More than 100 delegates from the dental nursing sector attended the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN) 75th Anniversary Conference and Reception, held at Millbank Tower, London on 22 November, to celebrate the history and achievements of the organisation and look to the future for dental nursing.

Recently appointed CEO, Kate Kerslake, along with Chair, Julia Frew, and other NEBDN Board Trustees, hosted the Conference and were delighted to welcome a variety of guest speakers who provided updates on the latest developments in dentistry and dental nursing.

Claire Stevens, a Consultant in Paediatric Dentistry at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, gave a presentation on the need for a collaborative and innovative approach to improve children’s oral health. She was joined on stage by Ben Underwood, CEO of Brush DJ who provided an insight into his award-winning app.

A panel session with guests including Diana Wincott, retired trustee of NEBDN, and Michael Wheeler, HEE Programme Manager, discussed memories of dental nursing in the 1960s and examined what opportunities there are for Dental Nurses now and in the future.

A celebratory reception, held the same evening, welcomed key figures from NEBDN’s past including Nairn Wilson, Emeritus Professor of Dentistry at King’s College London, who provided a look back at the long history of the NEBDN.

Sara Hurley, Chief Dental Officer for England, addressed the reception guests and congratulated the NEBDN on reaching their 75th Anniversary milestone and acknowledged their integral support in the changing landscape of Dental Nursing.

Kate Kerslake spoke of the future for NEBDN and highlighted the charity’s continued commitment to the research and development of relevant training for dental Nurses. Kate said the organisation would 'support the increase in extended skill mix within a dental setting through the provision and expansion of post qualification courses and will pilot a new Fluoride Application course early next year'.

Kate also announced that NEBDN are reviewing their use of technology and are investing in developing the supporting framework to ensure they can maintain standards whilst moving towards delivering products and services via electronic means.

The event saw the inaugural NEBDN Special Recognition Awards being presented to individuals who have demonstrated dedication, outstanding service and commitment to NEBDN and/or the education and training of dental nurses through involvement and achievement at a national or UK level.

Winners included Martyn Waddington who received multiple nominations for going above and beyond in his role with the NEBDN.

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