Stuart has represented the BDA at the Council of European Dentists as chair of the Working Group on Tooth Whitening, and was elected chair of the Dental Practice Committee for the FDI World Dental Federation. He has also led the World Dental Federation Dental Amalgam Task Team at the United Nations Environment Program mercury treaty negotiations.
He has previously served as chair of the BDA’s representative body and on its Principal Executive Committee. His work has been recognised with an honorary fellowship of the University of Wales School of Medicine. In his inauguration address the new president highlighted the challenge of stress and low morale across the profession.
Commenting on his inauguration, Stuart Johnston said:
“When I qualified I took the decision to get involved in dental politics. It gave me the chance to see the latest developments facing this profession and to influence them before they became a reality. I have taken huge personal satisfaction from contributing to the well being of my chosen profession, and it’s my honour to continue in that role as president.
“Stress in dental surgeries is at record levels. For all those working under the cosh of the UDA, or at the mercy of overweening regulators, that pressure is not letting up. Others see the rise of litigation forcing them to be ever more defensive at the chairside.
“These problems won’t be solved by the armchair generals or the shoulder shruggers. BDA members will be at the forefront of needed change and I am determined to be their best possible advocate, and for every dentist across the UK.”