The British Endodontic Society (BES) is urging researchers to get involved in a project that looks into the effects of AGPs in dentistry.
The organisation will offer UK-based applicants a grant of up to £40,000 for undertaking research that mitigates the impact of AGPs during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Applicants do not need to be members of the BES.
Complex situation
‘The impact of COVID-19 on dentistry has been significant,’ said Dr Sanjeev Bhanderi, president of the BES. ‘As we begin to return to the “new normal”, we face a complex and evolving situation.
‘There is an abundance of guidance available. But a common theme is the lack of robust evidence to guide the adoption of behaviours in practice.
‘Many questions surround AGPs in dental practice and the interaction of those with COVID-19. As a result, the BES is investing in research that will lead to a better understanding.’
The closing date for submissions is Wednesday 15 July 2020.
Good evidence necessary
Alyn Morgan is a senior clinical teaching fellow in restorative dentistry. He believes that increased concern over AGPs – alongside the required fallow time – also contributes to the ‘threat to the ongoing survival’ of many dental settings.
‘Given the need to act and provide guidance in the presence of a weak evidence base, it was inevitable that the recommendations from those who regulate dentistry would be highly conservative, correctly placing a premium on patient safety,’ he said.
‘However, if dental practices are unable to operate viably then the nation’s dental health will suffer and patients will not be able to access the care they need.
‘It is clear that we need to operate both safely and effectively; to do so we need access to good evidence that backs up our practice.’
Click here to apply or for more information.
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