U.K. dental patients can now identify where their oral appliances were made, thanks to the new "British Bite Mark" campaign by the Dental Laboratories Association (DLA).
U.K. dental labs must comply with regulations disclosing the materials used and also are required to hire registered dental technicians. The regulations are designed to protect patients; however, imported appliances are not made by registered personnel or in inspected labs, the DLA noted in a press release.
"In these turbulent economic times it is understandable that dental practices are looking to cut costs; however, by sourcing crowns, bridges, denture,s and veneers from dental laboratories in the Far East just to save money isn't acceptable without making the patient aware," said Richard Daniels, chief executive of the DLA, in the release. "By introducing the British Bite Mark, we are helping patients instantly recognize where their appliance has been manufactured and that it complies with U.K. regulations."
Over the coming months, the British Bite Mark will be featured in local and national media, as well as on all the major social networking sites. The DLA will also be issuing information to health centers, libraries, and dental practices to help educate patients about the difference between appliances manufactured in the U.K. and overseas.
