Review: BACD 18th Annual Conference - A Technician Masterclass

BACD 18TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE

A Technician Masterclass

The BACD Annual Conference – On The Shoulders Of Giants – delivered an exceptional educational programme for everyone with a passion for ethical cosmetic dentistry. More than this, it was a chance for the profession to come together, collaborate, engage with the trade and make the most of the community and family that the BACD is so well-known for.

For dental technicians, an entire day was dedicated to you, with a comprehensive session presented by Mr Peter Pizzi. Entitled “Understanding the Synergy Between Face, White and Pink”, the day’s lecture was more of an interactive discussion, with delegates encouraged to engage with the speaker throughout, to ask questions, challenge comments and share their own experiences.

Covering a huge range of topics within the given time, Peter looked at various ways in which technicians can impact the aesthetic and functional outcome of restorations. The relationship with the dentist, as well as communication of diagnostic and planning information, will influence the results significantly. So too will the technician’s understanding of the materials they are using – this is essential if individuals are to optimise properties and deliver the very best solutions. Interestingly, Peter did not believe that the specific brand was wholly important. With around 400 ceramic products on the market and only approximately seven manufacturing facilities worldwide, he was of the belief that many offered very similar benefits in experienced hands.

A thought-provoking discussion took place regarding shade guides and how the technician can or should be matching

their products to the dentists’ prescription. Peter shared his own unique approach to shading, including the shades he uses to layer restorations and achieve fluorescence that very cleverly mimics the natural dentition. The core message was that the technician is responsible for manipulating how light is absorbed and reflected in a restoration – this is how aesthetics are optimised and made to look as natural as possible.

Peter also talked about photography, describing it as “the most important tool in cosmetic dentistry”. Not only do they support diagnostics and treatment planning, but they also improve communication, self-development, case monitoring, legal documentation and marketing. He showed the typical photo series that he uses, emphasising the importance of a patient keeping their head completely straight during the shoot!

Looking at materials in more detail, Peter considered lithium disilicate and silicate, as well as composites and ceramics. He believes that “hybrid materials are the future for us” as they will provide the best combination of strength and aesthetics. He also went on to discuss implant restorations, highlighting the technician’s role in helping to prevent excess cement leading to peri-implant disease and implant failure – retrievability of the prosthesis is essential.

We caught up with Peter straight after the session and he said: “It’s an honour to be invited to speak - people wanting to learn is what keeps speakers like me going. And being able to engage in-person again is fabulous. The main benefits of this event are how the BACD treats speakers and the chance it provides to meet friends. I often feel a sense of comradery when I visit the UK and I feel it here. Plus, professionals seem to have a big interest in improving and growing, which is a nice feeling as a teacher.”

Delegates were just as positive about the day. Danny Cleary from DSD Dental Lab Ltd commented: “An amazing lecture by Peter, I learnt so much in such a short amount of time. The BACD have done a great job inviting Peter! I will want to see him again or go on a course of his after today.”

Dafydd Daves from Precision Dental Lab added: “Really good day, very informative. Will definitely do it again - I learnt a lot about ceramic build-ups.”

Aside from the all-day session, technicians also had access to the exhibition, where an array of dental manufacturers and service providers were on hand to provide further information and demonstrations. This was an excellent platform for networking and enjoying some down time with friends across the profession as well. Plus, the BACD Gala Dinner provided a stunning winter wonderland for an evening with excellent food and even better company.

Chris McConnell, now the Immediate Past President of the BACD, commented: “For me, the BACD is a family. I would like to thank the Board, the trade and everyone else who helped make this Conference such a great event. I really appreciate all your support!”

The BACD remains focused on supporting the entire dental team in order to promote ethical cosmetic dentistry across the UK and even further afield.

If the 2022 Annual Conference was anything to go by, you won’t want to miss next year’s event – registration is now

live on the website!

BACD 19th Annual Conference I New Horizons 9-11th November 2023 I London I www.bacd.com