Leading Maxillofacial Surgeon and Implant Specialist talks to Wright Society Young Medics

The Wright Society helps aspiring Medics, Dentists and Vets from both Caterham and our partner State Maintained Schools achieve their dreams of securing places to study at leading medical and veterinary medicine schools in the UK and abroad.

On Remembrance Day this week, The Wright Society hosted a captivating talk from Dr Simon Nocton. Dr Nocton began the talk by describing his career as a dental implant specialist and as an oral and maxillofacial surgeon.

He then talked about implants and their vital role in replacing missing teeth. He highlighted the fact that implants are made of titanium or zirconia as this allows them to bond and integrate well with the surrounding bone tissue. This would make them the perfect material to replicate the missing tooth.

Dr Nocton then talked about patient communication. He described the use of pictures and 3D x-rays not only in diagnosing treatment, but to show patients to help them to understand their treatment better. He also discussed the new digital impressions which are going to replace the older and more traditional Alginate impressions. These 3D images would also make it easier for patients to see their treatment plan and to understand the dentist’s intentions.

After this, Dr Nocton described the fascinating uses of Leukocyte-platelet Rich Fibrin (L-PRF) in bone healing and tissue regeneration. It is used to aid bone grafts and help the stability of the implant.

Personally, as a student wanting to pursue dentistry, Dr Nocton’s talk was invaluable to me and really sparked my passion to learn more about implants and to pursue a career in dentistry.

Rajan P (Lower Sixth)