The British Society of Prosthodontics (BSSPD) is one of the oldest of the specialist dental societies in the UK and was founded in 1953. The society is established to promote and advance, for the benefit of the public, education in the science and practice of prosthodontics (including fixed, removable, implant and maxillofacial prosthodontics) by supporting and promoting:
High quality of prosthodontic care
Prosthodontic research, surveys and investigations
Undergraduate and postgraduate education in prosthodontics
The maintenance and improvement of standards in patient care and the facilitation of lifelong education in prosthodontics.
The worldwide membership is around 600, and the society is always actively pursuing new members who have an interest in fixed, removable, implant or maxillofacial prosthodontics. Membership is open to dentists, doctors, scientists and dental care professionals who profess an interest in prosthodontics. The large number of members in practice has ensured that the society has remained in touch with general practice as well as academic dentistry. Honorary membership is offered to distinguished individuals by unanimous election of the society.
To join the society simply visit the website (www.bsspd.org) and click on the membership tab. The membership benefits include reduced rates for conference attendance, free access to both live and on-demand webinars, free subscription to the European Journal of Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry and opportunities to present and apply for numerous research prizes and bursaries that this friendly society supports.
The Gold medal is the highest accolade which the BSSPD awards. It is presented every three years to an individual who has made 'exceptional contributions to the furtherance/development of prosthodontics' in the following domains: clinical, research, and education. In 2020, the recipient of this award was Mr Richard Welfare for his outstanding contribution to prosthodontics. Richard joined the society in 1973 and was BSSPD President in 2007-8.
Although COVID-19 has had a significant impact on the business of the society this year, the BSSPD hopes to hold a joint online conference with a number of other national societies next year and will be looking to build on its successful webinar series.