Spotlight on DTS Speakers: Insight, Innovation and the Future of Dental Technology

As excitement builds for this year's Dental Technology Showcase (DTS), we're pleased to highlight just some of the outstanding speakers who will be taking to the stage, sharing real-world experience, regulatory insight and cutting-edge digital innovation.

Once again, DTS promises a packed programme of expert-led sessions designed to support technicians at every stage of their careers. From complex prosthetic casework and evolving legislation to artificial intelligence in CAD design, these talks underline why DTS remains an unmissable date in the profession's calendar.

Exploring Career Pathways in Dental Technology

Dental Technician Career Pathways: Progression, Technology and Future Challenges

Dr. Raya Karaganeva BSc (Hons) PhD FHEA DCP, Senior Lecturer in Dental Technology, University of Greater Manchester

Dr. Nikolas Poulis, Head of Centre, University of Greater Manchester

DTA Council Member Dr. Raya Karaganeva and Dr. Nikolas Poulis will deliver a joint presentation exploring the evolving career pathways available to dental technicians. Their session will cover professional progression, the latest technological innovations in dental technology, and the future challenges that technicians may face in an ever-changing clinical and digital landscape.

Delegates can expect insights from both an academic and practical perspective, making this talk essential for students, early-career technicians, and laboratory managers who want to understand how to navigate their professional development while keeping pace with technological advancement.

Developing Skills Through Real-World Prosthetics

Training into practice: early career learning through complex prosthetic case studies

Ella Cook, Prosthetic Dental Technician, University Hospitals Bristol & Weston NHS Foundation Trust

DTA Member Ella Cook will explore the vital transition from training into real-world clinical practice. Drawing on complex prosthetic case studies from within an NHS setting, Ella's session will provide valuable insight into the challenges faced by early-career technicians — and the learning opportunities that arise when theory meets reality.

This talk will be particularly relevant for students, newly qualified technicians and laboratory managers involved in mentoring and workforce development, offering practical takeaways on building confidence, competence and clinical judgement.

Navigating Regulation in a Changing Landscape

Custom-made medical device legislation: where are we following Brexit and COVID-19?

 James Green, Maxillofacial and Dental Laboratory Manager, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust

Regulation continues to be one of the most pressing topics facing dental laboratories. In this essential session, DTA Council Member James Green will examine the current position of custom-made medical device legislation in the wake of Brexit and the COVID-19 pandemic.

With his extensive experience managing specialist services at Great Ormond Street Hospital, James will provide clarity on regulatory expectations, practical compliance considerations and what laboratories should be preparing for next — making this a must-attend for owners, managers and senior technical staff.

Exploring AI and Digital Dentistry

From pixels to patients: how AI is transforming CAD design and real-world cases

Kristina Vaitelyte, CAD/CAM Dental Technician, Avant Garde Dental Laboratory

Caroline Kirkpatrick, Clinical Dental Technician, OTS Dental Laboratory

DTA Member Kristina Vaitelyte and Caroline Kirkpatrick will take delegates on a journey from virtual design to clinical application, sharing real-world case examples that demonstrate how AI-driven CAD solutions are improving efficiency, accuracy and patient outcomes.

For technicians keen to understand how emerging technologies can be integrated into their own laboratories, this talk promises both inspiration and practical insight.

Plan Your Visit to DTS

These sessions represent just a snapshot of the rich educational programme awaiting visitors at DTS this year. With dozens of speakers, free CPD opportunities and access to the latest innovations from across the sector, the event offers unparalleled value for the entire dental technology community.

We encourage everyone to plan ahead, register early and join us at DTS, to learn, connect with peers and help shape the future of the profession. 

We look forward to seeing you there.

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