"Get inspired, become a member" says the BACD
Becoming a member of a professional dental organisation or association can often bring practitioners a wealth of benefits that make it well worth the time and investment. For those in the early stages of their career, it illustrates to the community that you are serious about your work and your continued professional development. It is also a way of expressing your credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of both patients and fellow associates, helping to distinguish you from other applicants as you seek the right role to suit you.
Many associations sponsor workshops and conventions that allow members to stay up to date on the latest industry innovations, research and trends. Journals, bulletins and newsletters, websites and list-serves are exclusive resources that should be utilised from the beginning of your career, as they allow you to remain informed and knowledgeable for the future.
The courses, seminars and lectures that some associations offer give members the opportunity to explore the work of others in the profession and discuss them with peers. It is an effective way of sharing information and opinions about previous experiences or topics of interest. Members are able to learn from each other and apply the knowledge they accumulate to everyday practice, which could prove to be helpful to you as a young dentist.
Becoming a member of an association may present you with the chance to attend meaningful training programmes that will add further value to your progression, and continue to motivate you as you build on your experience as a practitioner. Conferences and meetings held throughout the year are often a great way to explore the wider dental community – allowing you to play a more active role. You can feel part of a society, where members are able to listen and learn from the expertise of both national and international speakers that carry a wealth of experience behind them.
The British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry (BACD) is one of the most successful and well-established associations in dentistry, offering members highly educational opportunities through various programmes and social events. Sowmya Simon, a runner-up in the 2017 BACD’s Foundation Dentist Best Case Presentation Award, shares her experience: “I think the BACD is a particularly excellent platform for young dentists to get involved with as they can enhance their skills and knowledge from early on in their career.”
BACD membership is both cost-effective and relevant, providing a reliable support system to any new dental practitioner looking to improve their credibility and quality of care.
Joining the right organisation offers you the opportunity to share your knowledge and skill with many other like-minded individuals, allowing you to grow your professional network effectively. It is a key element to the development and success of a career in dentistry, as it can not only enrich your life as a practitioner but motivate you as you build on your expertise.
To discover more about the British Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry visit www.bacd.com.
