The Cork University Dental School and Hospital, University College Cork, hosted a highly engaging and well received Continuing Education Seminar for Dental Nurses, Dental Hygienists, and all members of the Dental Team on February 21st.

21 Feb 2026

From registration through to the final session, the seminar maintained strong attendance and enthusiastic participation, reflecting the appetite for continued learning and clinical excellence within all members of the dental team.

The day commenced with a welcome address from Professor Paul Brady (Dean) who highlighted the importance of ongoing education in strengthening clinical practice and patient safety. He also stressed the importance of a team approach to dentistry and welcomed the opening of a new simulation surgery for dental nursing education within the dental school.

The first speaker was Professor Finbarr Allen who delivered an insightful presentation exploring the expanding role of implants in modern oral rehabilitation. His discussion covered clinical indications, patient selection, and long-term outcomes and gave a comprehensive overview of the implant related care pathways.

The next speaker, Dr. Laura O’Sullivan, continued the momentum with a very witty and highly engaging presentation on future trends in dentistry. “In the Hands of Gen Z,” explored how the newest generation entering the dental workforce and how patients changing expectations are reshaping the way dental practices communicate, educate, and deliver care.  This presentation was enjoyed by all.

The next session comprised of three speakers; Ms. Kathleen Marshell, Ms. Jennifer Newman and Ms. Katherine Morrissey Moran who delivered practical and research-based information on very important topics focusing on aerosol generating procedures (AGP’s), decontamination practices, and infection prevention‑ and control (IPC) protocols.  The speakers addressed ongoing challenges in ensuring safety within the dental setting.  Feedback highlighted how valuable and directly applicable this content was to everyday clinical practice.

The early afternoon session featured Professor Martina Hayes who explored the rapidly evolving role of digital technology in general dental practice, addressing both its significant benefits and the challenges it presents. This was a very well balanced and relevant topic, and participants were both engaged and challenged in their thinking regarding future trends in dentistry.

The final session of the day was delivered by Ms. Tina Gorman. Her detailed exploration of clinical governance underscored the crucial role of structured quality improvement frameworks in dental practice. Attendees found the content thought provoking, especially regarding how governance principles support safer, more consistent patient care.

Many attendees expressed appreciation for the relevance and depth of the presentations, the variety of clinical and professional topics and the expertise and clarity of the speakers. The Cork University Dental School and Hospital would like to express their thanks and appreciation to all speakers, attendees and contributors whose involvement ensured the success of this continuing professional development educational event. IT played a very important role in the organisation of this seminar and a special thanks is extended to all IT personal in the dental school.

The organisation of this seminar highlights The Cork University Dental Schools and Hospitals ongoing commitment to supporting dental professionals through meaningful and high-quality continuing education. By providing accessible opportunities for current learning and development, we continue to strengthen the skills, confidence, and collaborative spirit for all members of the dental team.