Smile Escapes

Five things AI cannot replace in dentistry—and why clinicians still matter

Artificial intelligence (AI) has seen a rapid surge in popularity and accessibility in dentistry, and more broadly in healthcare. Publicly available AI tools, particularly large language models, have become increasingly integrated into professional and clinical workflows. As of 2024, more than half of healthcare organisations globally reported integrating some form of AI, and both its […]

Progressing while avoiding burnout – the skills no one taught us

It took a health crisis for Poppy Dunton to realise the prevalence of burnout in the dental profession – she explains how this motivated her to ask the questions and teach the skills that no one else will. I didn’t grow up dreaming of a career in dentistry. My work experience fell through and they… 

How can website visitors be converted into patients?

David Nelkin reveals how to build an award-winning dental website that helps to achieve your practice’s aims by attracting patients. What makes a truly exceptional dental website? Not just one that looks pretty, but one that actively drives practice growth and converts visitors into patients.  Let’s be honest, most dental websites are a bit dull.… 

Why oral health is crucial for peak physical performance in extreme conditions

A former Navy combat diver and sniper explains why good oral health is essential for survival when facing extreme conditions. Janne Lehtonen, known from Finnish Special Forces and the Amazing Race reality TV series, has operational experience in NATO missions in Somalia and Afghanistan. He emphasises that oral healths is crucial for maintaining peak physical… 

Two thirds of dental professionals feel guilt over mental health absences

Three quarters of dental professionals said they have continued to work despite a negative impact on their mental health in a new survey. Two thirds (66%) said they feel guilty if they take time off due to mental wellbeing issues, while around half (49%) said they feel they should keep working even when their mental… 

Researchers develop dental floss capable of measuring stress

MEDFORD, Mass., US: Stress can present as a wide range of physical, emotional and social symptoms, such as irritability, headache, anxiety and elevated heart rate. In addition to these manifestations, salivary cortisol serves as a well-established biomarker of physiological stress, reflecting levels found in the bloodstream. Since stress is of a damaging and pervasive nature […]

Qatar University celebrates first dental graduates

DOHA, Qatar: Qatar University has marked a historic milestone with the graduation of the founding cohort from the College of Dental Medicine, the country’s first and so far, only dental school. This achievement represents a significant advancement in Qatar’s ongoing efforts to develop a sustainable, locally trained oral healthcare workforce.  

Clarity Precision Grip Attachments – see what they can do!

Solventum explores the benefits of Clarity Precision Grip Attachments in orthodontic cases, including predictable results, reduced chair time and a better patient experience. Clarity Precision Grip Attachment trays are pre-loaded with 3D-printed and fully cured composite attachments that are optimally shaped and customised to fit each patient’s unique anatomy. They increase the consistency and predictability… 

What dental professionals need to know about snus and nicotine pouches

Patric Aria Saraby explores the impact of snus and nicotine pouches on gingival tissues and the oral mucosa. As smokeless nicotine products gain popularity in the UK, particularly among younger adults, dental professionals are seeing new patterns of oral soft tissue pathology. Products like snus and nicotine pouches are often promoted as ‘healthier’ alternatives to… 

Income protection: you’ve gone private – but what if you can’t work?

Stephen Barry explains the value of income protection in private practice to replace the safety net of NHS sickness benefits. One of the most powerful ways to bring to life the importance of protection is putting it into perspective. With that in mind, I often approach protection with clients when discussing the move from NHS…