College of General Dentistry News

Council election results 2024

The College has announced the results of recent elections to eight regional and four new role-based seats on its Council, with nine new members elected and three re-elected.

(l-r, top row first) New CGDent Council Members-Elect Steve Campbell, Jane Dalgarno, Stuart Ellis, Nicola Gore, Fazeela Khan-Osborne, Anoup Nandra, Thomas Stapleton, Miranda Steeples and Janine Yazdi-Doughty, and re-elected Council Members Matthew Collins, Ewen McColl and Dalip Kumar

Steve Campbell FCGDent, Managing Director of Nexus Dental Laboratories in Ripon, is the first elected representative of the College’s Faculty of Dental Technology & Clinical Dental Technology (FDTCDT), a constituency comprising all College members who are dental or clinical dental technicians. Starting out as a trainee technician in a local dental lab in 1992, he was promoted to Laboratory Manager in 2003 and Managing Director in 2013. With particular interests in dental implantology and the integration of digital and CAD/CAM workflows, in 2015 he established Nexus as a fully digital lab supporting restorative dentistry. He has been President of the Dental Laboratories Association since 2016, serves on the Executive Council of the British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry (BAAD), and served two terms as Technical Representative on the Board of the Association of Dental Implantology (ADI).

He succeeds Bill Sharpling FCGDent, Associate Dean and Director of the London Dental Education Centre at King’s College London’s Faculty of Dentistry, Oral & Craniofacial Sciences, who had been the appointed Dental Technology & Clinical Dental Technology Representative since 2021. Mr Sharpling will continue to attend Council meetings in his role as Chair of the FDTCDT Board.

Jane Dalgarno AssocFCGDent, Clinical Workforce Development Lead at Community Dental Services CIC, is the first elected Council representative of the College’s Faculty of Dental Nursing & Orthodontic Therapy (FDNOT). A past President of the British Association of Dental Nurses, she began her career in general dental practice as a trainee dental nurse in 1986 and completed the National Certificate for Dental Surgery Assistants in 1993. An examiner for the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses, and past Programme Director for the HEE Foundation Degree in Advanced Dental Nursing, she holds certificates in education, oral health education, sedation and dental radiography, as well as the A1/A2 assessors award, a BSc in Primary Dental Care and an MSc in Applied Dental Professional Practice from the University of Kent. She has been on the Board of the FDNOT since it was first convened in 2021, and was a member of the Dental Nursing and Orthodontic Therapy Working Group which co-developed the College’s Professional Framework for Career Pathways in Dentistry.

She succeeds Debbie Reed FCGDent, Reader and Lead for Faculty Development at King’s College London’s Faculty of Life Science and Medicine, who had been the appointed Dental Nursing & Orthodontic Therapy Representative since 2023. Dr Reed will continue to attend Council meetings in her role as Chair of the FDNOT Board.

Stuart Ellis FCGDent has been elected to represent Trent and East Anglia. Clinical Director of a five-surgery general dental practice in Cambridge, where he has practised for over thirty years, he previously spent two years working in maxillofacial units in Belfast and London. Director of the Cambridge Academy of Dental Implantology, he is Course Lead for both the MSc in Advanced Dental Implantology and MSc in General Dental Practice at Aston University, and for ten years was an examiner for the former Membership of the Faculty of General Dental Practice (MFGDP) and Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties (MJDF) awards. He holds a Diploma and a Master’s in Postgraduate Dental Studies from the University of Bristol, a Master’s in Medical Law & Ethics from the University of Edinburgh and a Postgraduate Diploma in Medical Education from the University of Cambridge, where he is currently completing his third Master’s degree. He acts as an expert witness in the UK and Ireland and as an advisor to the GDC’s Professional Conduct Committee, holds the Diploma of Fellowship of the former FGDP, and is a Fellow of the Faculty of Dental Surgery of the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS). He succeeds Jonathan Farmer FCGDent, who stood down after serving on the College Council and former FGDP Board since 2015.

Nicola Gore FCGDent, Principal of a dental practice in north London, has been elected to represent the North Thames region. Since qualifying as a dentist from the University of London in 1993, she has held various general practice and hospital maxillofacial posts within the UK and Australia, has taught undergraduate and graduate dental students and trained 25 Foundation Dentists. She holds the MJDF, a Master’s in Clinical Dentistry in Fixed & Removable Prosthodontics from the Royal London and a Postgraduate Certificate in Dental Education from the University of Bedfordshire, and has also undertaken postgraduate training in orthodontics. Co-founder and President of the British Iranian Dental Association, she is a past committee member of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) and a member of the British Society of Prosthodontics. She is co-author of Dentistry in a Nutshell, and among the authors of the forthcoming third edition of the College’s Standards in Dentistry publication. She succeeds Victor Gehani FCGDent, who was appointed to the seat in 2023 pending this year’s election.

Fazeela Khan-Osborne FCGDent has been elected to represent College members in Central London. Principal of a general dental practice in London for 25 years, she has a special interest in full mouth rehabilitation, both surgical and restorative. Initially graduating with a BSc in Medical Biochemistry and Physiology from Queen Mary University, she qualified as a dentist at the Royal Hospital London in 1994 and undertook training in oral and maxillofacial surgery. She holds a Diploma in Restorative Dental Practice and an MSc in Restorative Dentistry from the Royal London, and completed the FGDP(UK) Diploma in Implant Dentistry, later becoming a lead tutor. Founding Course Lead of the One to One Implant Education programme, she teaches and lectures on implant dentistry worldwide. She also sits on the Executive Council of the BAAD, is Immediate Past President of the London Dental Fellowship, and is a fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists and a member of the ADI. She succeeds Subir Banerji FCGDent, who had held the seat since 2022.

Anoup Nandra FCGDent, Principal Dentist at a mixed NHS-and-private practice in Edgbaston and a private dental practice in Wolverhampton, has been elected in the West Midlands. He graduated from Birmingham in 2002 and completed Vocational Training in London before returning to the Midlands, where he has practised for twenty years. He has served as a clinical lecturer at the University of Birmingham and as a Foundation Dental Trainer, and is a member of Birmingham Local Dental Committee as well as the BACD, the ADI, the Society for the Advancement of Anaesthesia in Dentistry and the British Society of Restorative Dentistry. He holds both the MJDF and MFGDP, and has completed a Postgraduate Diploma in Implant Dentistry from University College London, an MSc in Dental Implantology from the University of Central Lancashire and a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education from the University of Wolverhampton. He also holds the Cardiff University / Bond Solon Expert Witness Certificate and is pursuing an LLM in legal aspects of medical practice. He succeeds Kanwar Ratra MCGDent, who had been the region’s representative since 2021.

Thomas Stapleton AssocFCGDent, Clinical Lead at a group of private dental practices in north Yorkshire, has been elected to the Yorkshire and Northern seat. Beginning his career as a research scientist after completing a BSc in Microbiology with Immunology and PhD in Tissue Engineering at the University of Leeds, he qualified as a dentist in 2013 and has worked in general dental practice ever since. With a special interest in endodontics, he holds a Postgraduate Diploma from the University of Chester, is a member of the British Endodontic Society and receives external referrals. He has also undertaken advanced training in restorative dentistry, completed the MJDF, and is the local Study Club Lead for Dentinal Tubules. He succeeds Sagi Shavit, who had held the seat since 2022.

Miranda Steeples AssocFCGDent is the first elected Council representative of the College’s Faculty of Dental Hygiene & Dental Therapy (FDHDT). A dental therapist and hygienist working in general dental practice in Hastings, Eastbourne, and Hailsham, she qualified from the University of Leeds in 2009 with a Graduate Diploma in Dental Hygiene and Therapy, having previously worked as a dental nurse. She was elected to the South East regional committee of the British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy in 2014, joined the Executive Committee in 2018 and became President in 2022. She holds a Level 5 Certificate in Coaching and Mentoring from the Institute of Leadership and Management and an MSc in Advanced Specialist Healthcare from the University of Kent, is a member of the UK co-ordinating committee for the Alliance for a Cavity Free Future and enjoys volunteering for Mini Molars Cambodia. She has been a member of the FDHDT Board since it was first convened in 2021, and was also on the Dental Hygiene and Dental Therapy Working Group which co-developed the College’s Professional Framework.

She succeeds Frances Robinson AssocFCGDent, a dental hygienist working in private practice in London and oral health practitioner in NHS community outreach, who had been the appointed Dental Hygiene & Dental Therapy Representative since 2023. Ms Robinson will continue to attend Council meetings in her role as Chair of the FDHDT Board.

Janine Yazdi-Doughty FCGDent, a partner and clinical lead for paediatric dentistry, sedation and research at a referral practice in Sandbach, has been elected to represent members in the Mersey and North West region. Since qualifying from Bristol in 2010, she has also worked with adults and children with anxieties, special educational needs and other vulnerabilities in primary, secondary and tertiary care in London and Nottingham as well as for several dental charities. She has completed the RCS Diploma in Dental Public Health, a Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Research from Queen Mary University of London, a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education and Leadership from the University of Bedfordshire, and both an MSc and PhD in Dental Public Health from University College London. She is a clinical lecturer at the University of Liverpool and primary care dentistry research champion for the North West Clinical Research Network. She has published over 30 papers, is on the BDA Central Committee for University Dental Educators and Researchers and is an Associate Editor for the Community Dental Health Journal. She succeeds Andrew Parashchak MCGDent, who stood down after six years on the Council and former FGDP Board.

Matthew Collins FCGDent, a general dental practitioner in Batley and Chair of Calderdale and Kirklees Local Dental Committee, has been elected as the first ever representative of the College’s Faculty of Dentists. He has been a national representative on the Council and former FGDP Board since 2020, and served as Vice President from 2023-24.

Ewen McColl FCGDent, Head of Plymouth University Peninsula School of Dentistry, Co-Editor of Standards in Dentistry and a former general dentist in the British Army, has been re-elected in the South West region, which he has represented since 2021.

Dalip Kumar AssocFCGDent, Principal of a mixed NHS-and-private general dental practice in Swansea, has been elected in Wales after serving a year as the appointed representative for the seat.

Other members of the Council are Patricia Thomson FCGDent, Helen Kaney FCGDent, Eldo Koshy FCGDent, Yann Maidment FCGDent, Susan Nelson MCGDent and Sami Stagnell AssocFCGDent.

An announcement will be made shortly confirming an appointment to the new post of Chair of the Faculty of Dentists, the holder of which will also attend Council meetings.

The Council is the voice of the College’s members, overseeing its role as a professional body and guiding its development to fulfil its mission. Elections are held annually on a rotational basis, with the National seat and regional seats representing West & North Scotland, East of Scotland, Wessex & Oxford, South East & South West Thames and overseas members due for election in 2025, and the Northern Ireland seat in 2026.

Elected Council members serve three-year terms, and are then able to stand for re-election – subject to a lifetime limit of nine years’ service on the Council, including any past service on the FGDP(UK) National Board. Those elected this year will be inaugurated at the next Council meeting, which takes place in London on Friday 21 June.

Abhi Pal FCGDent, President of the College, said:

“Many congratulations to Steve, Jane, Stuart, Nicola, Fazeela, Anoup, Thomas, Miranda, Janine and Dalip on their election to Council, to Matt on his new seat and to Ewen on his re-election. As my own time on Council comes to a close, it is wonderful to see such experienced and knowledgeable practitioners elected by our members to continue to fulfil the College’s historic mission and to support my successor.

“I would also like to thank Jonathan and Andrew for their longstanding commitment to the College Council and Faculty Board, and Victor, Subir, Kanwar and Sagi for their service to the College Council. Finally, I would like to express my thanks to all those who have served on the Council over the last three years for their support and counsel throughout my Presidency.”

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Ilser Turkyilmaz and Amin Aminian to edit PDJ implant issues

The College has announced that Professor Ilser Turkyilmaz and Dr Amin Aminian FCGDent are the guest editors on two upcoming issues of the Primary Dental Journal (PDJ) dedicated to implant dentistry.

(l-r) Professor Ilser Turkyilmaz and Dr Amin Aminian FCGDent

The issues, which will be published in September and December 2024, will include clinical articles and updates from the UK and around the world on the latest evidence informing dental implantology and the practice of implant dentistry within general dental practice.

The September issue will also feature, in print for the first time, the complete text of the College’s Mentoring in Implant Dentistry: Good Practice Guidelines. Setting out the details of the requirement in Training Standards in Implant Dentistry to have an experienced clinician acting as a mentor, it is endorsed by the Association of British Academic Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the British Association of Oral Surgeons, the Foundation for Oral Rehabilitation, the International Team for Implantology and the Platform for Exchange of Experience, Research and Science.

The same issue will also include full details of the College’s Register of Implant Dentistry Mentors, which is expected to be launched soon.

Ilser Turkyilmaz is Clinical Professor and Digital Dentistry Coordinator at the Department of Prosthodontics of New York University College of Dentistry, and also works part-time in private practice in Manhattan. After obtaining his dental degree (DDS) in 1998 from Hacettepe University, Ankara, Prof Turkyilmaz completed a PhD in Prosthodontics in 2004. He became a researcher in the Department of Biomaterials at Gothenburg University Institute of Clinical Sciences in 2005, later undertaking a fellowship programme in implant dentistry at Ohio State University in Columbus. In 2008 he became Assistant Professor in Prosthodontics at the University of Texas in San Antonio, where he also served as Director of the Dental School Implant Clinic from 2011-14 and maintained a private practice specialising in implants and fixed and removable prosthodontics. In 2016 he completed the Advanced Standing programme at Boston University Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine and became a Clinical Associate Professor in Prosthodontics at NYU.

He achieved Diplomate status in the International Congress of Oral Implantologists in 2011, is an active member of the Academy of Osseointegration, and is a committee member of the Implant Research Group of the International Association of Dental Research. He has edited and written chapters for several books on contemporary practice and the use of technology in implant dentistry, and has published over 100 clinical papers. He is a reviewer for several journals, an Editorial Board member for the Journal of Clinical Implant Dentistry and Related Research and the Journal of Implant and Advanced Clinical Dentistry, and an Associate Editor for the Journal of Contemporary Dental Practice. He has previously contributed to three issues of PDJ and guest-edited the Winter 2022 issue on the theme of Digital Dentistry.

Amin Aminian qualified from Liverpool University in 1993 and completed his Vocational Training in a rural dental practice in North Wales. He then moved to the Falkland Islands as Chief Dental Officer, providing dental care to the local population in Stanley and across the islands. After returning to the UK, he completed a Master’s degree in fixed and removable prosthodontics at the University Dental Hospital of Manchester in 2000, and gained Membership of the Faculty of Dental Surgery of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons in Glasgow the same year. In 2004 he completed four years’ specialist training in prosthodontics and was awarded a Membership in Restorative Dentistry at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. He has worked in general dental practices in London and Manchester, as a locum consultant at Blackburn Royal Infirmary, and at specialist practices in Cheshire. His practice is limited to prosthodontics, and he accepts referrals from across the North-West and wider UK.

He led the module in Removable Prosthodontics on the Diploma in Aesthetic and Restorative Dentistry programme of the former Faculty of General Dental Practice (FGDP), and co-organised the 13-module Aesthetic Restorative Course. As an Honorary Teaching Fellow at Manchester University Dental Hospital, he supervised research projects in dental implants and aesthetic aspects of restorative dentistry. His other teaching posts have included Senior Lecturer at the University of Central Lancashire and Visiting Lecturer on the University of Birmingham’s MSc programme in Advanced General Dental Practice. Dr Aminian was also a panellist on the College’s webinar, How to get the best from your career in dentistry.

Primary Dental Journal is the College’s quarterly peer-reviewed journal. Unique in its dedication to general dental practice, it is a leading resource for GDPs and DCPs working in primary care, and has as its Clinical Editor and Editor-in-Chief Igor Blum, Clinical Professor of Primary Dental Care and Advanced General Dental Practice at King’s College London. Two themed issues in each annual volume explore topics of interest and relevance to the primary care dental team, led by an invited Guest Editor who is a renowned expert in the field, with two ‘general dentistry’ issues covering a wide range of topics.

College members are sent a print copy of each issue, and non-members can purchase individual issues or an annual subscription in print. Some individual articles are made available online free of charge.

The two upcoming issues of PDJ (volume 13, numbers 3 and 4) will be the first to be dedicated to implant dentistry since volume 2, issue 2 (June 2013), which is available to members in the PDJ Archive.

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President’s Award for John Gibson

The College has awarded the President’s Award to Professor John Gibson, founder and CEO of The Canmore Trust.

The award, announced during Mental Health Awareness Week and the first of its type to made by the College since it opened in 2021, has been bestowed on Professor Gibson to honour his work on suicide prevention and suicide postvention (the provision of support after someone dies by suicide).

Previously known as the Dean’s Award under the former Faculty of General Dental Practice UK (FGDP), it is given at the discretion of the College President to charities, dental professionals and other individuals who have made significant contributions to promoting and improving oral health or public health relevant to dentistry in the UK or internationally.

John Gibson is Emeritus Professor of Oral Medicine at the University of Aberdeen, and Honorary Consultant in Oral Medicine to the British Army. He graduated in both medicine and dentistry from the University of Glasgow, where he also undertook specialist training in oral medicine and completed his PhD in orofacial granulomatosis.

For 35 years, he worked as a clinical academic, with research interests including oral cancer, the oral manifestation of gastrointestinal disorders, and oro-facial pain syndromes. His appointments have included Professor of Medicine in Relation to Dentistry and Honorary Consultant in Oral Medicine at the University of Glasgow, Head of the University of Aberdeen Institute of Dentistry, Associate Postgraduate Dental Dean for Scotland, Chair of the General Dental Council’s Fitness to Practice Committee and Chair of Dental Protection Limited, and he has also worked at the Edinburgh Dental Institute and Dundee Dental Hospital and School.

In the early hours of Sunday 20 October 2019 his life, and that of his wife and family, was suddenly and cruelly changed when his beloved son Cameron, a newly qualified veterinary surgeon, died by suicide aged just 24. He had no known history of psychological distress and left no note to explain his decision – his death remains a mystery to those who knew and loved him.

This devastating event led to a period of mental ill health for John, and both he and his wife Isobel, a GP, resigned from work as they attempted to rebuild their shattered existence. As the family, including his two surviving children, struggled to resume their lives, they began the process of trying to understand suicide, and John and Isobel have since dedicated their time to suicide prevention and postvention, particularly in the medical, dental and veterinary professions.

Discovering that veterinary surgeons in the UK are three to four times more likely than the general population to die by suicide, they drove forward a discussion in the veterinary profession about improving mental health, engaging with the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons to bring about changes in drug-handling as well as research into suicidality within the profession.

In 2022 they established The Canmore Trust with a mission to reduce the number of people who die by suicide, and to help the family and friends of those who have died by suicide. The charity works with communities, practices, workplaces, schools, colleges and universities touched by suicide, and provides 24/7 support to those who may need encouragement to stay in the world despite all the struggles and difficulties they are currently facing.

To raise funds and awareness, John and Isobel embarked on multiple events. Most notably John walked 1,200 miles and climbed over 100,000 feet between Land’s End and John O’Groats in the summer of 2022, and he was joined by members of the veterinary and dental professions along the way. The journey inspired many others to mount their own events, and within ten months over £250,000 had been donated.

During the 76-day walk, he also delivered multiple talks to dental and other groups – including 50 dentists at a memorable CGDent evening in Inverness – where he discussed the issues of suicide and mental ill health and encouraged open discussion of these subjects.

John also trained as a facilitator with Survivors of Bereavement by Suicide, and The Canmore Trust trains those impacted by suicide to become “experienced friends” – people who have developed the skills to walk with others on the journey of suicide grief.

The Trust also aims to influence government policies and societal change, and following a chance encounter with Nicola Sturgeon, in September 2022 John was appointed to the Lived Experience Panel advising the Scottish Government’s National Suicide Prevention Leadership Group.

The President’s Award will be conferred by outgoing President Dr Abhi Pal FCGDent at the College’s Fellows’ Summer Reception in London on 20 June.

Announcing the award, Dr Pal said:

“Dentistry can be isolating, stressful and extremely demanding, and we know that the profession is, like veterinary medicine, at a higher-than-average risk of suicide. But while the importance of mental well-being is increasingly being recognised, we all still have much to learn about how we can better support ourselves and each other, both professionally and in our wider lives.

“John’s dogged determination to help others by addressing these issues is an inspiration. He has long been a highly respected colleague, admired as an excellent educator and an engaging, passionate and informative speaker. His candour and openness in discussing his own experiences and personal struggles is compelling, relevant and highly deserving of recognition. He is an example to us all, and on behalf of the College I wish him, and all those involved in The Canmore Trust, all the very best in their important work.”


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Andrew Chandrapal, Catherine Rutland and Wendy Thompson to lead study day

The College has announced Dr Andrew Chandrapal FCGDent, Dr Catherine Rutland FCGDent and Dr Wendy Thompson FCGDent as the speakers at its annual study day in Glasgow.

l-r: Dr Andrew Chandrapal FCGDent, Dr Catherine Rutland FCGDent and Dr Wendy Thompson FCGDent

Dr Chandrapal will give a lecture over two sessions entitled Problem solving in anterior and posterior composite dentistry, and Dr Rutland will deliver The ethics of aesthetics, an interactive lecture on ethical and legal considerations in the provision of aesthetic and cosmetic dental procedures. Dr Thompson will then deliver the annual Caldwell Memorial Lecture on Using antibiotics sustainably.

The annual study day, organised by CGDent Scotland, takes place at Glasgow Science Centre on the first Friday in December – 6 December this year. With six hours of CPD, the day is attended by up to 400 dental professionals from across the UK, and finishes with a drinks reception which marks the start of the festive season for its many regular attendees.

Andrew Chandrapal has been Principal of Bourne End Dental, a private general dental practice in Buckinghamshire, for almost 20 years, and has special interests in aesthetics, composite resin bonding and complex rehabilitation, including implants and management of tooth wear. He also practises in central London (limited to prosthodontics), is a postgraduate tutor for King’s College London, and is the founder and Director of IndigoDent Education. After qualifying from the University of Birmingham in 2001, he was awarded the Diploma of Membership of the former Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) in 2003, and in 2006 completed a Diploma in Postgraduate Dental Studies in periodontics, endodontics and tooth wear at the University of Bristol. In 2011 he attained a Distinction in a double Masters in Clinical Dentistry in fixed and removable prosthodontics at King’s College London, and he is also a graduate of the Kois Centre in Seattle. A Past President of the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, he is a long-standing member of the Association of Dental Implantology, the International Team for Implantology, the American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the British Society of Occlusal Studies. He is a Council Member of the Dental Defence Union and sits on the editorial board of Dental Update.

Catherine Rutland is Clinical Director of Simplyhealth (including Denplan), leading the team that supports its members, in particular during clinical disputes and times of professional risk, with regulatory and legislative advice, clinical mediation, clinical risk management and quality improvement advice. After qualifying as a dentist from the University of Leeds in 1992, she spent two and a half years in secondary care as a House Officer and Senior House Officer before completing Vocational Training. Moving into general dental practice, she was a joint partner in a private dental practice in West Berkshire from 2000-2019. She joined Denplan as a Dental Advisor in 2010, and was later promoted to Senior Dental Advisor, Head of Professional Support Services and Head Dental Officer before starting her current role full time in 2019. She holds a Master’s degree in Medical Ethics and Law from King’s College London (completed in 2013), became a Certified Member of the Institute of Risk Management in 2015 and was awarded a Level 7 Certificate in Leadership Mentoring and Coaching from the Chartered Management Institute in 2016.

Wendy Thompson is a general dental practitioner in Cumbria and Clinical Senior Lecturer in Primary Dental Care at the University of Manchester, and researches and lectures nationally and internationally on tackling antimicrobial resistance, reducing the overprescribing of antibiotics, and optimising the prevention and control of infections. She graduated BDS from the University of Liverpool, was awarded the Diploma of Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties of the Royal College of Surgeons of England, holds a BSc in Microbiology & Microbial Technology from the University of Warwick, and completed a PhD in antibiotic prescribing at the University of Leeds. She is a CGDent Ambassador, a member of the College’s Research Advisory Group, and College Lead on antimicrobial prescribing, resistance and stewardship, representing it on the UK Health Security Agency’s oversight committee and dental sub-group on antimicrobial use and resistance. She is also Vice Chair of the FDI World Dental Federation Science Committee, Chair of its working group on preventing antimicrobial resistance and infections, an advisor to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence, a member of the BDA Health & Science Committee, a Council member of the British Society for Antimicrobial Chemotherapy, a member of the BNF Dental Advisory Group, Trustee of the charity The AMR Narrative and a member of Antibiotics Research UK’s Public Engagement and Patient Support Committee. She was an honorary consultant to the Office of the Chief Dental Officer for England on antimicrobial stewardship and was Guest Editor of the College’s Primary Dental Journal issue dedicated to COVID-19 and urgent dental care. She is a Fellow of both the Higher Education Academy and the International College of Dentists and spent nine years working at the Ministry of Defence.

The Glasgow Science Centre will host around 400 dental professionals at the CGDent Scotland Study Day

The Caldwell Memorial Lecture is held in memory of Robert Craig Caldwell, who graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1950 and became a much-loved Dean of the School of Dentistry at the University of California, Los Angeles, before he died of leukaemia at the age of just 44.

The study day is open to all dental professionals, and can be attended in person or virtually.

Fee discounts are available to College members as follows: College dentist members can buy their tickets for just £149 (£249 once ‘early bird’ places are sold out), compared to the full rate for non-member dentists of £349. The concessionary rate for dental technicians, dental hygienists, dental therapists, dental nurses, practice managers and retired practitioners is £149, but for College members in these categories it is just £129.

Breakfast rolls, a two-course lunch, refreshments throughout the day and evening drinks are all included in the attendance fee, and there is an accompanying trade exhibition to visit.

Other discounts to the full rate are available to members of the Glasgow Odontological Society, Foundation Dentists / Vocational Trainees and their trainers.

For further information, visit our events pages.

SECURE YOUR PLACE HERE

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Roshni Karia to be next President of the College

Roshni Karia MCGDent has been appointed as the next President of the College of General Dentistry.

Dr Karia is a general dental practitioner in London, with a special interest in periodontology. She has worked as an Associate Dentist in London and in Surrey, providing general dentistry as well as periodontal treatment.

Since 2015 she has been an undergraduate Clinical Tutor and Examiner in the department of periodontology at the Faculty of Dentistry and Oral and Craniofacial Sciences, King’s College London. Recently, she has also become Postgraduate Tutor, within the subjects of Clinical Practice, Education and Healthcare Leadership, with Medics Academy, in a postgraduate programme accredited by the University of Central Lancashire. 

She graduated from King’s College London in 2010 before completing Vocational Training at a mixed NHS-and-private dental practice in Plumstead, London. This was followed by training in restorative and paediatric dentistry, oral surgery, oral medicine and acute dental care as a Senior House Officer at King’s College Hospital.

She completed the Membership of the Joint Dental Faculties examination of the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS) in 2011, won the British Society of Restorative Dentistry’s Gary Pollock Postgraduate Prize in 2012, and completed an enhanced two-year postgraduate study programme in periodontology at King’s College London NHS Foundation Trust in 2013.

She joined the former Faculty of General Dental Practice (FGDP), the forerunner of the College, in 2012, and in 2015 was appointed as one of two Early Careers Representatives, a non-voting role on the organisation’s national board. In 2017 she was elected to the board to represent members in the South East and South West Thames region, later serving as Chair of the Education & Qualifications Committee, Chair of the Membership Affairs Committee and as a member of the COVID-19 Forward Planning Group. In 2019, she was elected as the Faculty’s youngest ever Vice Dean, and she was re-elected to her regional seat in 2020. She represented the Faculty on Public Health England’s Child Oral Health Improvement Board and in roundtable discussions with the Department of Health and Social Care ahead of the Prevention Green Paper.

Transferring to the College Council when the Faculty separated from the RCS in 2021, she is Chair of the Certified Membership Scheme Programme Board and a member of the Career Pathways Programme Board, and was re-elected on to the Council in 2023. She has also served as Chair of the Professional Affairs Committee and Chair of the Careers and Training Committee, was elected Senior Vice-President in 2021, and is a facilitator for the CGDent NextGen leadership programme.

She has represented the College on two working groups convened by the British Society of Periodontology to implement the EFP S3-level guidelines on the management and treatment of Stages I-III periodontitis and the prevention and treatment of peri-implant diseases, and was also the College’s lead reviewer of the recently-published SDCEP guidelines on prevention and treatment of periodontal disease.

A Fellow of the Higher Education Academy since 2020, she successfully completed the Healthcare Leadership Academy Scholarship Programme in 2022, and in 2023 she was awarded the University of Central Lancashire’s Postgraduate Certificate in Clinical Practice, Management and Education, with distinction. She has also written and co-authored articles in the British Dental Journal, Primary Dental Journal and Dental Update, and was a contributor to the CGDent-FGDP guidance, Implications of COVID-19 for the safe management of general dental practice.

Appointed for a three-year term, she will be inaugurated on 21 June 2024 at a meeting of the College Council in London. She will be the first female President or Dean in the history of the College and former Faculty, the first Associate Dentist in the role, and the College’s third President following Abhi Pal FCGDent (2021-24) and Sir Nairn Wilson CBE FCGDent (2017-2021).

Commenting on her appointment, Dr Karia said:

“I feel incredibly humbled, blessed and privileged and thank the College Council for the tremendous faith they have placed upon me in this role. I would like to also extend my gratitude to Abhi Pal, my predecessors and the staff team for their outstanding leadership, hard work and tireless dedication to the organisation. Much has been achieved thus far and the College finds itself at an extremely exciting time to further develop its aspirations for the benefit of the whole profession and our patients; truly celebrating the breadth of the whole oral healthcare team. The tenacity and determination that many of our fantastic colleagues have demonstrated has allowed the College to embrace a unique opportunity and I congratulate all those involved. As we build upon these vital foundations, with a growing membership, I look forward to working across the profession to bring further focus on career progression, empowering colleagues and ultimately advancing dentistry for the benefit of all our patients.”

Abhi Pal, current President of the College, added:

“Many congratulations to Roshni on her appointment to the role of President. Roshni is a richly experienced practitioner, with a proven commitment to postgraduate education and teaching as well as having a detailed understanding of dental careers. She is a highly respected colleague, and members should be delighted that the College will be in such good hands as we move forward.”

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Recruitment of Board Chair (Faculty of Dentists)

The College will soon appoint the inaugural Chair of the Board of its Faculty of Dentists, and all Full Members, Associate Fellows and Fellows of the College who are dentists are eligible to apply.

The Faculty of Dentists is a constituency of the College automatically comprising all dentist members. The interests of these members as a discrete professional group will be advanced within the College by both a voting representative on the elected College Council and by a Faculty Board which will advise and report to Council.

Membership of the Faculty Board will be appointed by Council, starting with the Chair, who will then lead on further recruitment, establish the Board’s business, and work closely with the President and other Faculty Board Chairs in realising College priorities.

The Chair will be appointed for a non-renewable three-year term from June 2024 – June 2027, during which they will be expected to attend the three formal meetings of Council each year, and to coordinate at least three meetings of their Faculty Board with these dates. Council holds full day hybrid meetings, with attendance in person preferred.

The role is voluntary, with essential expenses covered. A role profile is available below.

ROLE PROFILE

Applications should be made by email, headed “Board Chair (Faculty of Dentists)”, to [email protected], attaching a CV and covering letter addressing the person specification.

The closing date for applications is Sunday 19 May 2024.

Interviews will be held online in the week beginning 27 May (tbc) with a selection panel convened by Council, and the appointee should be available to attend the College Council meeting on Friday 21 June 2024.

If you have questions or would like a confidential discussion about the role, please contact Simon Thornton-Wood PhD, Chief Executive of the College, at [email protected]

Dr Abhi Pal, President of the College, said:

“The convening of Faculty Boards is the next step in the evolution of the College, giving each of our constituencies an even stronger voice and ensuring that our activities are designed and implemented to best serve each professional role. The post of Chair of the Board of the Faculty of Dentists is a significant opportunity to play a leading role in shaping future careers for dentists in primary care, and our oral healthcare policy and advocacy, in a young organisation which is rapidly establishing an influential role.”

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College of General Dentistry News

College Fellow appointed CDO

Jason Wong has been appointed Chief Dental Officer (CDO) for England.

A career general dental practitioner, and partner in a 12-surgery mixed practice in Grantham, he was Secretary of the Lincolnshire Local Dental Committee for 16 years, is a past Chair of the Local Dental Network for NHS Central Midlands, and had been Interim CDO since Sara Hurley stood down in June 2023.

A Fellow of the College and previously of the former Faculty of General Dental Practice (FGDP), in 2017 he received the Faculty’s Community Contribution Award in recognition of his local oral health initiatives and commitment to developing the skills of local dentists.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, he was a contributor to the CGDent-FGDP guidance, Implications of COVID-19 for the safe management of general dental practice – a practical guide, and he was key in developing the associated Fallow Time Calculator.

In January 2020 he was awarded an MBE for services to dentistry and oral health, and he was appointed Deputy CDO for England later that year. As Chair of ‘Project Sphere’, he has worked to promote a positive patient safety culture in dentistry, a subject on which he has hosted a webinar, lectured and written a blog for the College, and the College also hosts his collaborative initiative to encourage dental professionals to ensure they seek advice from suitable sources when patient safety incidents occur. He is also a speaker on the College’s webinar on dental care for patients with diabetes.

Many congratulations, Dr Wong.

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College of General Dentistry News

Voting open for College Council elections

Voting is now open for seats on the Council of the College of General Dentistry, and all eligible members are encouraged to cast their vote(s).

The Council is the voice of our members, overseeing our role as a professional body and guiding the development of the College to fulfil its mission. Twelve regional and role-based seats are being elected this year, with elected candidates due to serve from June 2024 – June 2027.

 A ballot of eligible members is required for eight of these seats:

  • Faculty of Dentists
  • Faculty of Dental Nursing & Orthodontic Therapy
  • Central London
  • Mersey and North West
  • Trent and East Anglia
  • Wales
  • West Midlands
  • Yorkshire and Northern

Associate Members, Full Members, Associate Fellows and Fellows of the College who are dentists, dental nurses or orthodontic therapists are eligible to vote for their respective role-based (Faculty) representative. (For electoral purposes, all members have been automatically assigned to one of the College’s four faculties based on the team role in which they have registered their College membership.)

Full Members, Associate Fellows and Fellows of the College whose registered address with the College is within one of the regions in which a ballot is being held are eligible to vote in that regional election.

College Council elections employ the Alternative Vote (AV) system, under which eligible members rank candidates in order of preference. A candidate receiving over 50 per cent of first preference votes is elected. Otherwise the candidate with the fewest first preference votes is eliminated and their second preference votes are reallocated to the remaining candidates until one candidate has more votes than the other remaining candidates put together.

All eligible members were sent an email on Wednesday 24 April 2024 by the College’s election services provider, Mi-Voice, to the email address which the member has registered with the College. This email confirms the election(s) for which the member is eligible to vote, and contains a unique link through which they can complete and submit their vote(s) online. The deadline to cast votes is 10am on Friday 24 May 2024.

Please ensure that your membership of CGDent is up to date before you vote, otherwise your vote might not count. The CGDent member register displays a list of all current members. Alternatively, you can contact us at [email protected] to confirm your membership status. If you do need to renew your membership, you can do this easily online here

New members joining during the voting period will also be eligible to vote, but should note that it will take around a week for their unique voting details to be issued to them, and late votes will not be counted.

The candidates are listed below with their election statements.

Following the election, the results will be announced in late May or early June.

If you are an eligible member but cannot find the email from Mi-Voice inviting you to vote in your inbox, please check your junk or spam folder, and if necessary double-check the email account you have registered with the College by logging in at https://cgdent.uk/my-account

If you experience any technical difficulties submitting your vote(s), please contact Mi-Voice at [email protected] or on 02380 763987.

CANDIDATES

Faculty of Dentists

Rita Bagga FCGDent

“Standing for election at the College of General Dental Practice presents a significant opportunity to actively contribute to the advancement of dental practice. With my extensive experience and dedication to the field, I could offer invaluable insights and perspectives, enriching the discourse within the CGDP community.“

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I am a dedicated dental professional with extensive experience and a passion for education and clinical practice. Holding a BDS with distinction, along with postgraduate qualifications including MJDF, MSc and MA, and presently studying for a Ph.D. supports my commitment to professional growth and development. I have served as a Senior Clinical Teacher in Restorative Dentistry at Guy’s Dental for over a decade, where I coordinate modules, mentor students, and contribute to curriculum design. Alongside my academic role, I actively engage in General Dental practice since my qualification, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care. My commitment extends beyond clinical and educational realms, as evidenced by my involvement with the General Dental Council as Clinical Advisor and Education Associate and Royal College of Surgeons as a Quality Assurance Advisor for ORE. Furthermore, I am passionate about reducing inequalities as shown through my work with the Local Dental Committee.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

Standing for election at the College of General Dental Practice presents a significant opportunity to actively contribute to the advancement of dental practice. With my extensive experience and dedication to the field, I could offer invaluable insights and perspectives, enriching the discourse within the CGDP community. By participating, I not only have the chance to represent the interests and concerns of my peers but also to influence the direction of policies and initiatives that shape the future of general dental practice. I will endeavour to foster collaboration, innovation, and positive change within the profession, ultimately contributing to the improvement of patient care and the elevation of standards in dental healthcare. Embracing this opportunity aligns with my commitment to excellence and desire to make a lasting impact in the field of dentistry.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

My ambitions for the organisation would revolve around fostering a collaborative and innovative environment that prioritises the advancement of dental practice and patient care. Therefore, I aim to promote initiatives that enhance professional development opportunities for members, ensuring access to knowledge and training resources. Additionally, I aspire to strengthen partnerships with relevant stakeholders to address key challenges facing the dental profession, such as oral health inequalities and workforce development. Through effective communication and engagement, I intend to cultivate a sense of unity and shared purpose among members, empowering them to actively join and contribute to the organisation’s mission. Furthermore, I am committed to advocating for policies and initiatives that promote a welcoming and supportive environment for all dental professionals to be part of locally and nationally.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

Throughout my professional journey, I have consistently demonstrated the skill set necessary to contribute meaningfully to the work of the Council. As a Senior Clinical Teacher, I have honed my communication and leadership abilities, guiding and mentoring students while coordinating complex modules and workshops. My roles at the General Dental Council have equipped me with a deep understanding of regulatory processes and the importance of upholding professional standards. Additionally, serving as a Director for the Harrow Local Dental Committee has provided me with invaluable experience in stakeholder engagement, strategic planning, and advocacy for local healthcare needs. On a personal level, I am deeply committed to continuous learning and self-improvement, as evidenced by my pursuit of postgraduate degrees and involvement in research endeavours. These experiences collectively illustrate my capacity to contribute effectively to the Council’s work, leveraging my skills, knowledge, and passion for excellence in dental practice.

Matthew Collins FCGDent

“I have been on the board in a national seat for the last three years, with the last year as Vice President. I have found the experience stimulating and interesting and have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure so far. I am very keen to continue on the board to help forge our way towards a Royal Charter.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I am a GDP and practice owner in Yorkshire and have further training in prosthodontics and implants. Our 10 surgery practice has been involved in the FD scheme for over 20 years.

I have been involved in the Faculty since gaining membership in 2001. I am passionate about educational progression and mentoring, so following on from attaining my fellowship in 2010 I became a facilitator for the award. In 2021 I was elected to the board for one of the national seats. I have embraced being part of the transition from FGDP into CGDent and endeavoured to add value wherever possible. Last year I was elected as Vice President and have supported the President to steer the college in the direction set by the trustees.

I have 2 teenage boys and an orthodontist wife. Together as a family we enjoy most sports, especially rugby, skiing and the gym.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I have been on the board in a national seat for the last three years, with the last year as Vice President.

I have found the experience stimulating and interesting and have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure so far.

I am very keen to continue on the board to help forge our way towards a Royal Charter. I feel I have the skill set and the energy to add value to the organisation and represent our region.

My involvement with the college since 2001 demonstrates my commitment to it and what is stands for.

Your vote would be gratefully appreciated and to allow me to continue in a role within the College.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

As a College we need to continue to define our career pathway so the whole team has a clear vision of what we represent and how we can support them as members throughout their career.

Progressing the College towards a Royal Charter is an important next step. We strive to raise standards for the whole team, enabling all team members to be the best professional version of themselves.

Increasing awareness of the College is paramount, so all dentists and their team members are inspired to become members.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

I have been a practice owner and LDC Chair for many years and also Vice Chair of the Yorkshire Forum of LDCs. I am well experienced in chairing meetings and being able to keep meetings on track. This allows robust discussions on relevant topics and the direction required to reach decisions. All the above roles involve working as part of a larger team, requiring constructive intervention to progress ideas. I am organised, considered, tactical and prudent, which are all necessary attributes to work successfully with a wider team.

Javed Ikram FCGDent

“My decision to stand for election stems from a deep-seated commitment to advancing the field of general dentistry and serving our professional community. Having been a member of the Strategic Advisory Group, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that strategic leadership can have on our profession.“

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

Qualifying from Liverpool in 1991, opting for then voluntary VT. I embarked on a career path from three years as a SHO in OMFS across Truro, Portsmouth, and Bristol to over a decade of teaching at the University of Manchester in Oral Maxillofacial surgery, and Staff Implantologist at UCLan, my professional trajectory has been dynamic and enriching.

I am currently the principal for two mixed practices in Lancashire, where I merge my passion for dentistry with a deep commitment to patient care. My love for the field is evident in my pursuit of multiple dental courses and qualifications and my role as a Tier 2 Minor Oral Surgery provider along with handling referrals from various disciplines like endodontics, implants, and orthodontics.

Beyond dentistry, I find solace in traveling, indulging in sports like badminton and squash, and occasionally delving into a good book when time permits!

Why did you decide to stand for election?

My decision to stand for election stems from a deep-seated commitment to advancing the field of general dentistry and serving our professional community. Having been a member of the Strategic Advisory Group under the esteemed founding president, Prof. Nairn Wilson, I have witnessed firsthand the transformative impact that strategic leadership can have on our profession.

I am a staunch advocate for the establishment of an independent college for general dentistry, believing it to be a crucial step towards elevating our field and providing a dedicated platform for professional development and collaboration.

With over three decades of experience, predominantly in general practice, I am driven by a desire to give back to our profession and leverage my expertise to serve the college and its members effectively.

As a general practitioner, I represent the voice of over 30,000 registered dental practitioners, advocating for their needs and aspirations within the college.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

Central to my ambitions, to attain Royal Charter status, a testament to our commitment to excellence and professionalism. Additionally, I envision positioning the dentist as a trusted consultant in general dental practice, further solidifying our role as integral contributors to the healthcare ecosystem.

My ambitions are centred around elevating our profession to new heights of excellence and impact. My vision is to cultivate a robust community, characterised by a diverse and dedicated team united in our pursuit of excellence. I am committed to fostering an environment that encourages lifelong learning, career progression, and professional development through educational examinations, courses, and research tailored to the nuances of primary care within various healthcare settings.

With your support, I am poised to realise these ambitions and propel our profession towards greater recognition and impact. Together, let us chart a course towards a brighter future for CGDent and the dental profession as a whole.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

My 33 year professional journey has been marked by a diverse array of experiences that underscore my ability to contribute effectively to the work of the Council. Serving as a member of the Local Dental Committee for the past five years, BDA local chairman, has honed my skills in collaborative decision-making and advocacy within the dental community. As a mentor to ADI, NW deanery Dental Appraiser and through my tenure at Manchester Dental Hospital and UCLan, I’ve gained a deep understanding of communication requirements and the intricacies of interdisciplinary teamwork.

Leading two dental practices underscores my management and ability to navigate complex operational challenges. I’ve lectured nationally demonstrating my expertise and commitment to knowledge dissemination. Additionally, my collaborative research efforts highlight my dedication to advancing our profession through evidence-based practice. These experiences and skill set are needed to make meaningful contributions to the work of the Council.

Faculty of Dental Nursing and Orthodontic Therapy

Vandana Atul Kanda

“I’m standing for election driven by a deep commitment to address the challenges faced by dental nurses. Through my experiences as a locum, I’ve witnessed firsthand the frustrations of colleagues feeling overlooked and stagnant in their careers – unable to advance despite their contributions.“

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I began my career as a trainee dental nurse in 2014, and after qualifying in 2017, I pursued additional certifications in specialised areas like sedation nursing (SAAD), impression taking, fluoride application, and ILM in decontamination and cross-infection control lead.

Throughout my career, I’ve had the opportunity to work across various dental specialties, including Orthodontics, Minor oral surgery, Implants, and Endodontics. This diverse experience has allowed me to develop a comprehensive skillset and in-depth understanding of dentistry.

Beyond clinical practice, I’ve taken on leadership roles, contributing to the professional development of trainee nurses and managing operations within dental practices. Currently, I’m the proprietor of a respected locum agency, where I help dental practices meet their staffing and compliance needs.

Committed to continual growth, I consistently seek out educational opportunities to advance my expertise in dentistry. In my personal time, I enjoy spending time with my family and reading.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I’m standing for election driven by a deep commitment to address the challenges faced by dental nurses. Through my experiences as a locum, I’ve witnessed firsthand the frustrations of colleagues feeling overlooked and stagnant in their careers – unable to advance despite their contributions.

As your representative, I will be a steadfast advocate, ensuring the voices of dental nurses are heard and their efforts recognised. My goal is to create clear pathways for professional growth and advancement, fostering a supportive environment where every nurse can thrive.

By standing for election, I seek to enact meaningful change that empowers dental nurses to reach their full potential and elevates the profession as a whole. With my diverse expertise and drive for continuous improvement, I’m prepared to be a tireless champion for my colleagues, driving progress and elevating the vital role we play in delivering exceptional dental care.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

As your representative, my ambition is to foster a deeply supportive and empowering environment for dental nurses. I envision spearheading initiatives focused on expanding access to continuous education and training opportunities, enhancing collaboration and networking among professionals, and advocating for policies that prioritize the well-being and advancement of our members.

Crucially, I also aspire to strengthen the visibility and recognition of dental nursing within the broader healthcare community. Through proactive engagement and strategic partnerships, I aim to elevate the status of our profession, emphasising our vital role in delivering exceptional patient care.

Ultimately, I see this organisation as a dynamic hub – one that inspires, educates and advocates, driving positive change that empowers dental nurses to thrive in their careers. By amplifying our voices and celebrating excellence, we can elevate dental nursing and ensure it remains at the forefront of innovation.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

Alongside my professional work, I regularly volunteer at a charity dental practice, providing hands-on nursing assistance and overseeing compliance protocols. This community engagement underscores my unwavering dedication to the field and showcases my ability to effectively manage clinical responsibilities while ensuring adherence to regulatory standards.

Through my active participation twice monthly, I demonstrate a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and commitment to delivering high-quality care aligned with industry best practices. This hands-on involvement enhances my skills and cultivates a deep understanding of the challenges facing dental practitioners and the importance of effective governance.

I believe these diverse experiences have equipped me with the requisite skill set to make a meaningful contribution as your representative. Additionally, I offer dental nurses free advice and am readily available to provide guidance whenever they reach out through group chats or other channels.

Jane Dalgarno AssocFCGDent

“Teamworking has been an essential feature throughout my career. This is best illustrated through my support and contribution already made to the dental nursing profession. Beyond Community Dentistry, I continue to represent dental nurses nationally in my BADN role.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

Over the course of my career, i have been dedicated to the advancement of the dental nursing profession.

I started my career in General Dental Practice in 1986, qualifying in 1993.Since 1995, I have primarily been employed in Community Dentistry, where i have progressed in both clinical and educational roles. Currently, as Clinical Workforce Development Lead, I lead on the design and delivery of clinical training projects, and upskilling of the workforce. As an educator, i have a deep understanding of the dental team and specifically, the needs and career aspirations of dental nursing professionals.

I work collaboratively with stakeholders, to deliver innovative approaches to education.

I am past President of the British Association of Dental Nurses (BADN) and currently hold the position of Deputy Chair of the Education Committee. I have a particular interest in mentoring and the wider use of skill mix within the dental team.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

Teamworking has been an essential feature throughout my career. This is best illustrated through my support and contribution already made to the dental nursing profession. Beyond Community Dentistry, i continue to represent dental nurses nationally in my BADN role. My decision to stand for election has been multifactorial, further influenced by the exemplarily support shown by my peers. I have contributed to CG Dent during my time on the Career pathway Dental Nursing (DN) & Orthodontic Therapy (OT) Working Group and currently in my role on the DN & OT Faculty Board. Representation on CG Dent Council is a progressive step, to enable me to influence further the development of dental nurses and orthodontic therapists. As a member of the inaugural DNOT faculty team, i have contributed to effective working relationships, collaborating on plans relating to membership engagement and recruitment and fundamentally dedicated to progressing the DNOT faculty.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

To nurture mutual respect amongst the dental team. To develop the work already established through the career pathways, to build upon life-long career structures that provide purpose and direction for all dental professionals across the oral health team. To raise the professional standing of the DN & OT Faculty within the college by fostering parity of esteem for all registered occupations, thus highlighting the importance of team working.

Develop a deeper understanding of the professional roles with the dental team and how these roles can best be supported through accessible and meaningful education, embracing the diversity within the workforce.

Promote the role of CG Dent in Primary Dental Care, by raising an awareness of their routes to recognition within the dental sector, for all those who contribute to the progression of oral health.

To influence decisions made, to ensure the college evolves and remains fit for purpose in the future.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

I have worked collaboratively with a wide number of organizations during the course of my career. In respect to influencing the development of dental nurses, i have developed and delivered courses from Primary to Foundation Degree level, working with organizations such as Health Education England, Skills For Health, the National Examining Board for Dental Nurses (NEBDN), Universities and several Independent training providers. Beyond my CG Dent role on the Faculty Board, i am an examiner and Subject Matter Expert for the NEBDN and continue my work with the BADN. In addition to my Presidential term, i was chair of BADN’s Executive Committee.

I can clearly demonstrate the importance of Life Long Learning, gaining several post registrable qualifications, an undergraduate degree in Primary Dental Care and a post graduate degree in Advanced and Specialist Healthcare (Applied Dental Professional Practice).

I am a team worker, quick to embrace the opinions of others.

Central London

Fazeela Khan-Osborne FCGDent

“I am currently at the end of my presidency for the London Dental fellowship, and am a board member of British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry. I enjoy and value contribution with my colleagues to organisations that uplift and promote good practice amongst our peers.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I am a GDP , qualified 30 years who has spent some time in hospital , practice and the community service . I am the founding clinician of a general practice in Central London and i have a special interest in Implant surgical and restorative treatment .

I split my clinical time in practice and also teaching post-graduate implant dentistry both in the Uk and abroad at Diploma and Masters Level.

I spend much of my spare time enjoying the cultural arts and sports with my grown children ; and also volunteering for charitable work with Childline and other overseas projects.

I enjoy the culinary arts ; film and fine dining but am also really interested in where our food comes from and how it gets to our table.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I am currently at the end of my presidency for the London Dental fellowship, and am a board member of British Academy of Aesthetic Dentistry. I enjoy and value contribution with my colleagues to organisations that uplift and promote good practice amongst our peers.

The opportunity to give back to my profession especially within the CGD would be a privilege for me especially as there are exciting developments in the pipeline which would encourage GDPs to be more involved in pathways that recognise their contribution /experience giving them pathways within their remit to progress throughout their career.

It allows me to develop leadership skills and to work within a strategic team of colleagues helping and participating in matters that will ultimately shape some of the pathways that impact on general practice .

I also feel that as i am connected to many younger colleagues that i could understand their career aspirations.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

I would aspire to all members of the team becoming part of the CGD family, with them relating to and feeling that their aspirations are being heard and represented in a manner that is progressive and balanced.

The college needs to connect with our younger colleagues to ensure that future developments and standards will be revised and maintained by GDPs moving forward . I would like the college to be involved in all aspects of mentoring and guidance which would be valid and cogent for all aspects of practice .

The career pathways are of paramount importance and this supported by educational standards being set will go some way to providing a framework which recognises and accredits colleagues who have vast experience and significant training.

I hope to be able to contribute to some of the above.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

I have a background in general practice and teaching both at university and private accredited Diploma and Masters Level courses. The groups range from 10-100 delegates .I feel that i can work in a team and also have worked at Board level both at the FGDP , BAAD and ADI.

I have held treasurer , secretary and president roles in the past and have some experience of working in large teams as well as leading and supporting roles both in education and service organisations.

Personally, i believe that coming from a large family and working in a team enables me to develops skills which are vital such as listening and understanding the viewpoint of others. I think as a GDP i can empathise with colleagues of all backgrounds and provide support and encouragement across the board.

Anthony Laurie FCGDent

“I have a lifelong passion for dentistry. I am a maverick but my views are widely accepted and appreciated. I would like to share my ethos and wealth of knowledge with a larger and new generation audience. Dentistry is a brilliant profession but it seems to have lost direction due to being overwhelmed by administrative dictates and the evolution into new technology.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

Lecture internationally. Author of numerous publications including the Technical Appendix to Failure in the Restored Dentition – Management and Treatment, by Dr Michael Wise with whom I worked for twenty years. .

Managing Director of ‘Dental Excellence (Technologies) Ltd.’ and Principal of ‘Dental Education Nurtured Through Science’. Trained at the Eastman. A Fellow of the City and Guilds, a Fellow of the College of General Dentistry. Past President of BAAD, former Director of Education for the DLA.UK Technician of the Year 2003. 2013 received a lifetime achievement award for outstanding contribution to Dentistry. My training facility, offers education and training to clinicians and technicians, I mentor students for a career in dentistry.

Married, four children, nine grandchildren. Squash player, skier and runner. Lover of classical music, enjoy most music, ballet, opera. Devoted to my wife, dog, family, friends, colleagues and students. A lover of life and the joy it brings.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I have a lifelong passion for dentistry.

I am a maverick but my views are widely accepted and appreciated. I would like to share my ethos and wealth of knowledge with a larger and new generation audience.

Dentistry is a brilliant profession but it seems to have lost direction due to being overwhelmed by administrative dictates and the evolution into new technology.

A steadying influence is much needed and I believe the college is the perfect vehicle to lead the way, nurture and support our profession.

Knowledge and understanding are the keys to our success and I would be delighted to share what I have to offer, while I still can.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

To see it recognised as the driver and lead source of excellence for our profession. For our aspirations to be honourable in nurturing oral health for the people we serve through public education on the merits of oral health.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

I am a determined, organised, passionate and fastidious individual.

Life has it’s ups and downs but I always remain positive a believe there are solutions to everything.

I have faced numerous professional challenges, which I have overcome through knowledge and kindness, care and empathy for others.

I trained myself to be good at what I do. Excellence is an aspiration, trying to achieve it is what matters. It always results in an acceptable outcome.

Living in a world that aspires to mediocrity results in an unacceptable lack of achievement.

I am a successful educator, trainer, mentor and author. I have nurtured many individuals to great success in our profession.

My business is state of the art in the heart of the City of London.

I’m up for change a progress but never throw the baby out with the bathwater.

I have a devoted successful family. I’ve got something right.

Mersey & North West

Amr Noseir AssocFCGDent

“Having dedicated over a decade to practicing dentistry in the vibrant northwest region, alongside my tenure as Clinical Director overseeing a cohort of over 120 dental professionals, I am propelled by a profound sense of duty to effect tangible change within my community.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

With a distinguished academic background originating from Egypt’s Alazhar University in 2001, I transitioned to the United Kingdom in 2003, embarking on a journey marked by professional growth and significant achievements. Having successfully completed my ORE examinations, I furthered my expertise with a Post Graduate Diploma in Endodontics from Chester University.

My professional trajectory ascended as I assumed the role of Group Clinical Director within a prominent healthcare consortium spanning the regions of north-west England, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland. A testament to my commitment to the advancement of dentistry, I fervently devote myself to nurturing the talents of young dentists and international dental graduates navigating their inaugural experiences within the UK’s dynamic healthcare landscape.

Motivated by an unwavering dedication to surpassing challenges and effecting positive change, I am resolutely driven towards realizing ambitious objectives and leaving a lasting impact within my field.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

Having dedicated over a decade to practicing dentistry in the vibrant northwest region, alongside my tenure as Clinical Director overseeing a cohort of over 120 dental professionals, I am propelled by a profound sense of duty to effect tangible change within my community. My stewardship as CEO of Tipton Training Academy underscores my commitment to fostering career advancement and professional excellence amongst dentists.

Standing for election is a natural extension of my mission to empower and guide fellow practitioners towards fulfilling career trajectories. With an established reputation for supporting international dental graduates in navigating the complexities of UK dentistry, I am impassioned to extend my advocacy to a broader scope, ensuring equitable opportunities for all within our profession.

Driven by a fervent desire to enhance the professional landscape, I am compelled to offer my expertise and leadership to propel our collective aspirations towards realization.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

My aspirations for the College of Dentistry are firmly rooted in fostering global collaboration and expanding professional pathways for dentists worldwide. Leveraging my extensive networks within Middle Eastern, African, and Indian academic institutions, syndicates, and governmental bodies, I aim to internationalize CGDent’s programs, facilitating a seamless transition for international dentists entering the UK workforce.

Central to my vision is the establishment of clear and comprehensive career pathways, ensuring the first five years of practice in the UK are navigable and enriching for all practitioners. Additionally, I am committed to bolstering regional support structures, facilitating the formation of study groups to enhance professional and personal development.

By cultivating a vibrant community of CGDent members within these regions, we can collectively elevate standards of dental practice and foster a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

My professional journey is punctuated by demonstrable examples of my ability to contribute meaningfully to the work of the Council of the College of Dentistry. Having mentored numerous young dentists through their formative years, witnessing their progression to practice ownership, academia, and specialization underscores my efficacy in nurturing talent and fostering professional growth.

My adept organizational skills, honed through years of corporate leadership and as CEO of a renowned private dental education academy, equip me to spearhead initiatives aligned with the College’s overarching vision. Collaborating closely with Health Education England (HEE), I played a pivotal role in devising and implementing medium-term courses aimed at enhancing dental practitioners’ proficiency and ensuring safe practice in the northwest.

Drawing upon this rich tapestry of experiences, I am poised to contribute proactively to the Council’s endeavours, championing innovation, excellence, and inclusivity within the realm of dental education and practice.

Janine Yazdi-Doughty FCGDent

“I decided to stand for election because I believe that I will bring a unique and valuable set of skills to the role of CGDent representative for the North West. Particularly the fusion of clinical practice, teaching, academia and business partnership. I understand dentistry in primary, secondary and tertiary care.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

My clinical background includes working with adults and children with anxieties and/or special educational needs in primary, secondary and tertiary care. Presently, I am practice partner alongside my husband at Crown Bank Dental, an award winning referral practice in the heart of Cheshire. I lead the practice “kids team”, sedation services, patient advisory group, marketing and CPD events. In addition, I’m a clinical lecturer at University of Liverpool and deliver sedation in CDS.

Since graduating in 2010, I’ve pursued my passion to be at the forefront of improving patients’ whole health. I have a masters and PhD in dental public health. I’ve published 30+ peer reviewed articles, received multiple clinical and academic awards, and am an associate Editor for Community Dental Health journal.

I’m mother to two girls aged 2&4. I enjoy taking part in triathlons and recently took up acting, performing my first monologue on stage.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I decided to stand for election because I believe that I will bring a unique and valuable set of skills to the role of CGDent representative for the North West. Particularly the fusion of clinical practice, teaching, academia and business partnership.

I understand dentistry in primary, secondary and tertiary care and I understand the importance of translating research from institutions into evidence-based primary care dental practice.

I have unique insights through my role as primary care dentistry research champion for the North West Clinical Research Network, through introducing national research projects into our own practice and my involvement with the British Dental Association Dental Academic Staff Committee. I want to share these insights with the profession and encourage more general dental practitioners to become involved in research.

I want to support the CGDent in developing policy, research and standards, and creating high quality educational resources.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

My ambitions for the organisation are to contribute to national level policy, research and standards. Particularly advocating for the involvement of primary care dentists in research and academia as well as promoting primary dental care research. I believe that research in primary care is crucial to understanding and meeting the needs of primary care dentists and their patients.

The focus of my current research is oral health stigma. In 2023, along with colleagues, I published a comprehensive description of oral health stigma. I would like to bring a wider understanding to the dental profession of the negative impacts of oral health stigma for patient mental health and wellbeing, life chances and to consider our role as dental professionals in addressing oral health stigma.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

As described above, I am ambitious and determined. I thrive in a range of different dental environments and have excelled in academia and research. Further, my research has been impactful gaining publication in the national news and multiple other newspapers around the globe.

I understand the unique challenges and opportunities of operating a mixed NHS/private dental practice. I am confident in public speaking with experience of international presenting, chairing and organising symposia. I have created novel educational material for undergraduate and postgraduate courses and CPD events. For several years I volunteered with Crisis at Christmas homeless dental service and in special care worked with vulnerable people, therefore I understand the importance of professional awareness of inclusion oral health.

I am tenacious to a fault and believe I would make an excellent CGDent representative.

Trent & East Anglia

Stuart Ellis FCGDent

“I would love to have the honour of representing Trent & East Anglia for CGDent. These are exciting times for the College and, if I am given the opportunity of representing the Members and Fellows in my region, I will do my utmost to serve you as best as I can.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I am a general dentist with a 5 surgery practice in Cambridge. I was previously an examiner for the FGDP(UK) membership examination. I have taught implant dentistry for many years and I am Director of the Cambridge Academy of Dental Implantology. I am also the Clinical Course Lead for the MSc in Advanced Dental Implantology and the MSc in General Dental Practice at Aston University. I am passionate about the improvement of postgraduate education in general dental practice. I am now coming towards the end of a Masters Degree in Medical Education at The University of Cambridge, where I also occasionally teach in this subject.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I would love to have the honour of representing Trent & East Anglia for CGDent. These are exciting times for the College and, if I am given the opportunity of representing the Members and Fellows in my region, I will do my utmost to serve you as best as I can.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

Although a relatively new organisation, the College of General Dental Practice is an important body for the national promotion of quality and standards in general dental practice. As GDPs, we are the predominant provider of dental care for the population. A high profile and respected College is an essential body to lead the dental profession into the future of dentistry.

I would like to see CGDent gain Royal College status and for the College to continue in its drive for improved career pathways in general dental practice by getting more involved in quality controlling and accrediting postgraduate qualifications which are relevant for all members of the general dental practice team. The surgical Royal Colleges are best placed for postgraduate qualifications in the specialised areas of dentistry but there remains a need for better access and quality control for general dental practice qualifications.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

As an experienced clinician and educator, I feel that I have a good understanding of how the members of our profession wish to move forwards into what should be an exciting future for dentistry. Committed dentists and dental team members need a professional body with a solid strategic plan to help us develop our careers and improve the care that we provide to our patients in general dental practice. My experience in leading postgraduate programmes should enable me to help the College continue in its goals of improving the standards of postgraduate education in general dentistry and facilitating structured career pathways for its members.

Shaun Sellars AssocFCGDent

“As a dental professional deeply invested in the well-being of patients and fellow practitioners, I am excited to submit my nomination. Having been a GDP for over 20 years, I understand the challenges and difficulties that dental professionals face daily, and I am committed to finding ways to support and uplift the community.“

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I qualified from Guys’ Hospital in London in 2002. I currently split my clinical week between mixed practice in Bury St. Edmunds and private practice in Nottingham.

In 2021, I completed a Masters’ degree in Dental Law and Ethics from the University of Bedfordshire, gaining a distinction. Following this, I have published multiple papers on subjects including evidence-based dentistry and consent. I also write a regular column on ethics for the BDJ. I am an Associate Fellow of the College of General Dentistry and a member of the BDA’s private practice subcommittee of the GDPC.

I am also a non-executive director for CDS, a social enterprise providing community dentistry for most of the East of England.

Aside from dentistry, I am a keen musician and enjoy life at home in the Suffolk countryside with my wife and Golden Retriever, Monty.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

As a dental professional deeply invested in the well-being of patients and fellow practitioners, I am excited to submit my nomination. Having been a GDP for over 20 years, I understand the challenges and difficulties that dental professionals face daily, and I am committed to finding ways to support and uplift the community.

I believe that serving on the council would be an excellent opportunity for me to use my experience and knowledge to help improve the lives of dental professionals and their patients alike. I am passionate about fostering better communication and collaboration between practitioners and promoting a more compassionate and empathetic approach to patient care.

As a council member, I would work to ensure that dental professionals’ needs and concerns are heard and addressed. I believe that working together can create a brighter future for our profession.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

I believe that the College can and should be a leading light in the profession in terms of standard setting and professional development.

I am passionate about developing career pathways for all members of the dental profession, including nurses, technicians, and therapists, so that newly qualified and experienced clinicians can have a structured future that will lead to greater career stability and success.

Similarly, many clinicians are unsure of what standards are expected of them. Updating current guidelines and developing new ones should be at the forefront of the College’s efforts. Equally, the College should ensure these guidelines are just that and not weaponised to judge us.

And finally, the College should aim to become the Royal College of General Dentistry, indicating the profession’s status in the greater realm of healthcare.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

Having qualified over twenty years ago, I understand how the dental profession has developed in its recent history. My work as a non-executive director has built on the leadership skills I developed during my Master’s degree. These skills have led me to work on a therapist training pathway and lead a GDP expansion of a specialist practice.

My collaborative approach, ability to identify key stakeholders, and build consensus around important issues will enable the Council to achieve its objectives promptly and effectively. Additionally, through my writing and lectures on ethics, I have developed the ability to communicate complex ideas to a diverse audience. I can help the Council reach a larger audience and influence policy decisions by breaking down complicated concepts into easy-to-understand terms.

I believe that these combined leadership and communication skills would make me a valuable member of the Council.

Wales

Dalip Kumar AssocFCGDent

“The College of General Dentistry sets standards which are fundamentals to the practice of dentistry in the UK. I have been practicing dentistry in Wales for many years, so I am aware about challenges faced by dental professionals in Wales related to recruitment, workforce retention and career progression.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

My name is Dalip Kumar – a founding member and Associate Fellow of the College of General Dentistry – and I am running for the election of the Wales regional seat.

I obtained MFDS of The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons, Glasgow in 2008, and BDS from India in 1994. Moreover, in 2014, I completed P G certificate in Clinical Dentistry from Cardiff University, and MSc in implant dentistry from University of Salford in 2021. I have experience of working in both clinical and research fields of dentistry. Presently, I am the principal dentist of a three-surgery NHS dental practice in Swansea, Wales.

As a current College certified facilitator of the certified membership and having acted as a council member last year, I have been an active member of the college council.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

The College of General Dentistry sets standards which are fundamentals to the practice of dentistry in the UK. I have been practicing dentistry in Wales for many years, so I am aware about challenges faced by dental professionals in Wales related to recruitment, workforce retention and career progression. I decide to stand for election so that I can put forward views and opinion of Welsh members effectively and the college can play its role advocating policies that deliver better oral health in Wales and ensure career progression of Welsh DCPs.

According to the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development), Wales has one of the lowest dentist-to-population ratios in the developed world, at just 0.4 dentists per 1,000 people. I will advocate for implementation of policies which benefits Welsh members and retention of dental workforce in Wales which will improve Welsh public oral health.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

My ambitions are to increase number of members of the College throughout the world so that maximum dental professionals can take advantage of structured career pathway which the college offer through certified membership scheme. Also, the college participation in the National policies making process for better oral health and be at front to address the issues faced by dental professionals and the public for their oral health. In addition, regular updates on standards relevant to concurrent practice, and collaborations with like-minded institutions for career progression of DCPs and better oral health of the public.

As a representative of Wales in the College, I intend to use the College as a platform to benefit the public in Wales, and work for the good of our profession which will also include study days for further learning.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

I had organised a focus group meeting in Wales for the preventive dentistry Haleon research project , and inspired and motivated others for driving their progress as a facilitator and a mentor.

I am committed to serving the community and had worked at a charity dental clinic and delivered oral hygiene education at community gatherings.This dedication motivates me to work and advocate for the best interests of members and the Public

Further, my approach will be relevant to the dental team and the range of roles that individuals perform, embracing diversity within our professional constituencies.

Tristan Roberts MCGDent

“I would love to be able to be part of something bigger and have a wider impact on the provision of dentistry. I want to help improve the standard of dentistry in Wales and provide an ear to Welsh dentists and support them to improve the standard of care they provide, whilst keeping them interested and motivated to learn.“

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I am a dentist originally from North Wales and studied in Cardiff University, where I graduated in 2013. I carried out my foundation training in North Wales and have worked in practices primarily in North and South Wales during my professional life. I was an Educational Supervisor for the past 3 years in Cardiff until I started a new role in London and am now split between Cardiff and London and work exclusively as a private dental practitioner in general practice as I wanted to develop my skills with the ‘gold standard’ approach to dentistry. I have also worked as a DCT in Cambridge, Newport and Cardiff Hospitals so I have had a taste of secondary care dentistry, and spent a year working as a dentist in New Zealand.

My personal non-dental interests include health and wellbeing, socialising, sports, philosophy, physics and I sing in a choir

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I would love to be able to be part of something bigger and have a wider impact on the provision of dentistry. I want to help improve the standard of dentistry in Wales and provide an ear to Welsh dentists and support them to improve the standard of care they provide, whilst keeping them interested and motivated to learn.

I believe this would provide an excellent opportunity for me to learn about so many aspects of dentistry that I do not currently have access to, be able to meet and discuss important issues with like minded individuals, as well as providing a sense of fulfilment that I am doing something of importance to the people around me

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

I want to make the college a valuable and attractive asset for dentists to be a part of and work together with other dental organisations and the government improve the standard of care of dentistry in the country.

I want to improve what we can offer and create a culture of growth and support.

I love the continual improvement aspect of the college and want to help provide up to date gold standard practice guidelines in a simple way that dentists can take on board effectively.

I want to use my problem solving skills to deal with the bigger issues facing dentistry

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

I am a board member of the Welsh Dental Society, where I enjoy working with like minded dentists to tackle the problems we are facing together and contribute towards creating something better for the community

I am confident in providing a voice for the public, where I have spoken on behalf of the BDA for TV and radio coverages of NHS impacts on dentistry in Wales

I am very much a people person and am always open to hearing different opinions. I am keen to improve the team aspect of the college and involvement with both NHS and private dental boards

I spend the majority of my money on courses, so I value the importance of high quality teaching and the benefits of support and mentoring on our dental journeys, I want to ensure the quality of teaching is also excellent and accessible to those who need it

West Midlands

Kaushik Paul FCGDent

“My journey in dentistry has been marked by an unwavering commitment to providing high quality of care to my patients, the pursuit of continuous learning and a drive to carve out a unique career as a General Dental Practitioner. These are synonymous with the Values that the College is striving to promote within the profession.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I am an overseas qualified dentist who started in NHS practice in the Midlands in 2005 as an associate dentist. I have been an Educational Supervisor in Foundation Training for 7 Years. I am an accredited Tier 2 Oral Surgery provider and sedation trainer. I have experience in Primary Dental Care, the Community Services, the Salaried Hospital Service, and Universities.

Currently I work as a Clinical Director for a large corporate, overseeing 150 practices in the Northwest Region. As well in helping to shape the delivery of local dental services, my role involves working collaboratively with several LATs and being a representative on several MCNs and LPNs.

Additionally I work at the Birmingham Dental Hospital as Speciality Dentist in Oral Surgery and Honorary Clinical Lecturer in Oral Surgery at the School of Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham since 2008. on a personal front I like traveling, good food and music.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

My journey in dentistry has been marked by an unwavering commitment to providing high quality of care to my patients, the pursuit of continuous learning and a drive to carve out a unique career as a General Dental Practitioner.

These are synonymous with the Values that the College is striving to promote within the profession and uniquely placed today to be the broad church that unites all strands of the dental community representing not only Dentists but colleagues from all other dental professional roles.

It would therefore be with great pride that I would join the council of CGDent to serve and progress these causes.

I have had a long association with the College staring with my roles as the Divisional MJDF tutor for the West Midland division of FGDP(UK) and more recently delivering CPD sessions on behalf of the College at the BDA dentistry shows.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

1) Amplify the College’s voice : To advocate through the College ,the needs and concerns of dental professionals across dentistry

2) Inclusivity : To seek to ensure representation from diverse backgrounds from within the wider dental team and work with colleagues on Council to inform and shape our polices and guidelines.

3) Career Pathways and Lifelong learning : to promote and develop the College’s career pathways of the modern dental team and validate high quality education for the profession

4) Collaboration with Stakeholders; To ensure college works collaboratively with Government ,Regulators, industry partners and international colleagues, and widen the sphere of influence of the college.

5) Drive up standards of Care and ensure Patient -centred care: To work towards ensuring that the college continues to set the high standards of care in oral health care and encourage the profession to deliver high quality effective patient centred care.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

1) As a Clinical Director I have to be responsive, proactive and demonstrate leadership and management skills with the ability to be accessible, innovative and problem solve .

2) I have worked in several committee such the Advisory Board for Foundation training , Working Party for NHS Commissioning Guides, and in LDN’s which has allowed me to understand how committees operate and make decisions

3) As a practicing clinician within NHS practice and hospitals , I understand the challenges facing the NHS and the workforce. This will support Council in making policy positions for NHS dentistry.

4) My background in teaching ,mentoring and educational assessment will support the College’s development of Career Pathways and the Certified Membership Scheme.

5) My experience of working with international colleagues will support the college’s ambition to provide a support network for the overseas trained workforce in the UK and work with international organisations

Kanwar Ratra MCGDent

“I was elected and served on the board of CGDent for the last three years holding the seat for the West Midlands representative. I have thoroughly enjoyed the last few years seeing the college incepted and also grow in membership and strength as well as recognition n the profession and amongst other professional bodies.“

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

Having qualified in 1999 from Liverpool Dental School I completed my MFGDP (London UK) and a PGCME from Birmingham University. 5 years post VT I opened a practice in 2005.

I acquired my second practice in 2015. A large multi-disciplinary practice in Bromsgrove and opened another new practice after converting it from an old sweet shop to The Sweet Smile on a high street in 2023. I am a partner in a fourth practice in Manchester

I have been an FD trainer from 2006-2019 and a part-time clinical lecturer at Birmingham Dental School from 2003 to 2013. I run training courses in dentistry also

I have held a position on the BDA Central Counties Branch for over a decade and served as president for two years in this time.

A love for travelling and sport and support my three children in their journey with Worcestershire County Cricket Club

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I was elected and served on the board of CGDent for the last three years holding the seat for the West Midlands representative. I have thoroughly enjoyed the last few years seeing the college incepted and also grow in membership and strength as well as recognition n the profession and amongst other professional bodies

Continuing this work with, and for its members and also supporting colleagues across all disciplines in dentistry is something I have been an advocate for for many years. General Practice should be able to stand up and be counted with a voice that should be heard.

Working with like minded people over the last three years has allowed the college to grow and, from here its needs to flourish further with the correct leadership and support from its board. I believe I have and will continue to add value to this very credible organisation for dentistry

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

To see the College of General Dentistry continually growing in membership, in its recognition amongst other professional organisations and see it receive its Royal Charter

Empowering primary dental care and seeing and hearing a voice for GDPs as well as Dental Therapists, Technicians, DCP etc. Seeing this voice grow to enable CGDent to contribute and turn the wheels of change politically, and professionally.

I would like to see CGDent engage with the government to drive change in the NHS and also create a fair and transparent system of regulation with GDC and see CGDent standing along side other colleges and be equal in stature, ability, importance and recognition.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

Owning and managing practices and understanding the challenges to dental professionals and the team I feel is invaluable to contributing and shaping the college.

I believe i have the right skill sets to interact with its members in turn allowing me to assist in taking forward suggestions and concerns to regulatory bodies such as the CQC or GDC and also trade unions like the BDA as well as government to continually drive change for the better

Being able to bring such matters as an example to the CGDent board opens a voice of the profession to deliver better learning, policy ad harmony in the profession. This is something I have decades of experience with sitting as an elected member on various panels.

I am passionate about education in the profession and supporting its younger or less experienced members is a definite focus.

Anoup Nandra FCGDent

“I decided to stand for election because I am deeply committed to advancing the field of dentistry and supporting the dental community. I believe in the college and its values and feel that serving in this role provides an opportunity to contribute to the development of dental standards, education, and professional practice.“

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

Born and raised in Birmingham, following graduation from the University of Birmingham in 2002, I undertook postgraduate training at the Eastman. Now practicing in two locations in the West Midlands, I focus on general dentistry with an interest in surgical dentistry and implantology.

I take great pride in my dental practices and the dedicated team I work with. Our commitment to excellence has driven us to continuously refine our approach, ensuring the highest standard of care for our patients.

Beyond clinical work, I’m currently pursuing a Master’s in Law to expand my knowledge and enhance my professional capabilities.

I’ve served as a clinical lecturer at the University of Birmingham and a Foundation Dental Trainer, promoting postgraduate education. Additionally, I’m a committee member of the Birmingham LDC.

Outside of dentistry, I cherish time with family and friends, along with playing cricket at the weekends, despite my modest skills on the field.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I decided to stand for election as a Council Member at the College of General Dentistry because I am deeply committed to advancing the field of dentistry and supporting the dental community. I believe in the college and its values and feel that serving in this role provides an opportunity to contribute to the development of dental standards, education, and professional practice.

The college and its previous versions have given me so much, and this is my opportunity to give back.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

My ambitions for the college involve promoting its culture of excellence, innovation, and inclusivity within the dental community.

I would like to be given an opportunity to collaborate with fellow members and stakeholders to elevate the standards of dental care, promote continuous professional development, and advance patient outcomes. By fostering collaboration and communication among members, I hope to help create a supportive environment that empowers dentists to thrive in their careers and deliver the highest quality care to patients.

Ultimately, my goal is to contribute to the College’s mission of advancing the art and science of dentistry for the betterment of our wonderful profession.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

Over the years, I have cultivated a skill set that I believe will contribute meaningfully to the work of the Council.

As a clinical lecturer, mentor and Foundation Dental Trainer, I’ve honed leadership abilities by guiding the next generation of professionals. Effective communication, essential for collaboration, has been central in my roles interacting with patients and colleagues. I’ve developed strong problem-solving skills through analysing complex clinical cases. My commitment to continuous learning, ensures I stay updated on the latest developments and techniques in and around dentistry.

I have experience of working with a large membership as I am one of the administrators of an online group with 20,000 members and I can bring insight from what I have learnt from this role. Lastly, my collaborative approach, fostered through teamwork in clinical and non-clinical settings, enables me to work harmoniously with fellow Council members towards shared objectives.

Yorkshire & Northern

Matthew Collins FCGDent

“I have been on the board in a national seat for the last three years, with the last year as Vice President. I have found the experience stimulating and interesting and have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure so far. I am very keen to continue on the board to help forge our way towards a Royal Charter.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

I am a GDP and practice owner in Yorkshire and have further training in prosthodontics and implants. Our 10 surgery practice has been involved in the FD scheme for over 20 years.

I have been involved in the Faculty since gaining membership in 2001. I am passionate about educational progression and mentoring, so following on from attaining my fellowship in 2010 I became a facilitator for the award. In 2021 I was elected to the board for one of the national seats. I have embraced being part of the transition from FGDP into CGDent and endeavoured to add value wherever possible. Last year I was elected as Vice President and have supported the President to steer the college in the direction set by the trustees.

I have 2 teenage boys and an orthodontist wife. Together as a family we enjoy most sports, especially rugby, skiing and the gym.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

I have been on the board in a national seat for the last three years, with the last year as Vice President.

I have found the experience stimulating and interesting and have thoroughly enjoyed my tenure so far.

I am very keen to continue on the board to help forge our way towards a Royal Charter. I feel I have the skill set and the energy to add value to the organisation and represent our region.

My involvement with the college since 2001 demonstrates my commitment to it and what is stands for.

Your vote would be gratefully appreciated and to allow me to continue in a role within the College.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

As a College we need to continue to define our career pathway so the whole team has a clear vision of what we represent and how we can support them as members throughout their career.

Progressing the College towards a Royal Charter is an important next step. We strive to raise standards for the whole team, enabling all team members to be the best professional version of themselves.

Increasing awareness of the College is paramount, so all dentists and their team members are inspired to become members.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

I have been a practice owner and LDC Chair for many years and also Vice Chair of the Yorkshire Forum of LDCs. I am well experienced in chairing meetings and being able to keep meetings on track. This allows robust discussions on relevant topics and the direction required to reach decisions. All the above roles involve working as part of a larger team, requiring constructive intervention to progress ideas. I am organised, considered, tactical and prudent, which are all necessary attributes to work successfully with a wider team.

Thomas Stapleton AssocFCGDent

“Standing for election to a possible seat at the College of General Dentistry offers a unique opportunity to contribute actively to the advancement of the college and dental profession. Since taking up a position as Leeds Dentinal Tubules study club lead, I have first hand experience managing colleagues and advocated for their interests and concerns.”

Click here for candidate statements

Tell us a little about yourself, your background and your professional and personal interests.

After completing my PhD in tissue engineering, I decided to look to a career in dentistry. Following completion of my BChD I have furthered my training by taking the MJDF, Postgraduate certificate in restorative dentistry through the Dominic Hassall Academy and multiple other courses. This culminated with me completing a Diploma in Endodontics with distinction through Simply Endo and the University of Chester. This has allowed me to take a position of clinical lead at a group of private dental practices as well as taking external referrals for endontic. Outside of dentistry, I have a young family of which we love to take walks in the Yorkshire countryside. I also love CrossFit gym and reading to keep me physically and mentally in shape.

Why did you decide to stand for election?

Standing for election to a possible seat at the College of General Dentistry offers a unique opportunity to contribute actively to the advancement of the college and dental profession. Since taking up a position as Leeds Dentinal Tubules study club lead, I have first hand experience managing colleagues and advocated for their interests and concerns of which I have taken a lot of enjoyment. Additionally, holding a seat at the college would provide a platform to collaborate with colleagues, share expertise, and influence policy decisions that shape the direction of the college in my area and subsequently the profession.

I feel I am at an age and experience where I may now be able to benefit my peers in their career choices and progression.

What are your ambitions for the organisation?

In the ever-evolving landscape of dentistry, it is my hope that the College envisions a future marked by innovation, inclusivity, and excellence in patient care. The college should look to position itself to lead the profession into new frontiers of research, education, and practice. Embracing technological and theoretical advancements, the college should

empower its members with cutting-edge tools and knowledge, enabling them to deliver superior dental care tailored to the diverse needs of their patients. As ever fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional development is the backbone of these goals.

Give some examples from your professional or personal life that show you have the right skill set to make a contribution to the work of the Council.

Clinical – Clinical Lead and DWSI.

Leadership – Dentinal Tubules Study Club Lead.

Outside of dentistry skill set – worked in multiple scientific industries prior to enrolling in dentistry

Age/Maturity – at a period in my life when I have more flexibility to take on other roles, especially as I am not burdened by practice ownership

Networking – generally good contacts throughout dentistry

REMINDERS: VOTES SHOULD BE CAST THROUGH THE UNIQUE LINK SENT TO ELIGIBLE MEMBERS BY MI-VOICE BY EMAIL; VOTING CLOSES AT 10AM ON FRIDAY 24 MAY 2024

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College of General Dentistry Blog

The year in review

Dr Mick Horton FCGDent, Chair of Trustees, reviews the College’s achievements over the past twelve months.

It’s an honour for me to take on the role of Chair of Trustees, following Janet Clarke MBE FCGDent who stepped down in April 2023. Janet remains with us as a Trustee, so we continue to benefit from her wise counsel and breadth of experience.

The last twelve months started with the President, Dr Abhi Pal FCGDent, giving oral evidence to the House of Commons Health and Social Care Select Committee on dental services in England, and drew to a close as the UK Government announced its “Dental Recovery Plan”. There’s no doubt that we live in febrile times, with the inadequacies and inequity of dental service provision ever more prominent in the public consciousness. The College is in a unique position to offer a constructive view: reflecting interests across the dental team, across the UK, and bridging private and NHS care provision. It is no surprise, then, that we find ourselves actively invited to contribute in the debate – and we seek to do so in a measured way, and with the independence, broad perspective and authority that you would expect. You will see more of our work in the year ahead to develop our policy thinking, with a new Parliament taking office later this year.

Core to our mission is dental education and training. The role of our College needs careful thought, in a rapidly evolving, diverse and confusing market: it is no longer enough for us to act as just another provider of training when others are better equipped for that role. But we are very clear that all dental professionals need support in making the right choices for their career progression and skills development. Building on the Career Pathways which we published in 2022, we have been working to develop our approach: helping dental professionals to make wise investment for their future. Certified Membership was opened to its first candidates early in 2023, providing mentored support. Later in the year, we added those qualifications which we judge to meet key requirements – “recognised qualifications” – to the CGDent Register of Members & Fellows. Watch out for further announcements as our longer-term plans fall into place.

It’s intimidating to be starting a career in dentistry these days, with so much choice of paths to follow, and pressure to follow the crowd. But there is help and support out there from committed and experienced members of the profession, and we think we can help. With the generous support of the Tom Bereznicki Foundation, in November we ran our first NextGen leadership event for dental students and Dental Foundation Trainees, in Manchester. Moving forward, we aim to build on this initiative.

Preventative care and advice is so obviously a long-term priority, and particularly for children; and yet the urgency of a lack of access to urgent treatment makes it difficult to keep prevention on the agenda. We are partnering with Haleon (formerly GSK) to develop our own thinking on the future role of dental practices, and the whole dental team, in this respect. A number of dental practices have generously hosted a series of discussions around the UK, and you will be hearing about the feedback and conclusions in the months ahead.

The Primary Dental Journal continues to grow as essential reading, and in 2023 we published three authoritative themed issues encompassing aesthetic dentistry, which spanned two issues, and dental trauma – essential references to have beside you. Beyond the themed issues, the PDJ is attracting an increasing number of exceptional papers, too, giving us two rich “General Dentistry” issues in the year. We are looking forward to themed issues in 2024/25 on Implant Dentistry and Oral Medicine.

Our Fellows’ Receptions are ever more eagerly awaited, and we filled the wonderful Cutlers’ Hall in June and in January – bringing together senior professionals to build new relationships and foster a community of leadership. We were honoured to recognise a number of achievements, including the admission of so many new Fellows of the College. We have plans to build on the Fellows Reception to offer more for our members and to strengthen bonds within the College.

Finally, our Honorary Founding President, Nairn Wilson CBE FCGDent, was recognised with a knighthood for his contribution to dentistry over a long and remarkable career – in which the formation of the College has surely been the particularly historic achievement (and highlighted in his citation). Sir Nairn continues to inspire us, as we work to build secure foundations for the future. The College’s own special recognition, the College Medal, was awarded to Andrew Hadden, who continues in his notable contribution to the College and profession as Editor of the College’s Clinical Examination & Record Keeping. Their service, and that of so many others, gives us hope for the future.

Thank you for your support.

Mick Horton

You may be interested in Janet Clarke’s blog reviewing the College’s second Annual Members’ Meeting in March 2023.

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College of General Dentistry News

Dental leaders discuss workforce challenges

Senior College members took part in a recent panel discussion on the question of ‘How do we support and retain our workforce and ensure that they have the right skills to meet future challenges?’.

The discussion covered skills development both for the individual and across the profession, the importance of teamwork to staff retention, making great places to work, supporting team members to manage stress, and preventing career burn out. Speaking on behalf of the College, Dr Abhi Pal FCGDent, then President, and Dr Debbie Reed FCGDent, Board Chair of the CGDent Faculty of Dental Nursing and Orthodontic Therapy, also pressed home the need for recognised Career Pathways for all members of the dental team, and the vital role of mentoring as part of the solution for addressing workforce retention issues. The other panel members were Dr Catherine Tannahill MCGDent, Director of Clinician Engagement of Portman Dental, and Dr Dhru Shah, CEO of Dentinal Tubules.

The session was part of a meeting of dental leaders from across the UK, which was held in London on 14 March on the theme of ‘Maintaining an effective workforce fit for the future’. The day also included a panel discussion on the government’s ‘Recovery Plan’ for NHS dentistry in England, and presentations from Andrea Sutcliffe CBE, Chief Executive of the Nursing and Midwifery Council, on role, values and culture; from Ashley Byrne FCGDent, Board Member of the Dental Laboratories Association, on the challenges facing dental technology; from Theresa Thorp, GDC Executive Director for Regulation, who provided insights from the GDC’s work pattern data exercise; and from Stefan Czerniawski, GDC Executive Director for Strategy, on provisional registration.  

The ‘Dental Leadership Network’ is convened quarterly by the General Dental Council to facilitate shared ownership in addressing key challenges facing the profession.

Dr Pal commented:

“The formation of the Dental Leadership Network is a positive step in bringing together key stakeholders and leaders within the profession to discuss current issues.”

Stefan Czerniawski said:  

“It’s really valuable for leaders across the dental sector to invest time in discussing the shared issues that affect us all and, most importantly, patients. Collaboration and ownership only works if the whole of the dental world is engaged.”

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