The ban on dentists with HIV practising dentistry is to be lifted from April 2014, announced the government on August 15th. 

This move by the government, to bring the UK in line with most of its western peers, has been welcomed by professionals throughout the dental industry.

One of the new and exciting extras we are now offering at our dental practice is Plasma Rich in Growth Factors (PRGF).

As stated before, I still nurse from time to time, usually for implant placements, and I have seen first-hand why PRGF offers many benefits. Being able to nurse for the procedure has also given me a great understanding of the different stages involved. During consultations I will explain why we recommend the use of PRGF, and what will happen from start to finish.

Diary of a Treatment Coordinator (TCO) is based on real life stories. The practice and TCO is not mentioned for confidentiality reasons.

The main part of my job is focused on assisting patients in their decision to chose the most appropriate treatment, and to make sure that they fully understand what the treatment will involve, the time frame and costs.

I was a dental nurse prior to becoming a treatment co-ordinator, so I am able to explain different procedures and what will be involved.

Diary of a Treatment Coordinator (TCO) is based on real life stories. The practice and TCO is not mentioned for confidentiality reasons.

One of the most important roles of a Treatment Co-ordinator is to build rapport and trust with patients. A large majority of patients that visit the practice I work for are phobics. To be able to build up trust with someone, especially when they are anxious, can take time. I had one patient who visited me for 2 consultations before she even met one of our dentists.

The General Dental Council (the GDC) has published its recently developed ‘Standards for the Dental Team.’ This is set to replace the GDC’s current Standards Guidelines. The GDC have maintained that all registrants have an individual duty to act professionally in their working environments and also an individual responsibility to follow the ‘Standards for the Dental Team.’