Gloucestershire’s Prima Dental Group has received an award from Innovate UK, the UK’s innovation agency, to fund a radical project worth £472,000 which is set to improve the safety of dentists and patients across the world.
The Quedgeley based manufacturer will use the grant to fund the development of game changing technology which will help reduce the risk of virus transmission.
This issue has been especially highlighted as a result of Covid-19 where the danger of virus transmission during routine dental procedures such as fillings, has had an enormous impact on the provision of dental care. According to the British Dental Association (BDA), there were 19 million fewer dental appointments in 2020 leading to a dramatic impact on the nation’s oral health and the economic viability of the sector.
Prima Dental Group will be partnering with King’s College London, internationally renowned for its dentistry education, for the 14-month project to develop the innovative technology.
“This is both a very exciting time for us as a business, but also a pivotal prospect for the dental industry,” comments Richard Muller, Executive Chairman, Prima Dental Group.
“Despite improved access to care, the impact of Coronavirus is still being felt across dental practices as many of the safety precautions prevent a return to pre-pandemic operating efficiencies. This impacts both on the scope of care that can be offered, plus of course the cost involved in running what is a vital health care service. The issues experienced in the UK are mirrored worldwide, making this is an international issue of huge proportions.
“Therefore, to have the opportunity to work with King’s College London on this radical project is especially important as we anticipate it will revolutionise the dental industry – and most importantly help protect dentists, staff and patients worldwide.”
Dr Marilyn Goh, Head of Research & Innovations, Prima Dental Group, who will be leading on the project, adds; “Our innovative project aims to cause a paradigm shift in the environmental safety of dental surgeries. Success will lead to a new low-cost product that can be rapidly manufactured and deployed worldwide, increasing patient and staff safety and helping to improve public oral health provision and patient’s confidence in the dental sector.”
