The British Dental Journal (BDJ) is an international, peer reviewed journal for the dental community, published by Springer Nature on behalf of the British Dental Association. We aim to inform our readers of ideas, opinions, developments and key issues in dentistry - clinical, practical and scientific - to spark interest, debate and discussion amongst dentists of all disciplines. To those based in the UK the BDJ is only available through BDA membership or via institutional subscriptions. For BDA membership enquiries call 020 7563 4550 or visit https://www.bda.org/join. .