At the centre of it all

Arriving at a sun-filled parliament square for this year’s British Orthodontic Society (BOC) conference at the Queen Elizabeth Centre, it was hard not to feel the familiar buzz of excitement that is ever present in the heart of London at the start of such an event. With fine weather, delegates, and members looked forward to a varied (and surprisingly interactive) programme, it was safe to say there was nothing but optimism and a strong sense of community as all sat down for this year’s conference to commence.

This year’s programme began with a warm welcome from Trevor Hodge, consultant orthodontist, encouraging delegates to take advantage of all this year’s event had to offer. Next, dentist Simon Graf spoke in detail about 3D metal printing and its current uses withian orthodontics. Simon used an evidence-based pyramid to make clear how 3D metal printing has evolved over time and questioned a ‘disruptive new technology’ or a vital element of modern-day orthodontics. He made a humorous reference to JOMO, (the joy of missing out) and how many professionals can be somewhat resistant to new technologies, but that in order to continue improving the patient’s experience it is important to remember, “We don’t change the world, but for some patients, we can change theirs!”. The final takeaway from this session was that things will always continue to get better if as an industry everyone works together, and above all else rather than resisting the new, “Stay curious!”.