Sir, I read with interest the letter from L McArdle (BDJ 2004, 197: 114). However, the explanation of the reasons for the establishment of the British Association of Surgical Dentists, which has recently changed its name to the British Association of Oral Surgeons (BAOS), is misleading.

Since its foundation in 1962 the (original) BAOS, which changed its name to BAOMS in 1982 to reflect the widening scope and development of the specialty, has maintained an inclusive policy for all those providing clinical services and providing the academic base within the maxillofacial region.

This is reflected by the first Object of the Association to promote the advancement of education, research and the development of oral and maxillofacial surgery, oral surgery and surgical dentistry in the British Isles. In addition to specialists, membership has always been open to registered medical or dental practitioners in the British Isles or from overseas who are interested in these specialty areas.

This approach puts BAOMS in a unique position to provide leadership and co-ordinated advice across the whole specialty area for the benefit of our patients and all those involved in providing clinical care.

L McArdle refers to the recent views of the SDAC and the GDC. BAOMS supports the recommendation in the SDAC Report that the GDC should be invited to consider reconfiguration of the current arrangements for oral surgery (including academic oral surgery) and surgical dentistry. However, it seems premature to refer to the views of the GDC when the work of the (GDC) Specialist Lists Review Group is still at an early stage with a preliminary report only expected later this year. BAOMS welcomes any development which promotes high standards of practice within the maxillofacial region in its widest sense and is therefore reassured that the new BAOS will promote the highest ideals and standards for oral surgery and will maintain close links with other professional bodies.

BAOMS has already expressed the wish to work closely with the new association. Open co-operation fits well with the principle of the multidisciplinary team including oral and maxillofacial surgery, oral surgery and other dental and medical specialties integrated with primary care services. This is a concept strongly supported by BAOMS.

Further information about BAOMS can be obtained through the website: www.baoms.org.uk or through the BAOMS office e mail: office@baoms.org.uk.