Basic guide to dental instruments

  • C. Scheller
Blackwell Munksgaard £19.99 ISBN: 1405133791 | ISBN: 1-405-13379-1

Many years ago I met with a member of a publishing house who was visiting dental hospitals in the UK. His remit was to identify whether or not there was a need for a further dental nurse (DN) textbook. My concern, at the time, was that there was no one book which focused on dental instruments. I suggested that there was an opening for such a book. Obviously, no one else was of the same opinion, as this idea was not developed – until now.

The Spotter Test, which forms part of the National Examination for Dental Nurses, is based on instruments that are commonly used by the dental profession. In June 2004, NEBDN issued a list of 100 items, of which the DN candidate would be required to identify 20 as a written Spotter Test. This list appears in the Basic guide to dental instruments manual.

I would have liked to have seen a dedicated chapter grouping these 100 items together in labelled picture form for ease of reference. Sample Spotter Test pictures, with answers at the end of the chapter, would be invaluable for those who plan to sit the National Examination for Dental Nurses. These Spotter Tests could also be used as an adjunct to the Spot it with teamwork video (BDJ/NEBDSA/University of Sheffield 1992).

The items in this manual are indexed under topic headings. Each chapter features comprehensive accounts and pictures, many of which are in colour. This is a vast improvement on the line drawings and black and white illustrations that appear in some textbooks. The items appear more realistic in colour and allow the DN to relate to their surgery instrumentation.

There are sub-headings which name the items, varieties and functions. The idea of ‘false friends’ is good. This could have been developed by showing the items alongside each other, to enable DNs to see items that may be used as ‘distracters’ in the NEBDN Practical Test.

There are some errors in the labelling of instruments, which detracts from a good reference book.

The cost is affordable – BADN members may purchase the book at a reduced rate from Marston Books, on quoting their membership number. The book also fits easily into a handbag or holdall.

I feel that this manual is especially suitable for the following:

  • DNs in rural areas, who cannot access formal training

  • open learning and self directed learning

  • DNs who work in orthodontic practices and are unable to access items used in general dental practice

  • as up-to-date reference material for all dental professionals

  • as training material for staff employed in dental hospital sterilisation departments.

In summary, I welcome this manual as a resource. It is long overdue and will fill a void for many DNs who are currently following a pathway to achieving either the National Examination for DNs or NVQ Level 3 Oral Health Care: Dental Nursing.

Blackwell are pleased to offer this book to Vital readers at a cost of just £18.00 including post and packing (usually £19.99+p&p). To order your copy, telephone 01235 465500 and quote the code 96DTD5330 to claim your discount. Offer available until 31 January 2007.