All-Wales Dental Team Conference showcases innovation, prevention and collaboration in modern dentistry

Published 4/11/2025

The much-anticipated All-Wales Dental Team Conference, hosted by the Dental Deanery, Medical Directorate, Health Education and Improvement Wales (HEIW), once again brought together dental professionals from across the nation for a day of learning, innovation and collaboration.

This year’s event featured an inspiring line up of expert speakers who shared insights into the evolving landscape of dental practice, from cutting edge technology to preventative public health initiatives and the importance of patient engagement.

Exploring the Future of Dental Education and Digital Workflows in Practice

Professor Phil Newton Ph.D., Professor of Medical Science Education, opened with “Dental Education in the Age of Generative AI,” exploring how artificial intelligence is reshaping how dental professionals learn, teach, and practice. His session highlighted the balance between technological innovation and maintaining a human-centred approach in patient care.

Ashley Byrnes BSc (Hons) CDT, Dental Technician, followed with a captivating session titled “Effortless Dentistry: How AI, AR, and Digital Workflow Is Changing Everything.” Attendees were introduced to the transformative potential of artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and advanced digital tools such as CAD/CAM and 3D printing. Ashley demonstrated how these technologies can streamline workflows and enhance the quality and precision of dental treatments.

Championing Oral Health and Prevention

Mary Wilson, Consultant in Dental Public Health, provided an “Overview and Update of the Two National Oral Health Improvement Programmes in Wales - Designed to Smile and Gwên Am Byth.” Her presentation reinforced the vital role of public health programmes in tackling inequalities and improving oral health across all age groups.

Rhiannon Jones, President of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy, posed a powerful question: “Are we doing enough?” In her session, she encouraged dental professionals to “sell health, not dentistry,” highlighting the importance of prevention-focused communication and empowering patients to take ownership of their oral health.

Leadership and Reflection

Kirstie Moons, Dental Postgraduate Dean, closed the event with a message of gratitude and inspiration, by saying “This annual face-to-face dental team educational event hosted by the Dental Deanery in HEIW is much anticipated and well supported by the dental profession right across Wales.”

“We know that our profession values not just the relevant presentations from excellent speakers, but also the opportunity to meet face to face and network with colleagues outside of their everyday workplaces.

In those interactions, we are able to ascertain that what we are delivering has value and impact on our workforce and the patients they serve, whilst also getting valuable insight to help shape our future programmes and events. This HEIW event continues to evolve and is a key fixture every year for the dental workforce in Wales.”

Delegates Reflect: Key Takeaways from the Day

Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive, with delegates highlighting both the practical and inspirational aspects of the sessions:

• “How important it is to move with the ever-changing and advancing technology to maximise quality and efficiency of treatment for all patients.”
• “How important it is to build a lasting and sustainable relationship with patients in order to maximise engagement in improving and maintaining good oral health.”
• “The AI session was amazing! I do use it to support ideas within my work practices, but I gained even more of an insight as to how effective AI can be and how to utilise it.”
• “Now, I understand different personalities, and this will help me tailor my approach when delivering oral health advice. I also learned how to use AI beneficially and how the latest technologies, such as intraoral scanning, enhance prosthodontic outcomes.”

Next Steps for Dental Teams

Following the conference, HEIW encourages dental professionals to take their learning back to their teams and communities. Key next steps include:

• Implementing emerging technologies: Integrate AI, 3D printing, CAD/CAM, and digital workflows into clinical practice to boost efficiency and outcomes.
• Strengthening prevention strategies: Apply communication techniques to support behavioural change and improve oral health.
• Engaging with national initiatives: Promote awareness of Designed to Smile and Gwên Am Byth to enhance community-wide oral health.
• Continuous professional development: Share insights from the event and stay engaged in CPD opportunities.
• Collaboration and networking: Maintain connections and foster teamwork across practices and regions.

Looking Ahead

Plans are already underway for next year’s conference, promising another opportunity for Wales’ dental workforce to connect, learn, and shape the future of dentistry, ensuring that care remains innovative, preventative, and patient-centred.

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