Leading the way for implants

Implantology is one of the newest and fastest growing areas of dentistry. Yet a report by the General Dental Council (GDC) reveals that there is a distinct lack of guidance for dentists, and circumstances in which a dentist has not been adequately trained poses a risk to patients.

One body that is keen to ensure the industry is portrayed in a positive light, and that all involved carry out this invasive procedure to the highest standard is the Association of Dental Implantologists (ADI). Lead by its new president, Paul Stone, the Association has a number of aims including establishing core guidelines and a registerable qualification.

One of the concerns of the ADI is the perception put forward by many of the implant manufacturers that placing implants is a relatively straightforward and rewarding area of dentistry. Prospective dentists can be trained over a few weekends and then can place implants at will. Although in some cases implantology can be straightforward, the potential dental and medical pitfalls can be huge. Whilst the GDC is not responsible for the setting of detailed clinical standards in particular areas of dentistry, it is clear that action is needed to protect patients.

Paul says: "There is understandable confusion among the public and our colleagues in the dental profession as to who is appropriately trained and experienced." He adds: "In my opinion, a qualification should be available to all, but would be of a sufficiently high standard that most dentists intending to present for assessment would require significant additional training."

As to who delivers the training, sets the standards, and examines to assess for such a qualification to be recognised by the GDC is yet to be decided, but through the efforts of the ADI, the industry is making considerable headway towards agreeing appropriate training and competence.

Dermot McNulty has been actively involved in the placing and restoring of implants since 1987 and in the formation of the ADI, attending countless post-graduate programmes in the UK, Europe and the United States.

In order to formalise his expertise in this area, Dermot is about to complete the 18-month postgraduate Diploma in Implantology, leading to the Masters of Science Degree.

The diploma is awarded by the Faculty of General Dental Practitioners (FGDP) at the Royal College of Surgeons, London. It is a joint programme between the FGDP and Frankfurt and Tubingen Universities in Germany.

Dermot has been accepting referrals from practitioners for over 12 years. He has also attended a number of 12-month courses on restorative and aesthetic techniques and remains committed to excellence in all aspects of dvanced restorative and implant entistry.

If you are interested in referring patients to Dermot for implants and/or advanced restorative dentistry, please call the practice for a referral pack on 01225 464346 or email Dermot on dermot@bathspadentistry.co.uk.

1 Mar 2007 13:00:00 (Source: Bath Spa Dentistry)

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Bath Spa Dentistry has been based in Bath for over 15 years and has a state of the art building allowing the dental practice to provide up to date dental treatments and services in a relaxed and caring environment coupled with the latest in entertainment technology.

Tel: 01225 464346
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Email: enquiries@bathspadentistry.com
Bath Spa Dentistry, 19a James Street West, Bath, BA1 2BT