Dental hygienist Shaun Howe and dental hygienist and therapist Amanda Gallie were thrilled to be invited to present a series of workshops both to other dental care professionals (DCPs) and to recently qualified dentists at this year's British Dental Conference and Exhibition in London.

The workshops, 'May the force be with you ... de-mystifying periodontal assessment (screenings)', were fully booked months in advance and over-subscribed and saw a wide range of practitioners from all areas of practice in attendance.

The sessions explored probing the gingivae while carrying out periodontal charting, its importance in record keeping, calibrating probing force and the use of ultrasonic scalers.

Shaun spoke to Vital about their experience at the event:

'We had some nerves going into the presentations; the normal ones for anyone involved in speaking such as “are my facts correct?” and “will they enjoy it?” but these things soon wash away once the delegates arrive.

'The groups were limited to 15 or so people so that during the hands-on sessions, delegates could receive our individual attention. Too many presentations can be “death by slides” so we tried to keep slides to a minimum and focus on interaction.'

Shaun and Amanda were grateful for the support they received during the conference from the British Dental Association (BDA) and from Optident and EMS. Shaun said: 'Any DCP thinking of making a pitch to present at the Conference can do so with the sound knowledge that they will receive tremendous support in all aspects. Information is provided well in advance and allows the speakers to prepare well and there are many support staff available to help on the day'.

Shaun and Amanda also took the time to join the celebration for Vital's tenth anniversary on the BDJ/Vital stand where Shaun met fellow members of the Vital Reader Panel.