Community at every stage of your career

Endodontic developments

As technology plays a constantly growing role in all areas of dentistry, staying ahead of the trends is crucial.[i]This is true both in the surgery and the practice as a whole, as digital workflows aim to improve the patient’s and dental team’s experience throughout the entire journey. Whether you are new to the profession, or have a wealth of experience in endodontics, networking with a wide range of clinicians working in the endodontic field allows you to observe the systems and equipment they use and the techniques they’re using – whether they have adopted a minimally invasive approach, are using a more effective irrigation technique, or are diagnosing more effectively.ⁱ This presents the opportunity to share best practice, allowing you to emulate the aspects which might work best for you, and boost results for your patients.

New to endo?

Endodontics is a particularly exciting field of dentistry, encompassing a range of professionals with various levels of experience looking to offer their expertise. Making contact with professionals from far and wide who may offer educational courses, or shadowing opportunities, is hugely beneficial to dentists new in the field.ⁱ

Additionally, meeting those who are in the same position as you can help to build a sense of community in what may feel like a daunting situation. When embarking on a new career path, it can be reassuring to be connected with a number of peers who are facing similar challenges and are seeking opportunities to learn and grow. In the dental profession, community can be incredibly valuable – allowing practitioners to connect with others, reach collective and individual goals, and enjoy a sense of safety and security.[ii]

Experienced clinicians

Joining a network of endodontists is also a fantastic way for experienced clinicians to further their skills, and build their professional reputation. This presents new career opportunities which allow you to gain influence in your area. Working within a supportive community will help you to accelerate this, by building lasting relationships with others in your profession and gaining even greater respect for your work.ⁱ It also presents opportunities to mentor those who are new to the field, and support them throughout their career development, providing leadership opportunities and allowing you to reinforce or expand your knowledge on areas of interest.ⁱ

Community for all

Regardless of your experience in the profession, or level of expertise, becoming a part of an established community can be beneficial. For some, celebrating worldwide events, such as World Endodontic Day, can be a fantastic way to engage with the global community, while learning from world-class speakers and gaining insight into techniques and concepts being utilised in the UK and abroad.

The British Endodontic Society (BES) is a fantastic example of such a community. Its aim is to advance endodontology to improve the health of the nation, and encourage the lifelong education of practitioners. Members of the Society enjoy discounted rates at BES events and gain membership to the European Society of Endodontology for a wide range of networking opportunities both within the UK and internationally. In addition, for those who are new to endodontics, the BES Early Career Group (ECG) aims to help further the education and training for dental professionals at the early stages of their career. Members also enjoy a monthly copy of the International Endodontic Journal, as well as the opportunity to enter for BES Prizes and Awards which recognise and support their work.

No matter whether you are new to the field of endodontics, or have many years of experience, becoming a part of an established professional community can help you to develop your career, stay ahead of the developing trends, and gain the support of likeminded peers. Not only does a community benefit the individual, but it is able to drive forward the goals of the profession as a whole, with an enhanced ability to meet collective aims.ⁱⁱ