Community Dental Services CIC (CDS) has welcomed its first group of Outreach Dental Hygiene and Therapy Students from the University of Sheffield, in a new pilot project offering students first-hand insight into the world of community dentistry.

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The outreach scheme allows students to get hands-on experience outside of the dental school, in approved and supported environments. Beyond clinical skills, the students gained an understanding of the unique nature of community dental care and supporting patients with additional needs. A highlight of the placement includes attending a General Anaesthetic (GA) session at Derbyshire Children's Hospital, offering invaluable exposure to both the clinical process and the way such experiences can impact families.

Martyn Waddington, Associate Operations Director for CDS's Derbyshire service who hosted the students, said: This initiative has been an exciting opportunity for our CDS team to share their expertise, promote the rewards of a career in community dentistry, and demonstrate the vital role our service plays within local communities. The 11-week assessed placement offered students real-world experience in providing care to patients assessed as suitable for student treatment. Under close supervision, the students carried out procedures such as scaling and polishing, fluoride applications, fillings in both adult and primary teeth, pre-formed metal crowns, and extractions of baby teeth. They also administered local anaesthetics, took x-rays, and participated in tutorials and case discussions. It has been a pleasure to welcome this cohort of students to CDS and thanks to our team for sharing their valuable experience with them.'

Through the collaboration with the University of Sheffield, CDS is about to welcome its second cohort of students as they work together to shape the future of dental education and patient care.