daa newsletter_prof may 2011_web

www.nswdaa.asn.au

CONTACT DETAILS:PO Box 40 Westgate NSW 2048 Ph/Fax: (02) 9569 3220 www.nswdaa.asn.au Email: [email protected] the Cusp is published quarterly by the NSW Dental Assistants (Professional) Association, distributed to subscribers and members to facilitate pursuit of a common ground in promoting the interests and issues of Dental Assisting.

Hi Members!

Once again, I hope this issue finds you all well and gaining some satisfaction in your dedicated roles as Dental Assistants. As always there

are lots of things happening in our association. Do consult your social calendar and professional development series lectures as they are worthwhile, valuable and enjoyable.

I would like to welcome Linda to the NSW DAA office. Linda is our Office Administrator and we look forward to an enjoyable working relationship.

I enjoyed reading Lily’s story in this newsletter about her time with the Remote Area Health Corps. It is something I have often considered doing myself. It is admirable to give back to the community and what better way than in an area of such great need - oral health in remote areas.

You will see an article on animal oral health. I had an expensive experience lately with my own beloved pooch that was costly and also time consuming, not to mention the hair covered seats in my new car!

I hope you have all marked the date for Big Day Out in your calendar. It is our association’s major event every year and one we really do need your support with. If you have any ideas or can assist in anyway please contact our association we would be very happy to hear from you.

This will be my last edition as your editor for On the Cusp. I have enjoyed bringing the newsletter to our members over the last 3 years but now feel it is time to let someone else take over the reins. It has presented many opportunities being the Editor and I feel like I have become a stronger member of the dental assistant community. I encourage you to consider taking on this role. The newsletter is printed four times a year giving you plenty of time to collate articles and information to present. It is also a great skill to have listed on your resume. Thank you to those of you who have supported me during my time as Editor, I look forward to reading the next newsletter from the other side of the fence!

I will still continue my involvement as a committee member and hope to catch up with you at some of the social or professional functions. Wishing you all the very best.

Kindest regards,

Ros Christopoulos Editor

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ADVERTISINGAdvertising space is available

in the newsletter. For more information you may contact the office on 9569 3220 or by

email: [email protected]

GREETINGS FROm yOuR EDITOR

IN THIS ISSuE:Greetings from your Editor 1President’s Report 2Social Group 2upcoming Events 3My Experience with the Remote Area Health Corps by Lily Lewington 4Professional Development Workshops 5NSW DAA & HSu union Insert 6Oral Hygiene for your Dog 8Class of 2010 9News from Overseas 10And at Home... 12Book Review 12Dental Mental Therapy 12Make 2011 - Your Year 13Thank-you letter from Melanie Zammit 14Meet our Members 16Laughs and Funny Moments... 16

OuR WEBSITEThe website

www.nswdaa.asn.auis a great place to check out the latest information, events and

activities the NSW DAA is doing for the members of the association.

Please let us know if you would prefer to receive your

newsletter by email.

http://www.nswdaa.asn.au


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Since our last issue we have heard of horrific natural disasters in Australia,

New Zealand and in Japan. We’ve seen and heard of the devastating stories with unbelievable pictures and shared prayers for people we do not know, but feel for immensely.

As dental assistants with skills in patient care, we may be able to help these people through a number of organisations who are looking for volunteers. Two of these organisations are: The National Dental Foundation (NDF) and the Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC).

The NDF will be holding their NSW volunteer Days in March and August this year. volunteers will be helping organisations such as Youth off the Streets.

For more information phone 0416 207 171 or e-mail [email protected]

The Remote Area Health Corps sends volunteers to Indigenous communities in the Northern Territory. Please read Lily Lewington’s article in this issue for more information and for Lily’s experience in the NT.

I would like to welcome Linda Dickinson to the role of Office Assistant. Our office is now open Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday between 10.00am and 4.00pm. Other days, please leave a message on our answering machine or e-mail [email protected]

I would like to invite all Dental Assistants to the NSW DAA General Meeting Saturday 21st May 2011 commencing at 4pm.

President’s rePort may 2011

Find out what your association has be doing over the last 6 months and what direction DAA is heading in the next 6months. Non members cannot vote at the meeting but they are very welcome to join in discussion and to share their thoughts and ideas for our association. So members, if you are working with a non member please invite them to join you and attend this meeting. Also, encourage them to join their professional association committed to promoting and supporting Dental Assistants.

Cheers, Beverley MetcalfPresident NSW Dental Assistants’ (Professional) [email protected]

social Group

S unday 27th March, we met for a Rock’n’Roll Harbour Luncheon Cruise. Even though the rain was

falling it didn’t dampen our cruise. We left King St Wharf, sailed around to the Fish Markets while enjoying a delicious buffet lunch. After lunch and cruising towards Manly the ‘One Eyed Cats’ had the dance floor crowded and everyone singing. The boat was rocking. Three hours later we returned back at King St Wharf. Another fantastic cruise.For those who missed out this year jot the last Sunday in March (25th) in your 2012 diaries. There is no Harbour in the world as beautiful as our Sydney Harbour.

One Eyed CatsRock 'n' Roll dance floorRock 'n' Roll Harbour

Luncheon Cruise

Next social night is at the Baulkham Hills Sports Club, 11 Renown Road Baulkham Hills NSW - on Friday, 10th June at 7pm. This is a community club, great food and a relaxing atmosphere. Why not join us for a meal and a chat. Partners and friends welcome.

Christmas in July is on Saturday 30 July. All Christmas in July venues need numbers that will be attending. If you are interested in joining us for this event, please let me know by 25 June. If you have a favourite venue I am also interested in hearing about it. E-mail: [email protected] On The Cusp


www.nswdaa.asn.au page 3

2011 Time Event VenueSat 21 May 3.30pm NSW DAA union Committee Meeting NSW DAA Professional Centre

4/116 Percival Road (entry from Temple Street) Stanmore

Sat 21 May 4.00pm NSW DAA Professional General Meeting - All persons with an interest in dental assisting warmly welcome

NSW DAA Professional Centre 4/116 Percival Road (entry from Temple Street) Stanmore

Sat 28 May 9.00am- 12.00pm

Professional Development Workshop Looking after your finances – Know your Award wages & conditions; Taxation and your return

NSW DAA Professional Centre 4/116 Percival Road (entry from Temple Street) Stanmore

Fri 10 June 7.00pm DAA Social Night - Dinner & Drinks Baulkham Hills Sports Club 11 Renown Rd, Baulkham Hills

Sat 25 June 9.00am – 1.00pm

Gunz Dental Product Workshop NSW DAA Professional Centre 4/116 Percival Road (entry from Temple Street) Stanmore

Tues 26 July 8.30am – 5.00pm

Forensic Dentistry for the Dental Assistant - ADA NSW Branch CPD

Lecture Theatre 2, Westmead Hospital, Westmead [email protected]

Sat 30 July 7.00pm DAA Christmas in July Bookings essential - venue tba

Sat 13 Aug 8.45am – 4.45pm

Infection Prevention - Ms Terry McAuley – Infection Control Consultant

Sydney CBD Hotel

Sat 13 Aug 9.00am - 5.00pm

Dental Assisting and Beyond Conference DAA QLD Annual Conference See http://daaqld.com/assets/DAAQ-EOI-2011.pdf

Fri 9 Sept 8.45am – 5.00pm

NSW DAA Big Day Out Conference “dentalnetworking.com.au”

Novotel, Sydney Olympic Park, Homebush

Upcoming EVEnTs

BIG DAy OuT FRIDAy 9TH SEPTEmBER, 2011

Make sure you mark it in your diary.This year promises to bigger and better than ever!

Please let us know if you would prefer to receive your newsletter electronically.

Ph: 02 9569 3220 Email: [email protected]


www.nswdaa.asn.au

After three great years working as a Dental Assistant in private practice, I realised I wanted to

give more back to the community. So in February 2010 I decided to gain further experience by changing my work environment and applying for a placement with the Remote Area Health Corps (RAHC). RAHC is a Federally funded program that recruits and supports urban-based health professionals, including dental health professionals, for short-term paid placements in remote Indigenous communities throughout the Northern Territory (NT).After applying with RAHC and undergoing their credentialing process I was offered a placement working with the NT Government Department of Health (DoH) servicing remote communities in the Top End as part of their oral health program. My first placement was in April 2010. I arrived in Darwin and was met and taken by RAHC to participate in their two day cultural and clinical training and 4WD awareness program. I also undertook orientation and system training with DoH and met the DoH team and the dentist I was going to work with on my placement.

I then flew out to provide dental treatment to four different remote communities, all within a four week period! It was a brilliant way to start this adventure, as I was able to immerse myself in a new culture and clinical environment and see many beautiful places and faces in a short amount of time. After the first week I was hooked! I knew this field of work was something I felt very passionate about and enjoyed putting my energy into. I informed RAHC of my eagerness to go back out, requesting more placements. To my delight I was offered another placement for the following month.So far I have completed eight placements over a 12 month period and travelled to many communities in the Top End assisting both dentists and dental therapists. The communities I have worked in include Milingimbi, Ramingining, Numbulwar, Gapuwiyak, Gunbalanya, Wadeye, Borroloola, Nhulunbuy, and Yirrkala. These are all such beautiful communities, with amazing people and stories.My fondest memories and experiences on this adventure include flying to and from communities by small aircraft, seeing both aerial and ground views of the extraordinary landscape (something a camera cannot capture), making wonderful relationships with the Indigenous people and the health staff I have worked with, and learning more and more about clinical skills and fascinating Indigenous culture.

My daily tasks involve surgery preparation, instrument cleaning and sterilisation, infection control, patient preparation, chair-side assisting, monitoring and controlling stock, computer and paper patient filing and general surgery/sterilisation maintenance. For each placement DoH provides a ‘bush kit’ that you take with you that has all instruments, medications and perishables. Remote work isn’t always easy. You can come across many obstacles which push you to think outside the box and utilise the limited resources you have. But in saying this, being out of your comfort zone is one of the many parts of this job that I love! Every day is a new challenge and this job is never boring!I encourage any dental professionals to take part in this fantastic program, not only to help close the gap in health outcomes between non-Indigenous and Indigenous people, but to broaden your own knowledge and skills and share experiences with others. I feel very fortunate to be given the opportunity to do what I love - dentistry and being enriched clinically and culturally. I have made many amazing friends and acquired professional and personal experiences I will never forget. I am forever grateful.

For more information about RAHC placements, visit the website: www.rahc.com.au

On The Cusp

Lily Lewington

my experience with the remote area Health Corpsby Lily Lewington

http://www.rahc.com.au



O n Saturday 16 April, 3M Espe hosted our Impression Material & Pouring up Models Workshop

at their Pymble Office.The workshop opened with a presentation on the impression materials, the difference in materials and why the necessity for the different body consistency of the materials. The different impression trays available, the new preformed temporary crown forms and the procedures the dental technician uses to make the crown/bridge.

After a short morning tea break the hands on session commenced. Divided into three groups - one (1) mixing and loading the impression tray for a crown impression, then placing the tray onto a model, checking the margin; two (2) mixing alginate, placing the alginate into a tray and then pouring up our own models using the lab vibrator; three (3) choosing the right size preformed temporary crown, placing it and adjusting the temporary crown for the correct occlusion.

There were 16 DA's attending this workshop and all went home with a better understanding on what the value of a good impression is to the dentist, the dental technician and to the patient.Thank you Teresa, Cheryl, Christina and Andrew from 3M Espe. On The Cusp

Professional development Workshops by Bev metcalf

Impression Material & Pouring up Models Workshop




R ural dentists want moremoney in next month’s Federal Budget to go to oral

health care programs.A report from the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare says about 40 per cent of Australians don’t have regular check-ups, while another 30 percent say they can neither afford or easily access a dentist.

The Australian Dental Association is calling for a re-direction of government funding in the next Budget from public dentistry towards areas of greatest need, like rural and remote communities.Bruce Simmons, of the Rural Dentists Network, says more money should go towards preventative oral health programs.

He also wants to see oral health incorporated into primary health policy.“Dentistry is primarily seen as a private contact between the patient and the dentist; there’s virtually no policy that addresses oral health within a primary health care framework,” he said.“It should be absolutely critical that oral health be part of primary health care.” On The Cusp

Further to Lily’s article: rural dentists want more Budget funding Wednesday, 27/04/2011 source: abc rural news




www.nswdaa.asn.au

www.hsu.asn.au

Address: Level 2, 109 Pitt Street Sydney NSW 2000 | Freecall: 1300 478 679 | Fax: 1300 329 478 | Email: [email protected] | ABN 85 037 751 682

Saturday 26 March 2011, was an Election Day for the DAA union. The new committee will take office on the 1st July 2011. The elected committee is:

President: Beverley Metcalf

Vice President/Secretary: Linda Dominick

Assistant Secretary:Barbara Hayes

treasurer: Joanne Tomkins

Committee members: Rosalyn Christopoulos Michele Horst Wendy Scriven Deborah Warnock

The NSW DAA union has an agreement with Health Services union East to provide a full range of industrial and membership services.

Industrial complaints and problems at work seem to be on an increase. It is recommended that you think seriously about joining the union if you are not yet a member. Do not wait until a situation arises in your work place to ask for assistance from the union. We urge you to become a member of the union NOW.

Another very important point is not to let your union membership lapse. Rejoining after a lapsed membership means you will receive only a limited amount of assistance from the union and this maybe not be enough to see you through a complex and possibly expensive case.

NSW DAA (Professional) is a separate identity to the NSW DAA union. Therefore, if you are not a union member and contact the NSW DAA (Professional) you will receive a minimum amount of information on industrial and wage enquiries. union members can contact HSu, quote their membership number and receive full support with all industrial and wage enquiries.

For a union membership brochure/application form contact: NSW DAA union, PO Box 40, Westgate NSW 2048 or phone/fax 02 9569 3220,

nsW daa & HsU Union insert

http://www.hsu.asn.au



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mailto:[email protected]

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oral Hygiene For your dog - Keeping your dog’s teeth Clean source: doglics.com

Note from the Editor: having just paid $500 to my vet to remove my 11 year old Labradors molar, this story has some appeal to me.

As humans we understand the importance of keeping our teeth clean and are taught oral

hygiene from a young age. Dogs are also susceptible to oral diseases such as gingivitis, and yet we often overlook the importance of our dogs dental hygiene.There are numerous methods that can be used to aid oral hygiene for your dog, and things to watch out for that can cause great harm to your dogs teeth.Games While various backyard sports are enjoyed by all the family, there are some sports which can be just a little too rough for your dog. For example, when playing cricket with a cricket ball, there is the chance that your dog will try and catch the ball in its mouth, this can easily result in broken teeth. Broken teeth are not easily, nor cheaply, fixed as it may require a specialist canine dentist to make and fit a ‘false’ tooth. There are many good oral friendly toys available on the market, such as Orbee tuff Mutt toys from Planet Dog. They will help to clean gums and teeth whilst proving fun and enjoyment for your dog.Nutrition Although most commercially produced pet foods provide a balanced diet, tinned foods, meat rolls and even raw meats like mince, are very soft and mushy and can’t act as an abrasive to naturally clean teeth.

An excellent addition to the pet food market was the introduction of dry biscuits that are now a very common style of food for most pets. As they are hard and crunchy, they rub against the teeth whilst your dog is chewing. There are even some specific pet food formulas that have been manufactured with this purpose in mind. Although feeding your pet dry biscuits certainly helps, giving your pet bones to chew on regularly is not only another effective solution, but a tasty one for your dog too!Accessories Yes, you can buy a toothbrush for your pet! Most veterinary clinics will stock a toothbrush which has been specially designed to fit over your finger and has a small brush head, perfect for using on your dog or cat. There are also toothpastes available for pets. Human toothpaste cannot be used due to the fact that it's too high in fluoride and our pets can’t spit. However, the hardest part of actually brushing your pet’s teeth is keeping them still! Most people find that unless you start brushing your pet's teeth when they are young, it may be more difficult to get them use to it as they get older.

Age We have all heard the saying ‘getting long in the tooth’ which simply indicates the aging problem. The majority of older pets will have experienced or will be experiencing tooth and gum problems, in fact, the state of advanced plaque on a pet's teeth is often used as a reasonably accurate indicator of a pet's age.Habits The humble tennis ball is a common dog toy. However, vets will agree that they can cause severe wearing down of the teeth when chewed constantly. The fibre on a common tennis ball is very abrasive and over time can wear a dog’s teeth right back to the gums. Another way that this can occur is through excessive self-grooming or when a pet is constantly biting and chewing its own fur due to itchiness caused by skin conditions. Seeking relief for the original skin condition will ensure that this never happens.Hints The most obvious signs of teeth and gum disease are bad breath and dribbling. What you smell is literally rotting tissue. Not only is this very unpleasant for you and your pet, but it can eventually be dangerous to your pet's health as abscesses, blood poisoning and serious illness can result from mouth infections. On The Cusp



Congratulations to all the nsW daa students of 2010!

On Saturday 26th February, seventeen students from the Class of 2010 celebrated

their graduation over an elegant dinner and drinks at the “99 on York Conference Centre”.The Dux Award was donated by the ADA NSW Branch who have generously supported students enrolled in the NSW DAA Certificate III in Dental Assisting for many years.This year, the prize winner was Katie O’Leary who was presented her award from the ADA NSW Branch by Mr Todd Redwood – CEO of the ADA NSW Branch CPD.

CLass oF 2010

Also representing the ADA NSW Branch CPD, we were delighted to welcome Miss Abby Green. Katie was employed by Word of Mouth Dentistry at Kogarah - a previous Dux award employer, but has since relocated to the Central Coast this year. We are sure she will bring a standard of excellence and quality to her profession and wish her every success in her career. After a year of study, assignments, assessments and exams, students joined with employers, staff colleagues, partners, family members and friends to celebrate their achievements and receive their Certificate and NSW DAA Badge.

Congratulations to all our students for some outstanding results and to our tutors for their dedication and commitment to the high quality of training standards.Our thanks also to the ADA NSW Branch for their continued support and encouragement to the students and their donation towards the prestigious Dux Award. On The Cusp

Class of 2010 receiving their certificate from todd redwood, Ceo of the ada nsW Branch

Erika Butler

Amanda CaryAlicia FerryDevon Payne

Emily Buckingham Emily Warburton

Evelyen BeldanJenny Chaisuksant Jenny Haimandos

Jyoti Khanal

Kylie SherrattKatharina O'ReshkinNerissa Ghamwari Katie O'Leary - ADA Dux Prize Winner

Sayreen Nisha


www.nswdaa.asn.au

stem Cell research to regenerate teeth

StemSave, a company that offers inexpensive methods for crypto preservation and noninvasive

recovery, recently announced in a publication appearing in the Journal of Dental Research that they have developed a new technique for tooth regeneration.By using stem cells derived from a patient’s body, it has now become possible to regenerate lost teeth.This pioneering procedure is part of a program implemented by the company involving a variety of dentists working with stems cells harvested from the human body.

This newest technique is the first of its kind to result in tooth regeneration; teeth grow in their natural shape and this can eventually lead to a new method for lost tooth recovery for dental patients in the future.The findings were made by Dr. Jeremy Mao and several of his colleagues through a process identified as cell homing.It is possible that Dr. Mao and his team of researchers have created a method for replacing the latest alternatives used to deal with missing teeth like partials, implants, and dentures.The study illustrates that teeth can be grown naturally outside of the socket or within the tooth socket.The tooth can then naturally integrate with any of the tissues that surround it.

Since the tooth can integrate with the natural tissues of the body, this makes the regenerated tooth more stable than the sturdiest of dental implants today.In the future, patients will not have to deal with the titanium metals offered up in implants, potential infections, and the potential rejection of unnatural, dental implants.The findings illustrate a new path for dental care and what the future holds in the way of new treatment methods, especially in the light of stem cell research and advances in the field of study.Dentistry will soon open its doors to regenerative medicine and it can serve as a more holistic approach to the replacement of lost teeth. On The Cusp

neWs From overseas

also from Las vegas

Research into the collection and use of dental stem cells are in the early phase, but already

some are saying the future is promising.In Las vegas, a couple of dentists will pull children’s teeth to ship them off so the stem cells could be harvested.“It’s a pretty easy process,” dentist Joshua Saxe said. “We just go in and take both of them out at the same time.”Between the ages of 5 and 12, children lose about 20 teeth. Hidden deep in the dental pulp are stem cells.“The benefits are going to be unlimited,” dentist Michael Saxe said. He said the stem cells found in teeth are the same as those found in umbilical blood or in bone marrow.Stem cells are capable of matching themselves to any part of the human body, allowing for the regrowth of damaged tissue and bone.

Las vegas radio disk jockey Craig Williams’ daughter Alyssa is 7 years old, the age when her baby teeth are falling out to make way for adult teeth. He said stem cells from her umbilical cord weren’t collected, so this is another opportunity to save them.“I think a lot of people might not have done it at the time, and this is almost a second chance,” he said.The teeth are shipped off to a lab where the stem cells are collected and evaluated.At Massachusetts-based Store-A-Tooth, CEO Howard Greenman said that storing a tooth’s stem cell is an ultimate investment.“The evidence really is there that once we freeze these dental stem cells, we’ll have them indefinitely,” he said.At the university of Nevada, Las vegas, the research into dental stem cells is in the early stages. Students have extracted more than 50 teeth, harvested and grown in a laboratory.

uNLv dental student Matthew Alleman said when patients learn about the research, they become curious. Alleman and his professor, Karl Kingsley, started the research last March.“Dental pulp stem cells might be a reservoir of cells we could use to help patients who have a variety of different health problems,” Kingsley said.The potential for dental stem cell research hasn’t been proven yet, he said.“This is nascent research, and it’s something that’s really exciting because it’s new,” Kingsley said. “So, we’re waiting to see.”Hear more about this groundbreaking research at the Big Day Out for Dental on Friday 9th September at the Novotel Homebush Bay. On The Cusp



more than 80% of children in Uae suffer from dental decay, says expert

More than 80 per cent of children in the uAE are suffering from dental decay

with a score of up to seven on the Decayed and Missed Filling Teeth (DMFT) Index, in which only 1-2 is considered 'acceptable', according to Dr. Khadija Al Suwaidi, specialist in Pediatric Dentistry at DentCare Center International. Dr. Al Suwaidi’s remarks were part of her presentation at the Pediatric Dental Campaign organized by DentCare Centre International at the Children’s City in Dubai Creek Park. Supported by Dubai Healthcare City, a member of TECOM Investments’ Sciences Cluster, the event aimed to increase awareness levels among children on dental care and the importance of oral hygiene.

Dr. Al Suwaidi said: “Baby teeth help children chew food and speak clearly. But they also hold space so that permanent teeth can grow in an orderly fashion within the space. If good dental habits are ingrained at an early stage, children will find it easier to keep those good habits forever.”If neglected, dental care will remain a challenge that can have a negative impact on the general health of individuals and children equally, according to medical professionals.Dr. Ayesha Abdullah, Managing Director of TECOM Investments’ Sciences Cluster, said: “We are keen to support the Dental Campaign and work in collaboration with Dentcare Center to create awareness around the significance

of oral hygiene and the importance of instilling this habit at an early age among children, in addition to encouraging regular visits to the dentist. Our objective is to support this initiative throughout the year as part of our concern to sustain the well-being of the community.”A multi-speciality dental clinic that caters to all age groups, DentCare Centre International covers all branches of modern dentistry with the most advanced and up-to-date technologies as well as highly experienced dentists. With a Pediatric Dentist along in addition to special arrangements for children, DentCare ensures children gain a pleasant dental treatment experience. On The Cusp

neWs From overseas

vegetables containing vitamin B can slash risk of mouth cancer dentistryiQ - november 16, 2010

Women who consume high volumes of folic acid found in vitamin B from vegetables

and some fruits are less likely to suffer from mouth cancer.87,000 nurses were followed for 30 years from 1976 by researchers from the Columbia university Medical Centre and Harvard School of Public Health. Women who drank a high volume of alcohol and had low folic acid intake were three times more likely to develop mouth cancer than those who drank high volumes of alcohol but had high volumes of folic acid in their diet.Alcohol is one of the major risk factors for mouth cancer and those who drink to excess are four times more likely to be diagnosed. This is the first time that folic acid intake has been shown to affect the risk of the disease. Alcohol leads to a reduction in folic acid metabolism by creating acetaldehyde which leads to a reduction of folic acid in the body.Chief Executive of the British Dental Health Foundation, Dr Nigel Carter, said:

“Rates of mouth cancer in women have been increasing for many years as a result of changed social habits with more women smoking and drinking. This new research could offer a method to reduce this by looking at the folic acid intake and increasing fruit and vegetables containing folic acid in the diet. “In the past studies have tended to focus on males, as they are twice as likely to suffer from the disease. Whilst this study focuses on women, we know that men also benefit from the protective value of increased fruit and vegetables.”Folic acid or vitamin B9 is essential to an individual's health by helping to make and maintain new cells. Pregnant women are advised to supplement their intake of folic acid, to ensure a healthy development of the baby.Folic acid is found in vegetables such as spinach, asparagus, beans, peas, and lentils and is added to bread. Fruit juices, broccoli, and brussels sprouts contain smaller amounts.

An unhealthy diet has been linked with around a third of mouth cancer cases. Recent research has also shown that an increase in food such as eggs and fish that contain Omega 3, and nuts, seeds, and brown rice, which are high in fiber, can help decrease the risks.Mouth cancer survival is poor with only around half of cases surviving for five years and this is due to late presentation. The Mouth Cancer Action Month Campaign run by the Foundation aims to increase awareness and reverse this trend with the theme “If in doubt, get checked out.”Early warning signs to look out for include a mouth ulcer that has not healed within three weeks, red or white patches in the mouth, and any unusual swelling or lumps in the mouth. These are all signs that you should get your dentist or doctor to check you out as soon as possible.Zavras et al. Alcohol-folate Interactions in the risk of oral cancer in women: a prospective cohort study. Published in the October issue of Cancer Epidemiology Biomarkers and Prevention. On The Cusp




www.nswdaa.asn.au

Fortis Global Healthcare takeover of australia’s dental Corporation

In its third attempt to complete the acquisition in last five months, Fortis Global Healthcare Holdings

offered to raise its stake in Australia’s Dental Corporation Holdings to a maximum of 58.6%. Fortis already holds 33% in Dental Corporation Holdings. Fortis Global has agreed to make an offer to each Dental Corporation Holdings shareholder to acquire up to 30 per cent of their existing shareholding at a price of $2.54 per share and separate offers to acquire 30 per cent of the employee options held by Dental Corp Holdings option holders.This development comes soon after Fortis announced it’s second international acquisition in Singapore, where it took over an almost completed cancer specialty hospital in December.

How much extra the unlisted firm has to cough up for the controlling power would depend on how much more stake they manage to buy. The offer values Dental Corp at approximately $400m and represents an 18% premium over the price which Fortis invested in Dental Corp in December 2010. Malvinder Singh, chairman of Fortis Global said, “Fortis looks forward to continuing to support the Dental Corp management team to deliver the company’s growth forecasts in Australia and New Zealand and potentially into new geographies in Asia. This investment is the next step in the development of the relationship between Dental Corp and Fortis Global”.

The Dental Corp directors unanimously supported the offer and have urged the shareholders to accept this offer in the absence of a superior proposal materialising.Dental Corporation Holdings Limited represents FGH’s third investment in five months and marks an important step in achieving the Singh family’s vision of creating a premier integrated healthcare delivery system in Asia and Australia region. In November 2010, FGH completed the acquisition of Quality Healthcare Ltd, the largest Primary Healthcare Network in Hong Kong and later In January 2011, FGH acquired its initial significant stake in Dental Corporation Holdings Limited. On The Cusp

and at Home…

DENTAL…MENTAL THERAPY...

“People know you for what you’ve done, not for what you plan to do.~Author Unknown

The Family Tree by ilsa evans

Kate is a wife, mother, freelance author and aspiring writer. But being all of these things makes finding time and inspiration to write near impossible. When Kate’s cousin Angie announces she has a room to let, Kate makes a spur of the moment decision and puts herself first and decides she will temporarily move out of home to complete her novel leaving her husband and adult children to fend for themselves.The novel was so true to home for me at many times. The struggle we mothers have as we carry the load of ‘mother guilt’ around when we meet our own needs. The author manages to draw you into this family and its characters, at times feeling compassion for her family struggling to run the household and at other times a great sense of admiration for Kate who is finally fulfilling her dream.A story well worth a read, particularly to those of us who are trying to do it all!. On The Cusp

Book reviewby your editor

EDITOR NEEDED FOR ‘ON THE CUSP’

Do you have a creative flair and a genuine interest in Dental Assisting?Our association requires an editor for our quarterly newsletter.Please contact our office on 02 9569 3220 for further information.



mAkE 2011 – yOuR yEARWith all the change happening around us it is more important than ever to stay up to date with your dental knowledge and skills. At NSW DAA we understand that in a busy practice it can be difficult to take time out to attend a course. Our professional development courses for 2011 are held on Saturdays and our Certificate III course is flexible – you select your delivery mode*. We are able to offer you a course designed to suit your needs – you can attend lectures one afternoon/evening per week or study at your own home in your own time, or mix the two options and attend the lectures you choose. We also have some webconferencing sessions where you can login and attend class online, interacting with other participants (limited sessions).

Don’t be left behind in your career. Discerning employers are now looking for qualified staff as this becomes part of their high practice standards. Your Certificate III will show you have the knowledge, skills and qualification for your industry.

Thought of upgrading your old Proficiency Certificate? Talk to us about our special evening sessions or flexible learning to upskill. Government Funding opportunities are also available to eligible students.

Traineeships – a great way to gain your qualification!Government funding is available to new employees who are eligible under the Australian Apprenticeship program*. This funding will pay for your training fees and your employer will gain up to $4000 when you successfully complete your course. Students enrolling under the traineeship program receive exactly the same course and attend the same classes as full fee paying students – there is no difference in training and assessments.

Why choose the NSWDAA for your training?We have excellent tutors with a collective span of over 90 years experience – all qualified trainers and assessors. Our training record is of the highest standard and our students are well recognised – many going on to a career in hygiene or dentistry. Having provided training courses to dental assistants for over 40 years, we know the value of quality in training and experienced trainers.

• Our classes are limited to smaller numbers – you won’t get lost in a large group.

• Individual attention is given to learners with difficulties and tutors are allocated to these students

• Materials and equipment are all provided – no additional fees• Students receive discounts on all NSWDAA courses and annual conference • We provide you with all the leaning materials you need including the text for

your course.

We make learning easy for your busy lifestyle.

The subjects covered are:• Radiography • Infection Control• Medical Emergencies• Legal and Ethical issues• Assisting with dental procedures• Equipment and products• Office administration

*some conditions may apply to new entrants.Stay ahead of the rest - call us on 02 9569 3220.




www.nswdaa.asn.au

Dear Beverley-Ann,

Thank you for hosting a Girls Night In for The Cancer Council NSW. We hope you and your guests enjoyed your event while raising $200.00 to help us in the fight against women's cancers.

It is wonderful you are part of our community because TOGETHER we can make a difference.

Your contribution will enable us to continue funding vital research into the causes of cancer in women and into new and improved treatments. Over the past six years money raised from Girls Night In events has been allocated to projects looking specifically at women's cancers.

The Cancer Council NSW is a national non-government cancer charity working to defeat all cancers. We provide essential support services such as The Cancer Council Helpline (13 11 20) and education programs on prevention and detection in an effort to lessen the impact of cancer on NSW communities.

If you would like to find out more about our work, or how you can get involved in any of our other fundraising events and activities, please visit our website at www.cancercouncil.com.au or call our events hotline on 1300 65 65 85.

Thank you once again for your generous support and we hope you will join us again next year in what we promise to be an even bigger and better Girls Night In.

With kind regards

Melanie Zammit National Event Manager Girls Night In

tHanK-yoU Letter From meLanie zammit - nationaL event manaGer, GirLs niGHt in

http://www.cancercouncil.com.au



EmPLOymENT OPPORTuNITIESdid you know that we also provide a job placement service for dental assistants?

Many exciting opportunities exist for Dental Assistants, both experienced and those just starting out.

We have a list of prospective employers just waiting to hear from you with practices in suburbs including Artarmon, Kingsford, Redfern, Baulkham Hills, St Leonards, Neutral Bay, Richmond and Waverton.

Why not let us know a bit about yourself and we can help to find the right job for you.

Call the office Monday to Wednesday, 10.00am to 4.00pm and Linda will be happy to take your details.

Phone: 02 9569 3220email: [email protected]

NOTE: A fee may apply to dental practices where a successful candidate is placed. Free service to Dental Assistants who are members to NSWDAA (Professional) Association.

UPdatinG yoUr PersonaL detaiLsChange of address/Personal details

To assist us in keeping the database up-to-date, please email [email protected] with any change of address, telephone numbers, etc

We are conscious of our environmental responsibility and would like your help to reduce our carbon footprint.

if you would like to receive your newsletter by email, it’s as easy as sending us an email with

”<your name> and newsletter by email” in the subject.

send to [email protected] or call us at the office on 02 9569 3220

and we will do the rest.

Have you attended any of our exciting social events? As well as being lots of fun, these outings are a great way to meet your colleagues and network with other Dental Assistants. You never know when contacts in the industry could be useful. We have a number of outings each year, usually every 2 months or so, with events including harbour cruises, beach days, Christmas in July, shopping trips and much more...upcoming events are outlined in each edition of “On the Cusp”. Our next event is on Friday, 10 June at Baulkham Hills, followed by Christmas in July on Saturday, 30 July. Why not get a group together, come alone or bring a partner or a couple of friends? Just come and enjoy!We are always open to suggestions, please let us know if you have any ideas for a memorable outing. Remember this is your social club, let us know how we can make it better for you!Phone: 02 9569 3220email: [email protected]




www.nswdaa.asn.au

LET’S MEET ELISE JOnES

name: Elise Jones

area you live in: Kellyville

Place of work: Rouse Hill FamilyDental Clinic

main job function: Dental Assistant

da Certificate: Currently studying Certificate III at Stanmore

main area of dentistry that you enjoy: Paediatrics & Oral Hygiene

any funny stories to share from your training so far: No stories, butthere have been a lot of laughs with my workmates

What have you learnt about dentistry that you have found most interesting?: The connection between human anatomy and head and neck anatomy

Where do you see yourself in 5 years time?: On my way to becoming a Dental Hygienist

What would you choose as a venue/outing for the social club?: The Ivy Bar

What would you be doing if you weren’t working in dentistry: Travelling

What are your hobbies: Spending time with my sisters, taking care of my rabbits, baking and shopping

What is your favourite colour, food and footy team: Pink, vanilla cupcakes and I can’t understand footy

if you could be anyone else for 24 hours who would it be and why? Anyone of the cast members on the Tv show “Glee”

Thanks Elise. Elise will receive a gift pack courtesy of the NSW DAA, so if you would also like to be involved and win a pack please contact [email protected]

Meet our membersa great way to get to know who is in our association, there is a gift pack for the member featured here each newsletter. if you would like to be featured in this section, email [email protected]

funny moments in the dental surgery

Laughs and…


daa newsletter_prof may 2011_web

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