DTA Represents Dental Technologists at Successful DTS 2026

The Dental Technologists Association (DTA) was proud to once again represent the profession at the Dental Technology Showcase (DTS) 2026, held at the NEC Birmingham on 15-16 May.

The organiser announced, As the UK's only event dedicated exclusively to dental laboratories and dental technology professionals, DTS brought together more than 1,400 delegates, over 60 exhibitors and an extensive educational programme designed specifically for dental technicians, laboratory owners, clinical dental technicians and the wider laboratory team.

Throughout the two-day event, the DTA welcomed members, prospective members, students, educators and industry stakeholders to the Association's stand. The event provided an excellent opportunity to engage directly with members, answer questions, showcase DTA benefits and hear first-hand about the opportunities and challenges facing the profession.

With more than 1,500 members across the UK, representing Dental Technologists remains at the heart of the DTA's mission. DTS provided a valuable opportunity to meet members face-to-face, strengthen existing relationships and connect with many individuals who support and contribute to the profession.

Visitors to the stand were particularly interested in the DTA's extensive online CPD resources, with many commenting positively on the flexibility of being able to access learning at a time and place convenient to them. There was also strong interest in DTA Rewards, professional indemnity insurance, free student membership, wellbeing support services and the Association's recently launched Fellowship initiative.

The DTA was also pleased to support the 50th anniversary of National Smile Month, helping to raise awareness of the importance of good oral health and reinforcing the vital contribution dental technicians make to improving patients' lives through the provision of safe, effective and high-quality dental appliances.

A highlight of the event was the DTA's educational session, Dental Technician Career Pathways: Progression, Technology and Future Challenges, presented by DTA Council Member Dr Raya Karaganeva and Dr Nikolas Poulis from the University of Greater Manchester. The presentation explored career development opportunities, technological innovation and the future direction of the profession, generating positive discussion amongst attendees.

In addition to meeting members, the DTA engaged with a range of key stakeholders including representatives from the General Dental Council (GDC), the British Dental Industry Association (BDIA), educators, training providers, manufacturers and suppliers. These conversations continue to play an important role in ensuring the Association remains actively involved in discussions that affect Dental Technologists and the wider dental technology sector.

The exhibition also provided valuable networking opportunities, with DTA representatives attending industry events and meeting colleagues from across dentistry, education and regulation. Derek Pearson, Editor of The Technologist, spent time meeting speakers and exhibitors, establishing new contacts and identifying potential contributors for future DTA publications. If you yourself are interested in contributing, please contact info@dta-uk.org.

Reflecting on the event, DTA President Joanne Stevenson said:

"DTS continues to be an important event for the profession and a valuable opportunity for the DTA to engage directly with members and the wider dental technology community. It was particularly encouraging to see so much enthusiasm for professional development, innovation and career progression. We would like to thank everyone who visited the stand, attended our presentation and took the time to speak with the team over the two days."

The DTA would also like to thank the volunteers, Council members and staff who supported the Association throughout the event and helped ensure a successful and professional presence at DTS 2026.

We look forward to continuing these conversations throughout the year and returning to DTS in 2027.