the bulletin - issue 34 march/april 2015
DESCRIPTION
The Official Journal of the Dental Hygienist's Association of AustraliaTRANSCRIPT
Issue 34 March-April 2015
STATE OF THE NATION A round-up of what’s happening near you
The great age debate As the population ages what is being done about their teeth
Page 08
The official newsletter of the Dental Hygienists’ Association of Australia Ltd
DHAA RESEARCH FUND Now’s the time to get your submissions in
UP CLOSE & DENTAL We review the handy intra-oral camera from SoproLIFE
3
2015 – A new year and a new beginningWelcome to 2015! Congratulations to all new graduates – we hope you enjoy your start to practice life.
While your education and training will have prepared you well, know that this first year in practice will be an exponential learning experience. The DHAA is here to support you in your new careers, and to provide advice on employment conditions and structured professional relationship agreements, CPD opportunities as well as an
opportunity to network with other members through our Facebook group. Reflecting on my first year as National President, I am very proud of all that we
have achieved. The Council has reached many of the measurable goals, including:• Establishing a strong Bulletin team, providing four high quality issues per year.• For the first time ever, negotiation of joint Principal Sponsors for Symposium.• Successful planning and vote in favour of the DHAA restructure and constitution.• Appointment of a full-time Executive Officer.• Increased member engagement through social media.• Contributing to the National Oral Health Planning, Dental Board Scope of
Practice forums, Australian Dental Council forum, Minimal Intervention Dentistry group meetings and media releases in co-operation with the Public Health Association of Australia.
• Creating new relationships with the Dental Students Association and Dental Developmental Defects (D3) group.
The Council has set new goals for the DHAA and its members in 2015. These include:• Engage with States to ensure a smooth transition to the restructured DHAA Ltd.• Improve our website and database to better service members and the public.• Engage with other professional organisations and health promotion campaigns.• Explore member needs through a membership survey.• Develop the operating budget to ensure financial strength. • Continue to advocate for preventive oral health services and access to care.
Finally, I wish to thank all State National Councillors, as well as my fellow National Executive, for their tireless work and positive attitude. Without these volunteers the DHAA simply would not be able to function. Remember, if you are keen to give back to your profession, get in contact with your State committee.
See you all in the next edition!
Mel HayesDHAA National President
03
Contents03 President’s Message
2015 – A new year and a new beginning
04 News Smile For Life and all the latest things that matter.
08 COVER STORY The Great Age Debate Joanna Mohammadi explores the dental hygiene dilemma created by an ageing population
14 Supporting Research Yvonne Flaskas takes a look at DHAA’s Dental Hygiene Research Fund
16 Product Review A detailed look at the SoproLIFE intra-oral camera.
18 All going on in the West Three events in one month for the guys and gals of DHAA WA.
20 State of the Nation The first state-by-state round-up of the year.
25 Event Planner Check what’s happening near you in 2015.
The Bulletin is an official publication of the DHAA Ltd. Contributions to The Bulletin do not necessarily represent the views of the DHAA Ltd. All materials in this publication may be readily used for non-commercial purposes. The Bulletin is designed and published by eroomcreative.com
PRESIDENTMel Hayes
CONTACT
VICE PRESIDENTJo Purssey CONTACT
TREASURERCheryl Day
CONTACT
IT REPJosh Galpin
CONTACT
National Executive
Smile for LifeNow is your chance to help promote our industry around the world
World Oral Health Day takes place on 20 March, 2015. This annual event is an
international day to celebrate the benefits of a healthy mouth and to promote worldwide awareness of the issues around oral health and the importance of looking after oral hygiene to everyone.
The theme is “Smile for life!” and has a double meaning: ‘lifelong smile’ and ‘celebrating life’. In addition, it implies ‘positivity’ and ‘having fun’ as people only smile if they are happy and have a healthy life. This year our efforts will be on wishing everybody a lifelong and healthy smile at all ages.
Dental hygienists and oral health
therapists are the heart of preventive oral health, and it is time promote this message loud and clear. It’s time to get involved, promote oral health in our communities and reach as large an audience as possible. We strongly encourage our members to take part.
Further information is available at www.worldoralhealthday.com n
How you can get involved There are many ways you can get
involved. Here are a few suggestions;
• Visit a local pre-school, school or
nursing home to promote oral health
• Give a talk to a local diabetes, stroke or
heart health group
• Change your Facebook profile picture
or update your status showing support
for World Oral Health Day
• Set up a stall offering free dental advice
and information (maybe even goodie
bags with samples!)
• Print a poster and place in your
practice. You can find some useful
resources at www.worldoralhealthday.
com/resources
Make it socialShare and promote your activities and
be sure to use the hashtags #WOHD15
#smileforlife and remember to tag your
DHAA as follows;
Instagram – @dhaainsta;
Twitter – @dhaanews;
Facebook – Dental Hygienists
Association of Australia
ENGLISH
World Oral Health Day20th March
05
References: Buddhi Bangara Foundation Netherlands. (n.d.). English info. Retrieved from Buddhi Bangara Foundation Netherlands: www.buddhibangara.org/English_info. IFDH. (2015). IFDH & Global Child Dental Fund. Retrieved from International Federation of Dental Hygienists: www.ifdh.org/social-responsibility-awardLa Trobe University. (2015). Ronald Knevel. Retrieved from La Trobe University Staff Database: www.latrobe.edu.au/she?uname=RKnevel
AT THE 2014 NATIONAL Symposium,
the Association voted in favour of
restructuring the DHAA into one
single national entity. We are now
moving into the next phase of this
process – the individual branches.
DHAA Inc is currently undergoing
a makeover and transforming into
DHAA Ltd. This transformation is
being handled by Executive Officer
Chris Wain and it will leave DHAA Ltd.
ready for individual branches to merge
into the national entity.
First cab off the rank has been
Queensland with a ‘Yes’ vote on
transferring their State branch to a
National one. Go Queensland – love
that progressive attitude! Following
closely behind them is South Australia
with a possible vote in March, and New
South Wales have been in talks as well.
Now, don’t be alarmed by this flurry
of activity. Every branch can take as
much or as little time as they need
with this process. These individual
votes are the responsibility of each
separate branch and will be run by the
branch committee. And again with as
much or as little help from National as
is requested.
More information will be coming
to you as things progress, both on a
National and State level. If you have
any questions, concerns or comments
please get in touch with your local
committee or drop us a line at
SOCIALLY RESPONSIBLE DHAA restructure gathers pace
Aussie hygienist gets international recognition
Cheryl Day reports on the Association’s transition
THE INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION of Dental Hygienist (IFDH) and the Global Child Dental Fund launched the ‘Dental Hygienist – Social Responsibility Award’ to recognise hygienists and student hygienists who participate in volunteering projects that benefit disadvantaged children.
First runner-up for 2014 was Ronald Knevel, a dental hygienist from Bendigo.
Ronald, who is a senior lecturer and third-year co-ordinator at the School of Dentistry and Oral Health at La Trobe University in Bendigo, was recognised for his project entitled “Buddhi Bangara Project” – supporting the professionalisation of the dental hygiene profession in Nepal, and the ongoing improvement of the oral health of Nepalese people.
As the founder and chair of the Buddhi Bangara Foundation (BBF), Ronald visits Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, approximately four to six weeks per year. The BBF supports the improvement of oral health of Nepalese people by creating a group of Nepalese Oral Health Promotors who in turn, with local tools, are able to provide oral health promotion and promote the positive effect of good dental hygiene.
The program provides support through guest-teachership, knowledge exchange and helping to professionalise the curriculum.
The DHAA would like to congratulate Ronald Knevel on his achievement with the Social Responsibility Award and his academic achievements throughout his career - his work is truly remarkable!
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7
THIS YEAR SAW the University of Newcastle (UON) welcome their first intake for the new combined degree of Oral Health Therapy. The course will provide classes and opportunities for both new and current students.
The new degree replaces the hugely successful Bachelor of Oral Health program that launched in 2004.
The now-graduated third year students had the opportunity to travel to Soe in West Timor to work in villages on the locals, giving them care and dental attention, teaching the children the importance of brushing, and having a life changing experience.
Second-years attended a nursing home, helping in a program which aided the residents care for their teeth and dentures. Then, visiting pre-schools teaching four to five year olds the important oral hygiene routines.
The very eager first-years got the opportunity to step into the campus clinic, putting their studies into practice.
Last year marked the first year that UON students attended the Australian Dental Student Association (ADSA) convention on the Gold Coast - connecting us with students from all over the country and New Zealand.
Last year saw the revival of the University of Newcastle Oral Health Student Society (UNOHS) after a three year hiatus. This was celebrated by holding three social events for students, which will hopefully see the society grow in popularity.
Recent celebrations have included mid-semester drinks; an end of first semester dinner; BBQ fundraisers and an end of year event.
The first UNOHS end of year cocktail party at the Sydney’s Cargo Bar, was a night to remember!
Both UNOHS and UON are looking forward to a bright 2015 and showing the new students what an amazing time they can have and introducing them to some special people along the way. n
Vale Tom HigginsElizabeth Wells pays tribute to a very special man and his contribution to our association.
PERIODONTIST
DR TOM HIGGINS
was a leading-
light for our
Association and a
positive influence
on the profession.
Dr Higgins ran the Periodontic
Post-Graduate course at the Royal
Melbourne Dental Hospital for many
years. He was instrumental in having
an amendment to the Dental Act that
allowed Dental Hygienists to practice
in Victoria. Tom ran “cramming”
sessions for overseas trained
hygienists before they made the
trek to Adelaide for the Registration
Exam – highly controversial as many
dentists were opposed to us being
allowed to register.
He was the first employer of a
hygienist - Paulette Smith – this
validated the Association and we
began dialogue with the ADA VB.
For our early Continuing
Education evenings Tom would often
step-up and present information-
packed lectures (with a large dash of
humour). His patronage of the Dental
Hospital meant we could book the
Geoffrey Wylie Theatre. This enabled
us to appear professional while
keeping the costs down – there were
only 24 of us then!
Tom’s efforts certainly helped to
shape our profession as we know it
today. His influence was such, that
when he retired the DHAA VB threw
a going away party for him and 32 of
48 registered hygienists attended.
Tom Higgins passed away in
Tasmania on the 24 January, 2015.
The DHAA offers its heartfelt
sympathy to his family.
NEWCASTLE UNI LIFEAlanna Begley & Lauren Lane give an insight into the academic opportunities in NSW
Thank you and good luck THE DHAA WOULD like to thank Patricia Chan for her
invaluable contribution and service to the DHAA.
Patricia has supported our Association for many
years. She has served the past three National Councils
in their communications; assisted with the smooth
running of National Symposiums and has been our
ever reliable “go to” person. Her tireless dedication and
attention to detail plus her knowledge and contacts
have helped shape the Association we know today.
Patricia made an impact on everyone she met. Her warmth and smile was
infectious. She was always on hand to help. We will all miss her but wish her
the best in her future endeavours.
8
The Great Age Debate Ageing is inevitable – despite our
endeavours to stay youthful. You may try the latest anti-
wrinkle cream or anti-oxidant rich foods, but you can’t really “turn back the hands of time.”
Enjoying a good quality of life as we enter our golden years is imperative. For those of us eventually needing more assistance, residential aged care
facilities (RACFs) should provide us with this same good quality of life.
The projections of population ageing have been predicted to have implications not just for Australia but internationally as well. In the last 20 years, the Australian Bureau of Statistics reports the proportion of the Australians aged 65 years and over has increased from 11.8% in 1994 to
Joanna Mohammadi explores the dental hygiene dilemma created by an ageing population
COVER STORY
9
10
14.7% in 2014 1. This group is predicted to increase rapidly as the baby boomers age. More people are living for longer with more comorbidities thanks to advancements in medicine, which in turn has ramifications on oral health. Furthermore, in the same period the number of people aged over 85 years has increased by 153% and people aged over 100 years has increased by 263% compared with a total population growth of 32% over the same period 1.
Many dental professionals believe that the majority of residents in aged care facilities don’t have their natural teeth. However, it is quite the contrary in that more than half the residents entering registered aged care facilities now are partially dentate with an average of 12 teeth each. 2 & 3 These figures will increase as better oral health, advancements in dentistry and fluoridation of water supplies has assisted people in retaining their teeth for longer. Xerostomia, root caries, periodontal infections and ulcers/sore spots from broken teeth/ill-fitting dentures are the most common issues experienced by residents.
For hygienists, the implications of ageing in the mouth is significant. Especially as there is a heightened need to prevent dental disease in this vulnerable population group. A combination of decreased salivary flow and dexterity, systemic conditions and dietary changes impacts on the caries and periodontal disease
prevalence in this group.The literature shows, sadly oral
hygiene is of a poor standard in the majority of aged care facilities. Plaque scores are rocket high with most of the residents not having either the cognitive ability nor the assistance or tools required to perform such a basic task as brushing their teeth or dentures!
For the majority of aged care nurses there is a reluctance to provide oral care. Some aged care nurses get queasy at the thought of looking into someone’s dirty mouth but deal daily with urinary and faecal incontinence? Furthermore, the demands of feeding, toileting, showering, and making beds will often take precedence over oral hygiene care.
It is known that most nursing homes are aware of the poor condition of their resident’s teeth however, dental care for residents is limited with regular access to a visiting dental professional non-existent in most facilities. This is a major concern for staff and family trying to access oral health services for the residents. A minority of residents who are both mobile and have a family member willing to take them to their dental appointments can access dental care. However, the other residents needing to access dental care often aren’t able to receive it.
Most nursing homes state they conduct a dental assessment for residents on admission to an aged
Kosta CotsonisHammondCare Aged Care Facility
KOSTA IS AN Oral Health Therapist
working in both a private dental
practice and at HammondCare
Aged Care Facility.
He was initially appointed to
develop an oral health promotion
and student placement program
with the University of Sydney.
Kosta has been involved with
HammondCare since the beginning
of 2012. He is currently only working
at the Hammondville facility one day
a week with the official title “Oral
Health Officer”
Kosta is responsible for educating
the aged care staff about oral health,
detecting and preventing oral health
issues in residents and providing
advice on clinical treatment and
management of dental issues.
Kosta’s key focus is to “manage the
disease and look for ways to prevent
it from occurring in the first place.”
The Great Age Debate
11
“ Many dental professionals believe that the majority of residents in aged care facilities don’t have their natural teeth. However, it is quite the contrary in that more than half the residents entering registered aged care facilities now are partially dentate with an average of 12 teeth each.”
12
1.Australian Bureau of Statistics.
Feature Article: Population by Age and
Sex, Australia, States and Territories
Canberra, ACT2014 [updated
17 December 2014; cited 2015 8
February].
2.NSW Health. Hunter New England
Area Health Service (HNEAHS). Resi-
dental Program. Improving primary
health care in local communities. 2012.
Available from: www.health.nsw.gov.
au/innovation/Documents/posters/
Improving%20Primary%20Care%20
-%20Resi-DENTAL.pdf
3.Australian Institute of Health and
Welfare (AIHW). Dementia in Australia.
care facility and review them periodically. This is usually performed by a RN or GP who have limited oral health knowledge. Ideally this assessment should be conducted by an oral health professional such as a Dentist, Dental Hygienist or Oral Health Therapist. A holistic multi-disciplinary approach to health care for residents entering into aged care homes is essential.
We are seeing a slow but gradual change in the utilisation of dental hygienists in aged care facilities. Jayne is employed by Montefiore, Kosta is employed at HammondCare, and another hygienist and I have been employed by Riviera Health to service their five aged care facilities. Dental
Hygienists and Oral Health Therapists are being employed by aged care facilities to provide preventative oral health care and develop referral pathways for dental treatment.
If our goal as dental hygienists is to improve the oral health of people in our community why aren’t more of us approaching aged care facilities and developing rapport with them? Dental hygienists are qualified oral health professionals who are specifically trained to develop individualised oral health care plans and preventative programs to reduce oral health disease in our community. As hygienists we must advocate for a model of successful ageing in geriatric dentistry. n
Jayne BraunsteinerMontefiore Aged Care Facility
JAYNE HAS WORKED in the oral
health industry for the past 30 years.
She started her career as a dental
therapist and is currently employed
as a dental hygienist by Montefiore
aged care facility.
Montefiore has a dedicated
dental room onsite at their facility.
A contribution of $1 per day per
resident covers the cost for two
hygiene appointments per year. A
dentist also visits the facility and
provides dental treatment when
required.
Jayne is an inspiration to all
hygienists wanting to get involved
in aged care.
“ For hygienists, the implications of ageing in the mouth is significant. Especially as there is a heightened need to prevent dental disease in this vulnerable population group.”
13
ORAL HEALTH FOR our elderly in residential
aged care needs a team approach.
Dr Janet Wallace is an oral health therapist/
lecturer at the University of Newcastle (UON),
with extensive experience in clinical practice,
clinical management, tertiary teaching,
health promotion and more recently she has
developed a research interest in the oral health
of the elderly. In 2009, she implemented a
final year dental hygiene student placement
program in 17 residential aged care facilities on
the NSW Central Coast.
Since then, students from the UON, Bachelor
of Oral Health program have attended these
placements providing the staff and residents
with oral health promotion information and
education sessions. The placement program
provides students with a ‘real life’ learning
opportunity to provide oral health care for
those frail and elderly residents who require
assistance to maintain their own oral health.
The student placement program has
been evaluated and published over the last
five years identifying a number of positive
learning outcomes for students; in addition the
evaluations incidentally highlighted a deficit
in the provision of appropriate preventive oral
hygiene care for residents living in the facilities.
As a result of the findings, Janet developed a
new ‘model of care’ to provide preventive oral
hygiene care for residents’ in five residential
aged care facilities on the NSW, Central Coast.
Janet secured a $100,000 grant from NSW
Medicare Local, Erina to test the ‘model of care’,
by place a qualified dental hygienist in the five
facilities to provide oral health risk assessments,
oral health care plans and referral pathways for
the residents to see dentists and prosthetists.
This research program known as ‘Senior
Smiles’, has been very successful. The program
has provided preventive and restoration
treatment for residents in a timely manner.
Residents have received on-site preventive
care from the dental hygienist and have had
their dental needs managed by the local health
district public clinic and a local private dental
practice. Prior to the ‘Senior Smiles’ program
these oral health services were not available to
the residents.
The ‘Senior Smiles’ model of care provides an
embedded oral health focus within the facilities,
continuity of preventive oral health care for
residents and professional support between
prevention and the need for more complex
dental care. Janet is committed to establishing
this ‘model of care’ in residential aged care
facilities and has been working with Mrs Karen
Sleishman, the coordinator of community
aged care oral health program ‘ResiDental’, to
promote the benefits of these two programs.
Karen and Janet feel the ‘Senior Smiles’
program supports the ‘ResiDental’ program by
providing the visiting dentists with an insider’s
knowledge of the resident’s needs.
Janet feels the dental hygienist and oral
health therapist have a positive role to play in
the residential aged care environment. She
says ‘They have the knowledge and skills to
address the residents preventive oral health
needs and the ability to identify when residents
need more complex dental care and require
referral. Janet said ‘Developing collaborative
relationships with local dentists who are
sympathetic to the needs of older people in
the facilities is an important part of the success
of the ‘Senior Smiles’ program’. She said
‘To improve the oral health of our elderly in
residential aged care we need a team
approach and I am committed to making
that happen’. n
Encouraging a team approachOral Health Therapist, Dr Janet Wallace, is pushing hard for better facilities for elederly dental hygiene
The Great Age Debate
14
DHAA National Symposium Overview
YOUR DHAA:
SUPPORTING RESEARCH
The Dental Hygienists’ Association of Australia introduced the Dental Hygiene Research Fund (DHRF) in 2011, for the members of the association.
The objective of the fund is to provide better dentistry support for both the leadership and professional development of dental hygienists within the dental profession.
The DHRF is a great opportunity for members of the DHAA undertaking research to fund their projects, enhance their careers, increase their personal and professional networks and add value to the profession in ways that may not otherwise have been possible.
The inaugural recipient of the DHRF was Dr Melanie Hayes, who is now the National President of the Dental Hygienists’ Association of Australia.
The DHRF supported Dr Hayes’ PhD research that explored the use of loupes on musculoskeletal disorders among dental hygienists. Dr Hayes was subsequently awarded her PhD in 2013.
The following year saw Carol Tran, Lecturer in Oral Health from the
School of Dentistry, The University of Queensland, receive the grant in support of her research into the ‘Association between Plaque Micro-Environments and Dental Caries Risk’. Since being awarded the grant her research has progressed significantly as Carol explains; “The patient data at this stage has been collected, all clinical photos have been documented, we have learnt that the CRT kits are not sensitive enough to grow caries related bacteria in isolation without saliva.
“The University of Queensland are in the progress of setting up a new laboratory, upon this the completion of this set up we will be completing analysis of the bacterial profile of the frozen saliva samples we have collected from each patient via PCR.”
Meloshini Naicker, currently a Phd student was awarded the grant last year for her research surrounding perioscopy. “Perioscopy was introduced in the USA in 2001. However, it is a relatively new concept in Australia.” explains Meloshini.
“It is a non-invasive method that allows clinicians to visualise the subgingival environment and clean out
Yvonne Flaskas takes a look at DHAA’s Dental Hygiene Research Fund
“ The DHRF is a great opportunity for members of the DHAA undertaking research to fund their projects, enhance their careers, increase their personal and professional networks and add value to the profession in ways that may not otherwise have been possible.”
15
YOUR DHAA:
SUPPORTING RESEARCH
FROM THESE EXAMPLES it’s plain to see the huge advantages of the DHRF for those looking for research support.
A grant, up to the value of $3000, can be paid to any one recipient for a one year period. However, there may be multiple recipients and alternative funding may be received from other sources for the project.
Ethics approval for the research project is required prior to the payment of the grant recipient or institution and ongoing funding for continuation of the same research will require another application.
Basic criteria to be eligible to receive a grant from the DHRF are as follows:
• Any graduated clinician who is a member of the DHAA Ltd. and who has Research support from a University.
• Any University academic who is working with Dental Hygiene or BOH programs.
• Any applicant must be a member of the DHAA Ltd.
Once these basic criteria have been satisfied an Advisory Panel of three will
assess each research application based on set criteria.
The applications will be assessed on the following basis and have a higher weighting on ‘Scientific Quality.’
• Scientific quality: this includes clarity of the hypothesis or research objectives, the strengths and weaknesses of the design and feasibility.
• Significance and Innovation: potential to increase knowledge about human health; the application of new ideas, procedures, technology to program or health policy setting; important topics that will positively impact human health.
• Track record of investigators: the applicant / team must have the experience and support necessary to deliver the research
• Appropriateness of the budget • Feasibility of the time frame
Applications for the DHRF are now open and application forms are available for download from the
member’s area at www.dhaa.info
HOW TO APPLY FOR THE RESEARCH FUNDthe root surface in a very conservative and minimally invasive way.”
For Meloshini’s research project, the DHAA Research grant will assist by enabling the purchase of products and equipment such as the bacterial sampling kits from Hain Lifesciences in Germany and the endoscope sheaths required for each participant.
“The grant allows us the opportunity to perform all clinical tests and treatment on participants in a cost-effective way with minimal costs to participants.”
Meloshini’s research project is titled ‘Non-surgical treatment of periodontal disease utilising the perioscope (endoscope) versus -traditional scaling and root planning’ and recruitment of participants will occur from March 2015.
Thanks to Dr Melanie Hayes, Carol Tran and Meloshini Naiker for their valued contribution to this article. Note: All information regarding the DHRF has been sourced from the Dental Hygienists Association Research Fund Brochure, DHAA Ltd 2012. To view the brochure please visit https://members.dhaa.asn.au.
16
Tooth decay has a profound impact on a child’s quality of life. Children experience dental pain and infection which impacts on their physical growth and
cognitive development and lowers their self-esteem. Research shows that poor oral health and toothache can put children at a serious disadvantage in school. Oral health problems are a significant factor in school absences. Toothache restricts a child’s participation at school and impacts on their academic performance, leading to lower school grades.
The Carevan Sun Smiles program was launched in June 2012, out of a growing concern for the oral health of primary school children in the Hume region of Australia. The program is delivered free to all primary schools and community groups who participate.
The Carevan Sun Smiles Program is a multi-strategy, oral health promotion and decay prevention program; incorporating strategies from the Victorian Department of Health’s ‘Action plan for oral health promotion 2013-17’.
The program includes three key components which are integrated within the World Health Organisation’s Health Promoting Schools Framework:
1. Oral health promotion Oral health education and skills development, focused on nutrition and twice daily toothbrushing with Colgate fluoride toothpaste. The program engages children through oral health puppetry.
Puppets are a powerful tool in health education, particularly for children with low literacy. Puppets provide visual and kinetic (touch) learning experiences. German research (Makuch & Reschke 2001) shows
PRODUCT
REVIEW
THE DHAA NATIONAL BULLETIN prides itself on keeping members up to date with information regarding our profession including CPD events, scope of practice and issues which affect our day to day practice; so why not extend this to the equipment we use in our day to day practice?
This regular section aims to review the latest technology or equipment available to dental practitioners to help clinicians make informed choices when it comes to using the right equipment.
If you use interesting equipment or the latest technology in your workplace, we would like to hear from you! Feel free to write a product review for this segment. You can write your own review or contact the editorial team of the bulletin to be emailed the template which you can fill in.
To submit a review or enquire about the template please email [email protected].
We look forward to hearing about some interesting equipment you are all using!
PRODUCT
SoproLIFE intra-oral camera MANUFACTURER
ACTEON
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
SoproLIFE by ACTEON intra-oral camera was connected to a tray table on an AIDEC chair.
FEATURES
n Fluorescence technology n Uses differing colours to represent
plaque, calculus, gingival inflammation and caries.
I like the SoproLIFE by ACTEON intra-oral camera because I can show patients before-and-after images. This way, patients can clearly see the treatment they have received. I store all the images from the camera into our Oasis software. The camera is connected to an LCD TV which is also connected to my chair so the patient has a very clear view.
Finally, with litigation becoming a major issue for our profession, I feel much more confident in my treatment having intra-oral photographs to complement my clinical notes and radiographs.
PROS
The intra-oral camera is an excellent
educational tool as a picture speaks a
thousand words.
Patients mainly treat what they can
see, and understand. Using the intra-
oral camera is another way to build
trust by making the patient an active
participant in their own treatment.
I use the camera with all of
my patients, from adults to
children. It gives patients a deeper
understanding of what is happening
in their mouths
It is useful to take photos of deep
fissure systems to discuss fissure
sealants with parents.
Also photos of areas of gingival
recession are useful to discuss
gingival and periodontal health.
This often helps patients to be more
proactive and better understand
their treatment options.
CONS
The SoproLIFE by ACTEON intra-
oral camera does take a bit of
practice to be able to comfortably
navigate around the mouth and focus
your angulations correctly.
The Sopro’s illumination comes
from an LED light so you have to
remember to always turn off the
overhead light, otherwise you will
have a false colour image.
Also the Sopro is fragile and needs
to be handled with care - no bumps
or dropping the camera!
SMILE YOU’RE ON CAMERAAshleigh Wheeler discusses her intra-oral camera
17
SMILE YOU’RE ON CAMERAAshleigh Wheeler discusses her intra-oral camera
A simple explanation as to how the SoproLIFE works, and some examples of the imagery that it can produce to support your diagnosis and documentation
18
IT’S ALLGOINGON INTHEWEST
SATURDAY 18 OCTOBER, 2014
“It starts with us” - Joint Professional Development DayREPORT – RHONDA KREMMER
The ADOHTA WA and DHAA WA joined together for the first time to present a conference at the University Club WA to over 150 delegates.
The presenters included; Dr Sharon Liberali, a Dentist from South Australia, who spoke on the management of the special needs patient for dental hygienists; Ms Bree Jones, an Oral Health Therapist from Victoria, discussed local anaesthetic, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, contraindications and successful failures; Dr John Camacho, a Paediatric Dentist from Western Australia, presented ‘What’s new in Paediatric Dentistry?’; Periodontist Dr Sven Knoepel, also from Western Australia, highlighted juvenile periodontal conditions. Finally, Dr Merrilyn Hooley, a Dental Therapist and Psychologist from Victoria, discussed pain, perception and behavior, and how to deal with difficult people.
We received positive feedback about the conference’s content, venue trade displays and food. Guest speakers were well looked after and were excited to speak again.
We would like to thank everyone who contributed to make the day a great success; including the key organisers; Hellene Platell – ADOHTA National Councillor; Rhonda Kremmer, – DHAA WA National Councillor; Emily See – Immediate Past President of DHAA WA; Presidents Robyn McBeth ADOHTA WA and Natasha Hunt DHAA WA, and also Sheron Bates Treasurer for ADOHTA WA.
Both associations successfully worked together to achieve the prevention of oral disease in Australia.
Three big events in the space of a month – a great effort from DHAA WA
A great attendance at the joint professional development day
19
FRIDAY 28TH NOVEMBER 2014
DHAA WA – 10th Anniversary CelebrationREPORT – NATASHA HUNT
OUR BRANCH HOSTED a sundowner evening to celebrate 10 years of DHAA WA. The evening was attended by many of the past and present committee and general membership. We also welcomed dental professionals and oral health colleagues who have been long standing supporters of the DHAA WA. It was a great opportunity to reflect on the valuable contribution given by past committee members and celebrate the present success we enjoy with our current energetic team.
DHAA WA works hard to provide opportunities for relevant professional development and to develop a collegial network through special interest groups and through active affiliation all other dental professionals.
As we look to the future our current committee invites all members to embrace the challenge to promote and develop the specialized role of dental hygiene practice as a health team link within the dental profession.
Congratulations and thanks to all the DHAA WA past executive and committee members. The ten year milestone is a great achievement!
SUNDAY 19 OCTOBER, 2014
WA Children’s Week Family Fun Day REPORT – WENDY WRIGHT
DHAA WA WAS invited again to join over 30 Family and Children’s Services agencies at the opening event for WA Children’s Week at Whiteman Park. The theme was health and nutrition and all participants contributed with activities relating to the health message supporting the “Go for 2&5” initiative. This was our second year to present an interactive program of oral health activities targeting young children and parents. We set up a hands-on tooth brushing activity, dietary education games, educational colouring-in activity plus a parent information table.
Our stand attracted great interest from public who were families from diverse cultural and socio-economic backgrounds. Despite un-seasonal rain we had a constant flow of children of all ages eager to participate and engage with us. Parents were eager for additional information and answers to a variety of questions such as hidden sugars in foods and drinks, correct tooth brushing techniques and toothpastes and when to take a child for the first visit to the dentist.
The parent education table was
supported with relevant educational brochure materials supplied by WA Dental Health Services along with questionnaires to reinforce learning.
We acknowledge the great support we received from our sponsors.
Colgate supplied us with 200 gift bags containing toothbrush and paste for those who fully participated in our educational activities.
Oral-B generously supplied adult and girl/boy electric toothbrushes as prizes for raffle entry on completion of questionnaires, quizzes and colouring in oral health pictures.
DHAA WA committee gives special thanks to our enthusiastic 2nd and 3rd year Oral Health Therapy students from Curtin University who eagerly volunteered as “toothfairies” and helped out on every stand. Their professionalism when delivering oral health education messages and natural rapport with young children and parents was outstanding! It was great they could join with us for this important community health promotion project that reaches 8-10,000 families each year.
A 10th anniversary means party time for the boys and girls of WA
STATE NATIONTHE NSW DHAA BRANCH would like to thank its members by attending any of the four General Meetings we held last year.
2014 was an eventful year with the beginning of the transition to the National Entity and the start of the new Executive Officer for the National DHAA, Chris Wain.
We would like to express many thanks to Patricia Chan who finished her role as National Administrator for the association in particular assisting the NSW Branch with her wealth of knowledge.
In our final AGM last year which was a great social event for members with a fantastic dinner; we were lucky enough to have Cliff Spong speak to us. Cliff, who worked for the Therapeutic Goods Administration for 12 years, presented “A Brief Introduction to the Regulation of Medical Technology and How it Could Affect your Practice.” He discussed the medical devices regulatory program and his specialty in advising medical technology companies supplying products in Oz.
We would like to congratulate Mary Frei who was presented with her Life Member Certificate and to the newly elected
NSW Committee for 2015 especially Simona Safar as Treasurer, Ashleigh Wheeler as Secretary and Angelee Murdoch as Vice-President.
On behalf of our president Nik Karadoukas, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our volunteers who have made the NSW branch of the DHAA successful, in particular our departing committee members; Briony Bissett – our treasurer for the last three years, Kim Ryan – our past secretary and Salo Udayen – CPD committee member. We’re sad to see you go but the association would like to thank you for your committed service and wish you all the best in the future.
I would also like to remind DHAA members, particularly
NSW members, to mark 5-7 November 2015 in your diaries. This is the date of the DHAA National Symposium that’s hitting Sydney’s glamourous Star casino.
Please keep an eye open on all the website and social media for when the registration opens. Do not leave the opportunity to register early to get the discounted fees. Also there will be some workshops offered but you will need to book early for those as these will be limited numbers attending these.
I hope to see you all on this grand occasion where we will be all Under One Umbrella.
Ashleigh WheelerNSW secretary and CPD committee member
A full state-by-state run-down of Association happenings around the country
“ We would like to express many thanks to Patricia Chan who finished her role as National Administrator for the association in particular assisting the NSW Branch with her wealth of knowledge. ”
New South Wales
WEBSITE
dhaansw.org.au >
CONTACT
0411 473 762
Memebers of the DHAA NSW a their AGM late last year
21
DHAAQ COMMITTEE started the New Year with our first official meeting; on the 31 January to plan our events for 2015.We are very fortunate that many of our current committee members have decided to continue their roles into 2015. We welcomed new team members Tiana Romeo and Lizzy Stenhouse who will be taking on roles within the CPD committee. There are also two new members from our rural community who were unable to make this meeting; Shelley Barwick is our CQU Liaison and Karen Smart is our Rural Support Liaison. We will continue our support of rural
and regional members and CQU Oral Health students with the involvement of these two fantastic ladies.
The DHAAQ theme for 2015 is Engagement- Engaging members, communities and Allied Health Professionals.
Planning is full swing for our events, Please Set aside these dates for the year ahead.
• Homeless Connect – 20 May - Eagle Farm
• Hygiene Horizon Full Day - Saturday 25 July – Gold Coast Convention Centre
• DHAAQ Half Day Seminar- including CPR and AGM Saturday 24 October – Brisbane
As you are aware, DHAA recently held a special meeting, during our National Symposium in Canberra last November, to vote on the special resolution:
“To transfer registration of The Dental Hygienists’ Association of Australia from the South Australian Associations Incorporation Act to the Commonwealth Corporations Act as a Public Company Limited by Guarantee and to accept the proposed new constitution.”
The result of the vote was a ‘Yes’ to accept the special resolution.
Queensland members went again to the poll on the 21 February to decide whether or not to join the new DHAA Ltd. Numerous members braved the wet weather and voted unanimous YES!
The DHAAQ Committee would also like take the time to invite all our interstate members to join us at our CPD events in 2015. The water is quite warm at the moment!!
Robbern WhiteDHAAQ President
“ Queensland members went again to the poll on the 21 February to decide whether or not to join the new DHAA Ltd. Numerous members braved the wet weather and voted unanimous YES!
Queensland
WEBSITE
dentalhygienist.com.au >
CONTACT
Email Queensland >
Members of the DHAAQ committee have agreed to continue their roles
“ This agreement will see the construction of a new 90-chair dental clinic within the University of Adelaide’s proposed clinical building to be situated at the SA Health and Biomedical Precinct. Expected to open in July 2017, the new clinic will sit alongside the new Royal Adelaide Hospital and SAHMRI.”
THE LAST FEW months have seen some of the hard working people in the South Australian dental industry receive awards for their dedication and research.
Margie Steffens and Joanna Mohammadi attended the ASSCID (Australian Society of Special Needs in Dentistry) conference in November in Newcastle, where an international audience of over 200 delegates was present.
Margie Steffens received the first-place award for her presentation: “Pilot study: Community Outreach dental program in Nursing Homes-Inter professional care, an obligation not an option”.
Joanna Mohammadi received second-place for her topic “Senior Smiles. Oral health in residential aged care facilities: the hygienist’s role.”
Margie Steffens and Josh Galpin both received service awards at the National Symposium, in Canberra on the 13th,14th and 15th November 2014, in recognition of service to the Association and Community.
In great news for the future of dental studies in South Australia the State Government has announced a new partnership agreement with the University of Adelaide to secure an integrated public dental service and dental school for the next 30 years.
This agreement will see the construction of a new 90-chair dental clinic within the University of Adelaide’s proposed clinical building to be situated at the SA Health and Biomedical Precinct. Expected to open in July 2017, the new clinic will sit alongside the new Royal Adelaide Hospital and SAHMRI.
As part of the new agreement the practicing hours will increase to cater for public demand and dental student clinical placements will run for 48 weeks of the year. There is also an option to increase capacity further by making the dental chairs available either after hours or
on weekends in the future.The agreement also
includes the provision of two new dental scholarships to encourage students to train in rural areas and consider future employment opportunities in country locations.
I am looking forward to my second year as the President of the DHAA SA Branch and seeing the progression towards a single entity. We have some great things to look forward to as an association and a profession and it is exciting to a part of the process.
The start of the year is always a busy time for South Australia with our first two events only weeks apart, presentations to students and membership drives, plus planning for the year ahead.
I would like to sincerely thank our outgoing executive for their hard work and dedication. Lisa Mular has committed three years to the association as our state secretary and Louise Edwards has spent 12 months throwing herself into the Vice President role. The SA executive will miss their knowledge and expertise.
Tracey HermanDHAA SA President
South Australia
WEBSITE
dhaasa.asn.au >
CONTACT
Email South Australia >
23
HERE IN TASMANIA we have voted to eagerly go to the National Association model. We are in a caretaker mode with Tasmanian branch positions until all the transfer details are clear and we formally vote as per our constitution. So the Tasmanian branch is very much steady as she goes!
We are working more closely with our local
ADA and ADOHTA CPD organisers to make education opportunities that can be shared; with two great days already on the calendar as CPD options for our members!
Tassie is a current travel hotspot for a weekend away and we are planning our next big CPD event so keep an eye out for more details soon. We would love to see you in our sparkling State.
Our current Executive for the Tasmanian branch is as follows.
President: Linda ThomasSecretary: Danielle Gibbens/ Linda ThomasTreasurer; Alyson McKinlay/ Linda ThomasNational:Danielle GibbensCheers to and exciting year
with our associations!
Linda Thomas President
SINCE MY LAST report in December, there have been a couple of changes to our CPD team. Unfortunately, due to personal commitments, Neill Cullen is no longer able to continue in his role as CPD coordinator. We are sorry to lose Neill and wish him all the very best for 2015 and beyond.
We are delighted to be able to welcome Deb Hume back onto the DHAAVB team. Her experience and passion for dental hygiene will be valuable assets in planning and coordinating our CPD events.
On the 18th January, the DHAAVB Executive and Committee members held a strategic planning session in the city. I would like to thank our association team for their hard work and dedication, and especially for giving up their Sunday to attend.
Our planned CPD activities for 2015 are:
25th March – dinner meet16th May –Half-day25th July – Half-day28th November –
AGM and Half-dayIn addition to these
DHAAVB events, DHAANSW will be hosting the 2015
National Symposium in Sydney from 4-8 November. This promises to be an exciting event and one that shouldn’t be missed! Also, the ADOHTA International Conference will be taking place in the Hilton on the Park, Melbourne from 10-12 September. This event will be celebrating 50 years of Dental Therapy in Australia.
Thank you for your continued support of our professional association. We look forward to seeing you all over the coming months.
Roisin McGrathPresident - DHAAVB
“ The DHAANSW will be hosting the 2015 National Symposium in Sydney from 4-8 November. This promises to be an exciting event and one that shouldn’t be missed!”
“ Tassie is a travel hotspot for a weekend away – we are planning our next big CPD event – keep an eye out for more details soon. We would love to see you in our sparkling State.”
Victoria
WEBSITE
dhaavb.com.au >
CONTACT
0418 336 119
Tasmania
CONTACT
0419 712 512
“ DHAA WA is continuing it’s support of Curtin University, awarding a prize for the student demonstrating the most improved performance on the Oral Health Therapy Course.“
JANUARY AND FEBRUARY have already flown by, and most of us are back doing the work we love.
It is only a few months since our last bulletin and already much is underway.
Recently we hosted a wonderful “10 Years of DHAA WA” Sundowner celebration (see page 19). Also featured is Rhonda Kremmer’s report on the highly successful Joint ADOHTA WA/DHAA WA Seminar that was held in October.
We are in the process of confirming our CPD events for 2015, and will E-blast these to our members as soon as they are confirmed. Please also check our website, and Facebook, for updates.
This year we will continue our relationship with 3M/Dental ED, and in response to member’s requests, will be providing more “back to basics” sessions.
We had an LA update on 5 February, as well as the very important CPR/Basic First
Aid, on 26 February.DHAA WA is continuing it’s
support of Curtin University, awarding a prize for the student demonstrating the most improved performance on the Oral Health Therapy Course. The award recognises the importance of assisting new graduates and promotes the DHAA to people starting-out in our profession in an increasingly competitive environment.
Natasha HuntWA President
Western Australia
WEBSITE
dhaawa.com >
CONTACT
0449 910 455
The official newsletter of the DHAA Inc
Issue 34 March-April 2015
STATE OF THE NATION A round-up of what’s happening near you
The great age debate As the population ages what is being done about their teeth
Page xx
The official newsletter of the Dental Hygienists’ Association of Australia Inc.
DHAA RESEARCH FUND Now’s the time to get your submissions in UP CLOSE & DENTAL We review the handy intra-oral camera from SoproLIFE
Promote your event or product to the Dental Hygienist community. To get yourself into the next edition of the new digital Bulletin send your enquiry to Yvone Flaskas
Get your message heard.
The 2015 CPD Events calendar is already filling up. Full details at www.dhaainfo/events
MONTH DATE/TIME EVENT VENUE
MAR 2015
4 March 6:00pm
Mastering your risk Hotel Jan, Brisbane
5 March 6:00pm
Mastering adverse outcomes ADA House, Perth
5 March 6:00pm
Mastering consent and decision making Vibe Hotel, Sydney
10 March 6:00pm
Mastering your risk ADA House, Perth
13 March 2:00pm
Mastering your risk Hotel Grand Chancellor, Melbourne
13 March 8:30am - 5:00pm
Pulpotomies and Stainless Steel Crowns in the Primary Dentition
"ADAQ CPD & Training Centre 26-28 Hamilton Place, Bowen Hills
13 March 8:30am - 4:30pm
Medical Emergencies in Dental Practice Level 7 Conference Room, Ingkarni Wardli Building, University of Adelaide Campus, North Terrace, Adelaide.
14 March 9:00am
Mastering adverse outcomes Mercure Grosvenor, Adelaide
14 March 2:00pm
Mastering difficult interactions Mercure Grosvenor, Adelaide
19 March 08:30am - 5:00pm
Medical Emergencies in the Dental Practice ADAVB Meeting Rooms, Level 3, 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra.
Thursday 19 6:00pm
Mastering your risk Waterfront Hotel, Maroochydore
20 March 09:00am - 5:00pm
Primary Dentition Workshop Straumann Training Centre, Port Melbourne
21 March 8.30am - 12.30pm,
"Sliding Doors Seminar Series” The Spotted Cow, 296 Ruthven Street, Toowoomba QLD 4350
25 -29 March 8:00am - 5:00pm
36th Australian Dental Congress Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre, Queensland Australia
APR 2015
22 April 6:00pm
Mastering your risk Vibe Hotel, Sydney
22 April 6:00pm
Mastering adverse outcomes Hotel Jan, Brisbane
23 April 6:00pm
Mastering difficult interactions Holiday Inn, Parramatta
24 April 8:30am - 5:00pm
The Basics of Clinical Photography Centre for Professional Development - Lithgow Street St Leonards, NSW
29 April 6:00pm
Mastering consent and decision making ADA House, Perth
30 April 09:00am - 5:00pm
Clinical Photography The Melbourne Oral Health and Training Centre, 123 Swanston Street, Carlton.
MAY 2015
1 May 2:00 - 5:30pm
Removable prosthetics ADAVB Meeting Rooms, Level 3, 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra.
8 May 2:00pm
Mastering consent and decision making Hotel Grand Chancellor, Melbourne
May 2015 2:00pm
Mastering consent and decision making Hotel Grand Chancellor, Hobart
15 May 8:30am - 5:00pm
Periodontal Therapy Centre for Professional Development - 71-73 Lithgow Street St Leonards, NSW
Planner
Key to the state colours
Please email us if you have an event that you want to be included in the calendar
n ACT n New South Wales
n Queensland
n South Australia
n Tasmania n Victoria
n Western Australia
MONTH DATE/TIME EVENT VENUE
MAY 2015
20 May 6:00pm
Mastering consent and decision making Hotel Jan, Brisbane
22 May 1:30pm - 5:00pm
Modern Mouthguards - Providing Protection for Your Patients - Afternoon Workshop
Centre for Professional Development - 71-73 Lithgow Street St Leonards, NSW
30 May 9:00am - 5:00pm
Anxiety Relief in Dentistry Chisholm Dental Surgery. 3/72 Halley Street, Chisholm
30 May 9:00m
Mastering consent and decision making Vibe Hotel, Sydney
30 May 2:00pm
Mastering adverse outcomes Vibe Hotel, Sydney
JUN 2015
3 June 6:00pm
Mastering adverse outcomes Travelodge, Newcastle
3 June 6:00pm
Mastering difficult interactions ADA House, Perth
13 June 9:30am - 1:00pm
Early clinical essentials: Risk Management Day ADAVB Meeting Rooms, Level 3, 10 Yarra Street, South Yarra.
13 June 2:00pm
Mastering consent and decision making Hotel Grand Chancellor, Melbourne
13 June 2015, 2:00pm
Mastering consent and decision making ADA House, Perth
15-17 June 9:00am - 5:00pm
Local Analgesia for Therapists and Hygienists Melbourne Dental School, 720 Swanston Street, Carlton 3053
20 June 2:00pm
Mastering difficult interactions Hotel Grand Chancellor, Melbourne
20 June 8.30 am – 5.00pm
Paediatric Pulptomies & Stainless Steel Crowns
Dental Simulation Clinic, University of Adelaide, North Terrace Campus, Adelaide
23-24 June 9:00am - 5:00pm
Management of tooth wear Oral Health Training Education Centre (MOHTEC), 723 Swanston St Melbourne
SEP 2015
4 September 8.30 am – 4.30pm
First Aid and CPR for Dental Personnel Level 7 Conference Room, Ingkarni Wardli Building, University of Adelaide
19 September 8.30am - 5.00pm
Periodontal Instrumentation Workshop Dental Simulation Clinic, University of Adelaide, North Terrace Campus, Adelaide
NOV 2015
5-7 November 8.30am - 5.00pm
DHAA National Symposium 2015 The Star Casino, Pyrmont, Sydney
Planner continued...
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