Moving with the times – digital scanners in dentistry

Specialist orthodontist Maria Mcnally talks about her role in a large interdisciplinary clinic in Rochdale, Greater Manchester. She discusses how digital dentistry, digital scanners in particular and patient expectations have changed the way she works.

Can you tell us a bit about your background?

I qualified in dentistry in 1995 from the University of London. I did various restorative and maxillofacial house jobs and vocational training before starting my orthodontic training in 2000 in Birmingham. In Birmingham I trained to consultant level and then moved to Manchester to follow my husband’s job where I was a hospital consultant for 10 years. Currently I am a partner in a multidisciplinary practice in Rochdale and I also work for a corporate one day a week.

What made you choose a career in orthodontics?

At 12 years of age, I attended the Eastman Dental Hospital for my own orthodontic treatment. I quickly decided that was the job for me. Fortunately, I enjoyed the science subjects at school and so I was able to pursue my ambition.

Tell us about your practice and how it is structured.

I am incredibly fortunate and privileged to work in a purpose-built state-of-the-art interdisciplinary clinic. We have the whole plethora of experts including an endodontist and specialists in orthodontics, oral surgery and restorative. So, there is always someone available to ask for a second opinion.

The practice started in 1984 and relocated a few years later to the current site. It expanded to 10 surgeries. (The last extension being completed just two years ago to allow incorporation of the latest equipment and technology).

Bamford dental practice

We have an orthodontic and general NHS contract but…