweta Somasundara Y. Common risk factor approach: finding common ground for better health outcomes. International Journal of Contemporary Medical Research 2017;4(6):1367-1370.
13 Wallace J, Mohammadi J, Wallace L, Taylor J, Senior Smiles: preliminary results for a new model of oral health care utilizing the dental hygienist in residential aged care facilities, International Journal of Dental Hygiene, 2015, 1-5
14 Hopcraft M, Morgan M, Satur J, Wright F, Utilising dental hygienists to undertake dental examinations and referrals in residential aged care facilities, Community Dental and Oral Epidemiology, 2011 (39) 378-384
15 Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW) Chronic conditions and multimorbidity, 2020.
16 Borgnakke, W. Does Treatment of Periodontal Disease Influence Systemic Disease? Dental Clinics of North America. 2015;59 (4) 885–917.
Prevention is better than cure
Reframing dental care towards preventive care
By Emma Turner
Dentistry has transformed substantially since its inception as a barberdriven apprenticeship, which is even implicit in our evolution from Dental Surgeons into Doctors of Dental Medicine. So why have we not pivoted our practice of operative dental care towards a more proactive model of care with a focus on oral wellness?
The World Health Organisation 2022 Global Oral Health Status Report1 emphasises that collectively, the prevalence of preventable oral diseases outranks any other health condition, with untreated caries of primary and permanent teeth (affecting 42% of children and 29% of the wider population, respectively) and severe periodontal disease (which affects 19% of adults) continuing to affect a collective 3.5 billion people worldwide. For this reason, the management of established disease ultimately commandeers a considerable portion of our workdays. But how did we get here? Unfortunately, it’s not quite as simple as pointing a finger at Big Soda. Preventive healthcare models applied to chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease are also relevant to oral disease processes. Chronic disease trajectories have been described in terms of allostasis (i.e. a dynamic equilibrium at which health is maintained within an individual’s capacity to respond to disease-modifying stressors) that can ultimately progress to disease
when the individual is subjected to cumulative allostatic loading that exceeds their adaptive capacity.2 While initially reversible and manageable with more conservative interventions, missed windows for interceptive care culminate in chronic disease progression to the point of permanent physiologic damage and dysfunction, necessitating more expensive and invasive treatments. Traditionally, engagement in reactive healthcare coincides with the point at which an individual can identify symptoms – a point at which opportunities for intervention have been missed. Reflecting on oral health and disease, dysbiosis and eventual tissue destruction can arise from cariogenic diets exceeding the capacity for salivary buffering, fluoroprophylaxis or mechanical cleaning to re-establish a health-associated microbiome, as well as dysregulation of host-related factors that can contribute to oral pathosis. In the context of oral mucosal pathology, initial DNA damage caused by carcinogens such as tobacco is usually eliminated by regulatory apoptotic mechanisms. However, abnormal cells may accumulate mutations with chronic exposure if protective cell death pathways are exhausted or evaded, manifesting as increasingly genetically heterogenous and clinically aggressive lesions. Patients experience higher oral morbidity with progression of these disease states (as defined by algorithms such as the International Caries Detection and
“Preventive healthcare models applied to chronic conditions such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease are also relevant to oral disease processes”
Assessment System,3 the 2018 revised periodontal classification4 and even the TNM tumour staging system for oral cavity cancers), eventually resulting in the loss of teeth and key orofacial structures. As is consistent for many legacy approaches to chronic disease management, dental healthcare delivery is grounded in a model of reactive care, with sirens
only beginning to blare when an individual has begun to experience poor oral health outcomes or systemic complications thereof.
Inherent in a problem-oriented pattern of dental care is the perception that disease severity is not sufficient to motivate an individual to access services.5 Although it’s easy for laypeople to visually identify a “poor dentition” that triggers service engagement late in the disease process, we, as dentists, are uniquely trained to provide early diagnoses for our patients with our armamentarium of diagnostic tools and clinical expertise. Herein lies the importance of routine dental visitation to capture patients for opportunistic screening. While regular dental visitation is widespread in childhood, we unfortunately observe an attrition
in rates of routine dental attendance after individuals enter adulthood.6 Although there’s no strong evidence in favour of a standardised frequency of recall intervals for check-ups,7 Australians and New Zealanders who do identify as routine dental attenders have better self-reported oral health and lower oral disease burdens.6, 8 AIHW data8 suggest that patients with problem-oriented patterns of dental attendance have more than three times the incidence of untreated caries and at least 1.5-fold more teeth missing than routine attenders, whose caries is more likely to be managed restoratively than with exodontia. A greater number of extractions in problem-oriented attenders reflects (a) missed opportunities for earlier interceptive treatment to prevent caries progression to the point of pulpal
deterioration, (b) abstention from endodontics, which is often guided by the short-term health economics in those facing financial hardship and (c) clinician-driven decision-making based on perceived restorative prognosis. Unfortunately, those with infrequent dental service engagement are less aware of strategies to prevent dental problems and do not compensate for a lack of professional care by employing more dental self-care behaviours that reduce their need for dental interventions.9 This emphasises the importance of every patient interaction affording opportunities for preventive (and interceptive) care, as well as oral health promotion to optimise hygiene practises and control modifiable caries risk factors. Despite the promise of emerging precision dentistry approaches to >>
detect subclinical oral disease, current gold standards of diagnosis are tailored towards identifying overt clinical and radiographic manifestations of oral disease. At this point (with the exception of intra-enamel caries and plaque-induced gingivitis), irreversible loss of tooth structure or periodontal support has generally occurred, necessitating restorative or surgical care or palliative periodontal maintenance.
While objective measures such as saliva testing can provide insight into a patient’s oral disease risk, identifying risk factors is largely dependent on having a reliable and health-literate historian, as well as knowing which questions to ask to truly deconstruct patients’ behaviours. My clinical interrogation, especially in high disease-risk patients, leaves
no stone unturned until I can firmly settle on modifiable risk factors to encourage patients’ participation in their healthcare journey. Our high caries risk patients frequently report having “normal” diets that are, upon further delving, demonstrably cariogenic. Furthermore, I’ve been astounded by the number of patients I’ve encountered who are naïve to the old chestnut “spit, don’t rinse”10 to reap the rewards of topical fluoride, because cups were co-located with their toothbrushes in the bathroom of their childhood home. As soon as I draw the analogy to applying SPF50 half an hour before going for a swim, minds are blown by the revelation that it’s fruitless to invest in a 5000 ppm toothpaste for it to be instantly washed away without conferring its full remineralising potential. Finally,
it’s often not until we ask our patients to demonstrate their oral hygiene techniques that we might understand why they struggle with mechanical plaque removal. Attention to detail is paramount. However, it also takes time, which (in private practice at least) is money and is unfortunately considered by many to be a luxury in schedules set “I’ve been astounded by the number of patients I’ve encountered who are naive to the old chestnut ‘spit, don’t rinse’ to reap the rewards of topical fluoride”
by KPI-oriented practice managers or over-worked public health services. Perhaps the salaried public dentist has more incentive to channel clinical time into building sustainable oral healthcare habits, with the view to prevent re-presentation with new disease that consumes limited public resources and carries the opportunity cost of others on the waitlist accessing care. However, the majority of oral healthcare in Australia is delivered by private dental practitioners who operate on a feefor-service model heavily influenced by health insurance companies that financially disincentivises the provision of preventive services. Preventive item codes such as 141 (oral hygiene instruction) are not considered to be as profitable as interventional services (especially
high-end restorative services), as the fee scheduling doesn’t necessarily reflect the clinical time invested in counselling patients appropriately. In an ideal world, performance-based pay schemes that reward oral health outcomes would be more conducive to preventive service provision. However, they are exceptionally complex to implement and would have to adjust for patient-related factors to avoid financially disadvantaging providers servicing patients with lower baseline oral health or poor compliance despite their dentists’ best efforts.11 Perhaps the answer lies in government subsidisation of preventive item codes to encourage payment-for-prevention models of remuneration.
Only recently have I crystallised the thought that a clinician’s scope of services would feed into their selfperceived status and professional identity.12 Preventive care doesn’t lend itself to a viral ‘before-and-after’ transformation post that flaunts technical prowess. While established disease ultimately needs to be addressed with rehabilitative care, we fixate too often on procedural capabilities being the marker of a successful clinician rather than their propensity to effect sustainable change in their patients. Some dentists believe that oral health advice is best delivered by dental hygienists, therapists or assistants to allow them to focus on their own extended procedural scope of restorative and surgical care. While we should enlist the broader health workforce and student body to expand our capacity for preventive services, it is our professional responsibility as dentists to provide comprehensive oral healthcare to each of our patients. In my experience at least, the highest degree of career satisfaction comes from empowering vulnerable patients to take agency over their own health journeys to break the cycle of oral disease. n
References
1. Global oral health status report: towards universal health coverage for oral health by 2030. Geneva: World Health Organisation, 2022.
2. Sagner M, McNeil A, Puska P, et al. The P4 Health Spectrum - A Predictive, Preventive, Personalized and Participatory Continuum for Promoting Healthspan. Prog Cardiovasc Dis 2017;59:506-521.
3. Gugnani N, Pandit IK, Srivastava N, Gupta M, Sharma M. International Caries Detection and Assessment System (ICDAS): A New Concept. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2011;4:93-100.
4. Caton JG, Armitage G, Berglundh T, et al. A new classification scheme for periodontal and peri-implant diseases and conditions – Introduction and key changes from the 1999 classification. Journal of Clinical Periodontology 2018;45:S1-S8.
5. Rambabu T, Koneru S. Reasons for use and nonuse of dental services among people visiting a dental hospital in urban India: A descriptive study. J Educ Health Promot 2018;7:99.
6. Thomson WM, Williams SM, Broadbent JM, Poulton R, Locker D. Long-term dental visiting patterns and adult oral health. J Dent Res 2010;89:307-311.
7. Fee PA, Riley P, Worthington HV, Clarkson JE, Boyers D, Beirne PV. Recall intervals for oral health in primary care patients. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2020.
8. Health AIo, Welfare. Dental attendance patterns and oral health status. Canberra: AIHW, 2011.
9. Gilbert GH, Stoller EP, Duncan RP, Earls JL, Campbell AM. Dental self-care among dentate adults: contrasting problem-oriented dental attenders and regular dental attenders. Special Care in Dentistry 2008;20:155-163.
10. Chestnutt IG, Schäfer F, Jacobson AP, Stephen KW. The influence of toothbrushing frequency and post-brushing rinsing on caries experience in a caries clinical trial. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 1998;26:406-411.
11. Vernazza CR, Birch S, Pitts NB. Reorienting Oral Health Services to Prevention: Economic Perspectives. J Dent Res 2021;100:576-582.
12. Leggett H, Csikar J, Vinall-Collier K, Douglas GVA. Whose Responsibility Is It Anyway? Exploring Barriers to Prevention of Oral Diseases across Europe. JDR Clin Trans Res 2021;6:96-108.
About the author
Emma Turner, a founding member of the Colgate Advocates for Oral Health: Editorial Community, completed her Doctor of Dental Medicine at the University of Western Australia as the Australian Dental Graduate of the Year 2020. She is an avid hospital dentist, having worked in Melbourne’s southeast and more recently in the Top End and is passionate about contributing to the future of oral health through dental education, community engagement and research. She hopes to share her insights to encourage members of the dental profession to reflect on opportunities for personal and professional growth to benefit our patients and the wider community.
Republished with permission from Colgate Advocate’s for Oral Health colgateprofessional.com.au/Advocates
Waste not...
Waste is a significant issue for oral care professionals. But you can do something about it—and you may discover that you can recycle far more than you thought possible
Medical waste presents a huge challenge for Australian dental clinicians. Rising volumes and increased variety of medical waste due to the COVID-19 pandemic have fuelled growth in the medical waste services industry. According to IbisWorld, dental service providers will spend $54.5 million on waste processing, treatment and disposal services in 2024, with the vast majority of the waste going to incinerators or landfills.
But there are far more effective ways for dental care professionals to address significant levels of single-use waste
and disposable products and equipment such as toothpaste tubes, toothbrushes, disposable gloves, personal protective equipment (PPE) and face masks.
Why is single-use dental waste not being recycled?
Dental waste is complex and diverse. Common items such as toothpaste tubes, floss, toothbrushes and PPE are typically not kerbside recyclable and often end up in landfills. Although there is a “technical” recycling solution for these items, the main challenge comes down to profitability. Kerbside recycling services will typically only accept waste which is profitable to recycle. If the cost of collecting and processing the waste is lower than the value of the resulting raw material, it will likely be locally recyclable. If the costs are higher than the value of the resulting materials, then it likely won’t be locally recyclable. Furthermore, dental-associated waste is considered complex as it is often made of multiple materials. For instance, PPE gowns could be made from various combinations of different kinds of plastic including polypropylene
(PP), polyethylene (PE), polyester (PET) or SMS making them costly and complex to recycle.
Similarly, disposable face masks are usually constructed with three layers of varying plastic polymer fibres and can include a metal nose clip. To recycle these materials, they must be separated into different material streams and recycled by specialist processors.
A broad range of plastic types are found in common dental waste like toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, floss picks and mouthwash bottles. These include PP, PE, PET and PS, often used in conjunction with materials such as nylon (for toothbrush bristles), aluminium (for lining toothpaste tubes), stainless steel (for electric toothbrush heads) or tin (for the tabs on floss containers). Whilst Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) and Polyethylene (PE) are often kerbside recyclable, Polypropylene (PP) is not always accepted by council recycling services and Polystyrene (PS) rarely.
Complexity arises since most products are composed of a combination of the above materials – therefore even if the
PET on a toothpaste tube is kerbside recyclable, the mixture of other plastics and aluminium present prevents it from being able to be processed by council recycling programs.
Is there a way to recycle the complex dental waste?
Luckily, dental waste including PPE can be recycled via TerraCycle™ through free recycling programs and paid solutions. TerraCycle can recycle the unrecyclable (items not accepted by kerbside services) because brands fund the recycling process. TerraCycle’s free national recycling program with Colgate can recycle any brand of toothpaste tubes and caps, toothbrushes, electric toothbrush heads and floss containers. The program is free for the community to participate in as Colgate covers the costs of recycling. And it’s a great additional service to offer to customers and clinic staff.
Sara Bolton from Samsara Dental has been a TerraCycler for many years and since 2021 has registered her practice as a public drop-off point for TerraCycle’s Colgate Oral Care Free Recycling Program. Sara says, “Our patients and community members are very appreciative of being able to drop off their waste products to us. [The program] brings many non-patients into our practice [and] it’s good to be on the map and share discussions about recycling and waste disposal.”
The Colgate Oral Care Free Recycling Program runs exclusively through the TerraCycle network of public drop-off points and dental clinics can sign up and become a drop-off point for free. A public drop-off point is a community recycling station with the location and opening hours added to a digital map of drop-off points on the TerraCycle website. This level of community engagement can empower collective environmental action and clinics can benefit from the increased foot traffic, brand recognition
“By recycling hard-torecycle waste, dental professionals can play their part in recognising the environmental impact of the products and equipment used daily”
and patients. Being a public drop-off point simply requires the clinic to have a collection point where customers and community members can drop off their dental waste, to send it for recycling to one of TerraCycle’s facilities with a free shipping label. To register as a public drop-off point, dental clinics can visit the TerraCycle program webpage.
For other waste streams such as PPE, TerraCycle’s Zero Waste Box™ is a comprehensive recycling solution for practically everything. These can be purchased for PPE recycling needs, with the Masks - Zero Waste Box, Disposable Gloves - Zero Waste Box, Hair Nets and Beard Nets - Zero Waste Box™ or the Safety Equipment and Protective Gear - Zero Waste Box™ able to be used for a wide variety of waste including disposable masks, gloves, hair nets and safety glasses. In addition to the Colgate program, Samsara Dental also recycles soft plastics from sterilisation pouches using the Soft Plastics WasteZero Waste Box. The clinic has replaced single-use items where possible with autoclavable alternatives, source more biocompatible options and recycle what they can.
iDental Surgery in Sydney has been recycling toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, and other dental hygiene products using the Oral Care Waste and Packaging - Zero Waste Box. Peter from iDental Surgery says this “brilliant initiative” is a huge win for clinics, patients, and the planet, “Community initiatives such as this program are often the ‘tipping point’ for new patients wanting to make a decision on a new dentist.”
The costs of shipping, sorting, cleaning, processing, and recycling the contents are all included in purchasing a Zero Waste Box. However, TerraCycle is not able to accept waste contaminated with blood. Any contaminated PPE should be disposed of appropriately and safely according to relevant guidelines. As with all free and paid recycling solutions, TerraCycle guarantees that all compliant waste is recycled into raw material, which is then sold to manufacturing companies to produce end products to complete the recycling journey.
By recycling hard-to-recycle waste, especially in an industry where waste is unavoidable, dental professionals can play their part in recognising the environmental impact of the products and equipment used daily. From toothbrushes and toothpaste to floss containers and disposable masks and gloves, these items all contribute to
SUSTAINABILITY
Keep on smiling
Cathryn Carboon, explains how passionate campaigners around the world are trying protect our kids’ futures and save our planet from a plasticky end
The International Federation of Dental Hygienists (IFDH) was officially formed in 1986 in Oslo, Norway; uniting dental hygiene associations around the world in their common cause of promoting dental health. One year later in the same city a landmark report “Our Common Future” was launched, uniting countries from around the world in their common cause of transforming our world through the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The General Assembly of the United Nations tasked the World Commission on Environment & Development to formulate a global agenda to develop long-term environmental strategies for achieving sustainable development by the year 2000 and beyond! In 2024 it still feels like an urgent call for change
is warranted, with global warming continuing unabated, leading to increased environmental concerns.
In response to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the World Dental Federation (FDI) developed a “Sustainability in Dentistry Statement” that was a collaborative effort including the IFDH, it was adopted by the FDI General Assembly in 2017.
In 2022 the FDI published a consensus report, which highlighted “the carbon footprint of oral health”. The same year the IFDH conducted a global Sustainable Dentistry Survey. The survey objective was to better understand global dental hygienists’ practices and beliefs on sustainable dentistry. 88% of respondents felt dental hygienists have a responsibility to contribute to sustainability in dentistry and 70% thought we should take the lead, as
individual actions have a significant impact on achieving sustainable dentistry.
An Australian perspective
Every year, 30 million toothbrushes, 50 million toothpaste tubes and thousands of other used oral care products end up in landfill across Australia, contributing to environmental pollution. Australian dental practices also contribute to the high carbon footprint of oral health.
The Australian Dental Association’s “Sustainable Dentistry How-to Guide for Australian Dental Practices” was launched in September 2023. It is a practical resource for Australian dental teams wishing to take action to make their practice more sustainable. It is an Australian version of the original guide, ‘Sustainable Dentistry: How-to Guide for Dental Practices’, published by the
Centre for Sustainable Healthcare in the United Kingdom.
As oral health practitioners we have an ethical duty to be responsible for the oral care products that we provide to our patients in the dental setting and during oral health promotion projects in the community.
Sustainable Smiles
Sustainable Smiles, launched in 2021, aims to embed oral care recycling into school-based oral health promotion programs.
Its objectives are to:
1. Raise awareness of the impact of oral care waste in the environment.
2. Raise awareness of ‘environmentally friendly’ toothbrush and toothpaste choices.
3. Raise awareness of the TerraCycle oral care waste recycling program.
4. Launch community-based, student-led TerraCycle oral care recycling programs.
5. Encourage families to change their behaviour and begin recycling their oral care waste.
6. Share oral health knowledge with school teachers and children to support twice daily toothbrushing with a fluoride toothpaste.
Partnering organisations
The Australian Dental Association (ADA) Dental Health Foundation has partnered with the Mars Wrigley Foundation to provide funding to support community-based oral health programs. The Community Service Grants are awarded to teams of allied dental professionals, encouraging them to implement oral health community service, education, and preventative care in some of the highest risk and
“Every year, 30 million toothbrushes, 50 million toothpaste tubes and thousands of other used oral care products end up in landfill across Australia, contributing to environmental pollution.”
most disadvantaged communities across Australia.
The ADA Dental Health Foundation & Mars Wrigley Foundation “Healthier Smiles Community Service Grants” have provided funding for the Sustainable Smiles project, through the Sun Smiles program, to enable the project to be provided free to all the nominated >>
Cathryn Carboon addressing the Sustainable Smiles audience
schools and childcare services.
Sustainable Smiles has been embedded into the Carevan Foundation Sun Smiles programs. The program is rolled out to leverage off other sustainability initiatives throughout the year, including:
• World Oral Health Day
• Global Recycling Day
• Earth Day
• Planet Ark’s National Recycling Week
TerraCycle is an international leader in innovative sustainability solutions. Operating across 21 countries, TerraCycle’s mission is to rethink waste and develop practical solutions for today’s complex waste challenges, to move the world from a linear to a circular economy. TerraCycle specialises in recycling typically hard-to-recycle waste which is not processed by local councils, such as coffee capsules, cosmetic products and most importantly for the dental industry - oral care waste. Colgate have partnered with TerraCycle to give a second life to used oral care products in Australia. The oral care recycling program provides organisations and schools with the opportunity to collect and recycle oral care products, to prevent them from ending up in landfill, waterways and the ocean. The plastic from used oral care products is sorted, cleaned and melted down into pellets, ready to make new recycled products (including garden seats and school playground equipment).
Sustainable Smiles in action
Care for your teethcare for the planet
The Sustainable Smiles classroom session plan, through PowerPoint, video
clips and group discussion, teaches Grade 5/6 primary school students about the impact of oral care waste on the environment and empowers students to implement a recycling program in their school.
Students are inspired to ‘think green’ with their daily oral hygiene habits, as our collective toothbrush and toothpaste choices can make a big difference to the planet!
Strategies for engagement include getting students to locate the recycling logos and HDPE2 symbols on recyclable toothpaste tubes. Students were encouraged to try a range of ecofriendly toothbrush options, including bamboo and bio-based plastic handled toothbrushes.
Oral health knowledge and oral hygiene skills were shared with the teachers and students, reinforcing the importance of brushing twice a day with fluoride toothpaste to reduce the risk of tooth decay.
Every Drop Counts
‘Every Drop Counts’ is a global campaign to save water with smart brushing habits. Students learnt about turning off the tap every time you brush your teeth – to save up to 64 cups of water per brushing session. Students shared the message #everydropcounts.
Oral health literacy
Each classroom and library are provided with a copy of the children’s book “The Tale of a Toothbrush: a story of plastics in our oceans”.
Written by M.G. Leonard, illustrated by Daniel Rieley and published in 2020 by Walker Books. A topical picture book from international bestselling author M. G. Leonard, that shows children what happens to their plastic toothbrushes after they’re thrown
“The entire oral healthcare community recognises that we have a responsibility to deliver programs that improve oral health in a sustainable manner. It involves positive collaboration within the community and education sectors and can be implemented in private dental practices as well”
away. With a cast of plastic characters, including a pirate-ship bottle and an inquisitive albatross, Sofia’s toothbrush tale is a positive story to help children explore the impact their choices have on our planet.
Oral health packs were distributed to all children taking part in the program, to provide positive oral health messages and dental products for home use.
Oral health hamper competitions were run to encourage families to collect and recycle their oral care waste at the recycling stations, for their chance to win an oral health hamper with sustainable dental products (including bamboo toothbrushes) and children’s oral health books and tooth brushing timers.
Grade 5/6 primary school students in Albury Wodonga have been empowered to tackle sustainability issues and now lead ongoing recycling programs at school to collect and recycle used oral care products through
TerraCycle. Preschool teachers, staff and families in Wangaratta have also participated in the TerraCycle program over several years.
Embedding the recycling program into the community gives families with young children the opportunity to participate in a recycling project and develop a sense of pride that they are contributing to a healthier environment at a local level. Thousands of used toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes and floss containers have been collected and will be sent for recycling at the end of the program.
Media strategy
Bright, engaging social media posts were developed for Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn using the graphic design software “Canva”. Social media tags were used, including #SustainableSmiles, #RecyclingHereos, #TerraCycle.
Evaluation of the Sustainable Smiles program
Both qualitative and quantitative data from the Sustainable Smiles project was collated through a post visit survey. The paper-based “Sustainable Smiles” surveys were provided for each school to assess the impact of the program from a teacher and student perspective. The surveys were administered and collated by the schools involved and evaluated by the Carevan team.
Teachers have benefited from having skilled oral health promoters enriching their school’s curriculum content in different learning areas, including health, literacy and sustainability.
A large increase was observed in the children’s awareness of sustainability issues in oral health care and oral health knowledge .Results from the student evaluation surveys showed 83% learned new information and were inspired by the presentation and discussion.
Let’s
make our planet smile... the future is in our hands
The entire oral healthcare community recognises that we have a responsibility to deliver programs that improve oral health in a sustainable manner.
Sustainable Smiles is a project
is always looking for ways to get her messages across and never misses an opportunity to deliver
that every dental hygienist can implement successfully into their own community. It involves positive collaboration within the community and education sectors and can be implemented in private dental practices as well.
It is very rewarding to know that you can make a difference within the dental profession to support sustainable practices and in-turn help care for the environment by addressing the issue of oral care waste. n
Cath
About the author Cathryn Carboon Registered Dental Hygienist , Master of Health Promotion, Cert IV in Training and Assessment, Victorian Chair of the Dental Hygienists Association of Australia.
Cathryn Carboon was an invited speaker at the IFDH’s International Symposium on Dental Hygiene in Seoul Korea in July 2024, raising the profile of sustainability in
Take proper note
We discuss what effective note taking is all about, ways to do it better and and the professional ramifications of getting it wrong
Imagine receiving a claim months, or even years, after an incident had occurred. Would you be able to recall past events accurately purely from memory? Your memory may be unreliable.
This is where detailed and consistent note taking can be valuable and may even be used as evidence when defending a claim.
In this article, Natalie Laidlaw and Ysabelle Kong of Barry Nilsson discuss best practices for effective note taking, the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in note taking, and your professional obligations as an oral health practitioner. BMS discusses how detailed notes and records can assist in the event of a claim.
What are your professional obligations?
The Dental Board of Australia’s shared Code of Conduct includes several professional obligations for oral health practitioners to maintain clear and accurate dental records that assist in providing good care to their patients, and to ensure that there is continuity of care in helping to keep the public safe. These professional obligations include:
• Obtaining informed consent from your patient and always recording the information necessary to demonstrate that informed consent has been provided;
• Maintaining accurate, up-to-date, and legible records. This includes obtaining and documenting clear, complete and accurate patient history including
clinical findings, investigations, information provided and medication or other management provided;
• Implementing good processes to support the provision of good health records. This includes writing notes contemporaneously or as soon as possible after to ensure the written notes are detailed and contain all necessary information. If any information is retrospectively added to the notes, this should be clearly recorded as an amendment by noting the name of the person making the amendment and the date;
• Ensuring the health records can facilitate continuity of care. This means that if your patient is referred to another practitioner, or a different oral health practitioner is reviewing
“Would you be able to recall past events accurately purely from memory? Your memory may be unreliable. This is where detailed and consistent note taking can be valuable and may even be used as evidence when defending a claim”
the health records, they should be able to easily obtain and understand the patient’s clinical history, their concerns, any treatment received to date, and what the next steps in the treatment plan are (if any);
• Ensuring the health records are secure from unauthorised access, and that they remain private and confidential;
• Understanding that patients have a right to access information in their health records and facilitating this access;
• Understanding that as patients may choose to access the information in their health records, the records are respectful towards the patient and are free from demeaning or derogatory remarks; and >>
• Facilitating the transfer of health information to a different practitioner or clinic when requested by patients.
What is effective note taking?
Effective note taking can be considered as notes that are visually clear, concise, organised and structured. Importantly, all the relevant information is readily identifiable to enable a different practitioner to assume the patient’s care. Therefore, oral health practitioners should consider implementing a structure for their notes including recording the patient’s presenting complaint, the relevant medical history, the purpose of the consultation, what procedure/s will be performed, obtaining informed consent to perform the procedure/s (if any), performing the procedure, setting out an appropriate treatment plan, identifying relevant post-care, and providing their patient with appropriate advice if they have any concerns following their treatment. Some practices for effective note taking may include:
• Adopting an acronym such as SOAPIF (i.e. Subjective, Objective, Assessment, Plan, Information and Follow up) to assist you with signposting to record the relevant information;
• Ensuring the notes are objective and factual and do not include value-based judgments or irrelevant opinions;
• Completing notes contemporaneously;
• If using tools such as AI and quick notes, carefully review the notes to ensure the notes remain tailored to the specific patient;
• Ensure records are legible and only use abbreviations and acronyms that can be understood by another practitioner;
• The substantive of discussions forming informed consent are
recorded rather than only ‘consent obtained’ or the like; and
• After completing your notes, ask yourself whether they contain sufficient information for someone else to assume the patient’s care without clarification from you.
Safeguards that may assist clinics to ensure that oral health practitioners are practising accurate and sufficiently detailed note taking practices include regular training for staff on note taking and professional obligations relating to health records. Clinics can also consider developing and implementing note taking policies and procedures including templates.
Does AI count?
AI is fast becoming a tool which health professionals, oral health practitioners, are relying on to assist them in
automating vast amounts of information provided, including assisting in recording and organising patient records.
Some of the benefits of incorporating AI to record patient records include improved accuracy, efficiency, increased organisation, accessibility, costs saving and security. AI can be used at the time of the consultation and will automatically create a record of the information, including patient history, presenting complaint and management. This provides for fast data collection and reduces the need for a practitioner to manually scribe their notes, which can often result in improved care provided to patients.
However, there are limitations of AI which oral health practitioners need to consider including, but not limited to, the implementation of the AI software, obtaining informed consent and ensuring the privacy of their patient’s records.
“As an oral health practitioner, your clinical notes and records can be invaluable. These notes may provide useful information that could assist in your defence should you face a claim or complaint”
processes and procedures that come with using the AI software. Patients’ consent for the use of AI is critical and must be documented in the records. There is also a risk that a patient may not consent to the use of AI to record their information, and accordingly, an oral health practitioner will still be required to manually record patient information. Further, as patients’ health information may be stored in a third party’s system, practitioners need to consider whether the collected information is being distributed within the third party’s system to ensure that they are complying with their privacy obligations.
Furthermore, while AI can be a useful tool for note taking, a health practitioner is still required to review the records taken by any AI software to confirm the contents are accurate. It is recommended that the health practitioner only sign or approve the records generated by AI, once the records have been reviewed and verified as being complete and accurate. The use of AI does not discharge an oral health practitioners’ professional obligations and may pose risks if the information is not accurate. Therefore the implementation and use of AI needs to be carefully considered to ensure the risks of doing so are managed appropriately.
Notes for mitigating risk
As an oral health practitioner, your clinical notes and records can be invaluable. These notes may provide useful information that could assist in your defence should you face a claim or complaint.
The use of AI relies on the software being integrated into the practitioners’ system, or their clinic’s system, requires the software to be compatible with their system and it also requires that all staff are provided adequate, and updated, training to understand the
If faced with a claim or incident, speak to your insurer directly for information about the claims process. If you are part of the DHAA Member Insurance Program, BMS can assist you. Speak to a BMS broker on 1800 940 762, or complete and submit the relevant claims form in the BMS Portal. n
This article is facilitated by BMS with information on best practices for effective note taking, AI in note taking, and professional obligations by Natalie Laidlaw and Ysabelle Kong of Barry Nilsson. BMS covers how notes and records can assist in the event of a claim.
Barry Nilsson communications are intended to provide commentary and general information. They should not be relied upon as legal advice. Formal legal advice should be sought in particular transactions or on matters of interest arising from this communication.
You must be a current DHAA member to be eligible for the DHAA member insurance program. If your membership ceases you will not be offered renewal when your policy expires. In arranging this insurance for our members DHAA is acting as a distributor of BMS Risk Solutions Pty Ltd (BMS) AFSL 461594, ABN 45161187980. This insurance is issued by BMS under binder with Certain Underwriters at Lloyds. When acting under a binder BMS acts as agent for the insurer and not as your agent. This is general advice only and BMS has not considered whether it was suitable for your particular objectives, needs or financial situation. Please read the Policy Wording/ Product Disclosure Statement and the BMS Terms of Engagement which contains the Financial Services Guide before making a decision about purchasing this policy. DHAA may receive a percentage of the commission paid to BMS by the insurer and/or a fee per policy.
A full state-by-state run-down of Association happenings around the country
STATE NATION
ACT
ACT contacts:
Director Amy McDermott directoract@dhaa.info
Chair Kate Spain chairact@dhaa.info
n The ACT full day seminar was held on Saturday 17 August at the East Hotel with a full house and we had to negotiate with the venue to increase the capacity. Attendees were impressed with the great topics offered by oral surgeon Dr Jacqueline Dobes, periodontist Dr Clarence Da Cruz, epidemiology researcher Sinan Brown, dentists Dr Ornella DelliRocili and Dr Joseph Da Cruz, as well as pharmacist Belinda Mackenzie. The next ACT event will be our end of year Christmas Dinner on Friday 22 November at the Southern Cross Club.
“ Attendees were impressed with the great topics offered at the ACT full-day seminar held on Saturday 17 August ”
Please mark in your diary and look out for program announcement and registration opening. Given the popularity of our ACT events, early registration is recommended to secure a place.
NSW
NSW contacts:
Director Jinous Eighani-Roushani directornsw@dhaa.info
Chair. Belinda Hines chairnsw@dhaa.info
Deputy Chair Angelee Murdock contactnsw@dhaa.info
n The June NSW full-day seminar was held at the Pullman Sydney Hyde Park with an impressive program ranging from application of Chinese medicine in dentistry, to oral examination techniques, digital dentistry and dental wellbeing. Attendees were certainly treated with the most advanced developments in dentistry provided by experts in their respective fields.
NSW Director Jinous Eighani-Roushani attended the Newcastle University BoH Expo day on 16 July and met with their students to promote DHAA membership.
To celebrate the 2024 Dental Health Week, NSW Committee member and DHAA Chair of Oral Health Promotion and Public Health Committee Ian Epondulan led a team of volunteers that provided an oral health session to the local Nigerian Community group of around 100 people on Sunday 11 August at the Holy Family Church in South Granville.
The next NSW event will be our end of year Perio Dinner Celebration, to be held on Friday 15 November at Novotel Parramatta.
Periodontist Dr Judd Sher is the guest speaker on periodontal regeneration and the biological principles involved, and to discuss what can be achieved with new techniques. For details and registration CLICK HERE “ Ian Epondulan led a team of volunteers that provided an oral health session to the local Nigerian Community group of around 100 people”
For all the latest info on DHAA events please visit www.dhaa.info/events
NT
NT Contact:
Chair Katy Smith chairnt@dhaa.info
Staff Bill Suen bill.suen@dhaa.info
n We welcome Katy Smith who kindly accepted the position of NT Chair. Katy is in the process of organising a Northern Territory education event, so please look out for
“ We welcome Katy Smith who kindly accepted the position of NT Chair”
further announcements. If you are interested in helping out, please email bill.suen@dhaa.info
Qld
Qld Contacts:
Director Carol Tran. directorqld@dhaa.info
Chair Gabby Williamson chairqld@dhaa.info
Deputy Chair Courtney Dicken contactqld@dhaa.info
n The full-day education program scheduled for Saturday 13 July at
“ The Qld Committee is in the process of finalising the program and details for their next event, so please mark this in your diary”
SA
the Coco Hotel Indigo in Brisbane was a sold out at capacity and we apologise to several members who missed out on the day. A big thank you to the expert presenters of the day including endocrinologist Dr Jessica Triay, orthodontist Dr Desmond Ong, paediatric dentist Dr Alexei Mogilevski, speech pathologist Joanna Harris, and periodontist Dr Sven Bohnstedt provided a solid day of quality education to attendees.
The next Queensland event is scheduled for Saturday 7 December. This will be our half-day seminar and end-of-year celebration. The Qld Committee is in the process of finalising the program and details so please mark this in your diary and look out for announcements when registration is open to avoid missing out.
SA Contacts: Director Michelle Kuss michelle.kuss@dhaa.info
Chair Courtney Rutjens chairsa@dhaa.info
Deputy Chair Jesse Kourakis contactsa@dhaa.info
n We thank the South Australia ADA for hosting our Mental Health First Aid Workshop in July over a full weekend. The day was a great success with our own Marcy Patsanza-Mkonto and ADA Dr Katy Theodore co-presenting the workshop.
“ Participants gained confidence in dealing with mental crisis through both the discussions and hands on practice, and were certified as a mental health first aider on completion of the post workshop assessment.”
Participants gained confidence in dealing with mental crisis through both the discussions and hands on practice, and were certified as a mental health first aider >>
on completion of the post workshop assessment.
Congratulations to Courtney Rutjens, Jesse Kourakis and the SA Committee for delivering a remarkable full day event on Friday 2 August at the Kooyonga Golf Club. The impressive education program and world class venue attracted a record crowd of over 100 attendees on the day, with many missing out a place due to venue capacity limitation.
The next event will be held on Sunday 8 December at Fuego by the Sea. It will be a half day private themed Christmas Brunch to celebrate the end of 2024. And in the spirit of giving, five dollars from every registration sold will be donated to the local charity Treasure Boxes to support children with critical needs from poverty, homelessness
“ Congratulations to Karen Lam, who had an article in the Tasmania Examiner to highlight the importance of oral health. ”
and domestic violence.
The invited speaker is Erfanullah Abidi, an award winning advocate originally from Afghanistan. He will share his story of his exceptional resilience and dedication in both his
personal and professional life. He served as an interpreter and cultural adviser for NATO armed forces during the war in Afghanistan.
Given the popularity of our events early registration is highly recommended if you don’t want to miss out on securing a place . For details and registration please
TasTAS Contacts:
Chair Karen Lam chairtas@dhaa.info
Staff Bill Suen bill.suen@dhaa.info
n Congratulations to outgoing chair Karen Lam, who had an article published in the Tasmania Examiner to highlight the importance of oral health. She also conducted an oral health promotion session at her local child care centre during Dental Health Week. We are now seeking expression of interest for volunteers to take the Tasmania chair’s role, or to help in planning and running Tassie events. The next scheduled event will be a full day at the Lenna of Hobart on Saturday 16 November. Please email bill.suen@dhaa. info if you are able to help. Vic
Vic Contacts
Director Roisin McGrath directorvic@dhaa.info
Chair Cathryn Carboon chairvic@dhaa.info
Deputy Chair Sarah Laing contactvic@dhaa.info
For all the latest info on DHAA events please visit www.dhaa.info/events
n The joint DHAA - ADA Mental Health First Aid workshop was held at the ADAVB training room from 20-21 July, and co-presented by Dr Katy Theodore (ADA) and Marcy PatsanzaMkonto (DHAA). We thank ADA for their support in this event as part of the Victorian Government sponsored wellbeing grant project.
The August Full-Day Seminar was held at the stylish Courtyard by Marriott on Saturday 3 August. The full day program covered a range of innovations in diagnosis, mobile and minimal intervention dentistry, large language models in dentistry, paediatric special needs as well as exploring
“ Congratulations to Cathryn, Sarah, Michaela, Veronica and the Victorian committee for organising such an inspiring program”
opportunities in innovative private practice for OHPs. Congratulations to Cathryn, Sarah, Michaela, Veronica and the Victorian committee for organising such an inspiring program for our Victorian members.
As part of the Dental Health Week activities, Ying Chia presented at the Filipino Elderly Association’s well as to the Chinese community group at the Christ Truelight Church on separated occasions with a range of age groups from six to 80 years old.
CEO Bill Suen presented to CSU BoH students at its Holmesglen campus and recruited over 90 student members on the spot on Monday 12 August.
The final event of the year is our highly popular Kooyong Christmas Brunch to be held on Saturday 23 November featuring a variety of hot topics including digital health, implant maintenance update and periodontitis.
This is a highly popular
event and places are usually filled quickly. Please mark your diary and look out for registration opening announcement via your membership email and secure your place easier.
WA Contacts
Director: Ron Knevel directorwa@dhaa.info
Chair: Michelle Wrights contactwa@dhaa.info
Staff: Bill Suen bill.suen@dhaa.info
n Congratulations to Michelle Wright who has just taken the WA Committee Chair’s role. Michelle has been leading the team in WA and organised some very successful events as deputy chair since the beginning of the year. We thank her for agreeing to step up to the chair’s role.
The next WA event will be Saturday 30 November for a half-day end-of-year celebration. This afternoon event will be held at the Pagoda Resort & Spa in Como. The WA Committee is at present planning for this highly popular event so please keep your eyes out for further information to be released in due course, but mark it in your diary for the time being. n
www.dhaa.info