As we move into the final months of 2025, it is a pleasure to reflect on the events held by the Northern Ireland branch and to look ahead to those still to come. The past year has been marked by strong attendance at branch events, meaningful engagement and a renewed sense of community among dental professionals across the region.
It has been an honour to serve as branch president. I have had the privilege of meeting colleagues at all stages of their careers, and I have been struck by the warmth and generosity with which members continue to welcome one another. Whether attending lectures, social events or informal gatherings, the branch has consistently demonstrated its value as a space for learning, support and connection.
Cost-of-Service Review
We have received further correspondence from the Department of Health in recent days regarding an analysis of the costs involved in running a dental practice. Professor Ciaran O’Neill has been appointed to take this forward, and we will meet with him in the very near future to discuss the methodology to ensure it comprehensively captures practice costs with providing care.
Read our news article on the Cost-of-Service Review.
Insightful lectures
Six of the 10 most well-attended branch events across the UK have taken place here in Northern Ireland. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to the commitment of our members, speakers and organisers. Our lecture programme has been particularly well received, with events held in the Great Hall and Riddell Hall drawing large and engaged audiences.
We are grateful to our speakers, including Caroline Lappin, Trevor Burke, Len D’Cruz and Eiad Qudairat, who shared their clinical insights and experience with us. Roz McMullan’s session on managing stress was especially timely, and Phil McEvoy and Peter Kilpatrick provided valuable guidance on pensions.
Behind each successful event lies a great deal of unseen work, and I would like to thank everyone involved in planning, promoting and delivering our programme. Their efforts ensure that our events run smoothly and continue to meet the needs of our members.
Supporting the next generation of dentists
We hosted a dedicated evening for undergraduate students in March. The event was well attended and warmly received, and it marked an important step in strengthening our relationship with younger members of the profession. We hope to build on this success and to see more students and early-career dentists becoming active in the branch.
We recognise that the transition from study to practice can be daunting. By creating opportunities for students to meet experienced colleagues, ask questions and build networks, we aim to foster a sense of belonging and professional confidence from the outset.
Social events and new connections
The branch continues to offer a varied calendar of CPD and social events. 55 members spent a particularly enjoyable evening at Ulster Rugby, with an exciting match and good food. These informal events provide a welcome break from the pressures of practice and a chance to build new friendships.
Looking ahead, our main social event this autumn is the gala ball at the Europa Hotel on Saturday 18 October, and I encourage all members to attend and to bring a friend or colleague.
Autumn lecture series
Identifying and managing orofacial pain disorders by Dermot Canavan, and a deep dive into botulinum toxin treatments by Dr Mairead Browne will be the areas of focus at our CPD evening on Tuesday 21 October. On Thursday 20 November we will be joined by Dr Ian Dunn who will lecture on the Perio-Ortho interface, while David Kennedy will provide an overview of modern orthodontics and GDP considerations. The November evening will also combine our branch AGM and BDA Benevolent Fund fundraiser.
Attend one of our social and learning events.
The importance of a supportive network in difficult times
Dentistry in Northern Ireland continues to face significant challenges. Whether working in general practice under a failing contract, or in hospitals and community settings that are chronically understaffed, many colleagues are operating in difficult and often demoralising conditions.
Despite the tireless efforts of BDA staff and committee chairs, progress remains slow and frustrating.
In such a context, the importance of coming together cannot be overstated. Branch events offer not only opportunities for professional development but also a vital space for mutual support. Sharing experiences, exchanging ideas and simply spending time with others who understand the pressures of the job can make a real difference.
Nevertheless, our members continue to provide high-quality care to patients across Northern Ireland. Their resilience and professionalism are commendable, and the branch remains committed to supporting them in every way possible.
Looking forward
I would like to thank our sponsors, whose support enables us to offer such a varied and active programme, and I encourage members to speak with them at our CPD evenings.
As we approach the end of the year, I extend my best wishes to all members. Whether working in NHS or private practice, your dedication to patient care is deeply valued. I look forward to meeting many of you at our upcoming events, and to continuing the work of building a strong, supportive and successful branch.
We are always keen to welcome new colleagues to our branch events. And to new and returning dentists to Northern Ireland, we wish to extend a special invitation to you to come along to our branch events and be part of our welcoming and vibrant dental community.