Meet Dr Louise O’Dowd: Specialist in Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry at Vermilion
Vermilion – The Smile Experts was founded in 2011 by Dr David Offord. The name “Vermilion” refers to the red line where the lips meet, symbolising our commitment to creating confident, healthy smiles.
We began as a private dental clinic in Edinburgh, welcoming patients referred by their general dentists for complex dental treatment. Located at 24 St John’s Road in Corstorphine, our Edinburgh clinic grew rapidly, and in 2023 we expanded from five to ten state-of-the-art surgeries to meet increasing demand. Today, our Edinburgh practice offers advanced dental technology, an in-house laboratory, a comfortable and modern patient lounge, a dedicated recovery room for those undergoing sedation, complimentary refreshments and free on-site parking.
We offer a full range of specialist-led services, including dental implants, periodontics (gum treatment), oral surgery, endodontics (root canal treatment), orthodontics, complex restorative dentistry, dental hygiene and conscious sedation. All care is delivered in close collaboration with referring dentists to ensure the best possible outcomes for every patient. Once patients finish their treatment with us, they return to their own dentist for ongoing dental care.
In 2018, we opened our second location in Kelso – a modern private dental clinic serving the Scottish Borders. Designed with comfort and convenience in mind, the clinic features three fully equipped surgeries, an in-house laboratory, and calming views over the surrounding countryside. Patients and visitors benefit from ample free on-site parking and complimentary refreshments.
As a leading provider of complex dental care in Edinburgh and the Borders, Vermilion has proudly held BDA Good Practice accreditation since 2016. Our commitment to clinical excellence and patient-centred care has been recognised at the Private Dentistry Awards, where we have been awarded:
Whether you are a referring dentist or a patient in need of expert treatment, Vermilion offers a trusted, specialist-led service tailored to individual needs. We are proud to be one of the most respected private dental clinics in Edinburgh and the Borders.
At Vermilion, we consider transparency fundamental in our patient relationships and adhere to the Duty of Candour.
Dr David Offord is a highly respected Specialist Oral Surgeon with 30 years of experience. He founded Vermilion, driven by a commitment to delivering high-quality, specialist-led dental care in a collaborative, patient-focused setting.
Before Vermilion, Dr Offord gained international experience working in Scotland, Singapore, and Australia. Together with the Vermilion team, Dr Offord is actively involved in the wider dental profession. He regularly hosts clinical case study evenings and CPD events for referring dentists, fostering shared learning and best practice across disciplines. He is also a strong advocate for collaboration and continuous improvement in dentistry, working alongside colleagues to raise standards and drive positive change in specialist dental care across Scotland.
Today, he continues to combine expert surgical treatment with leadership at Vermilion, ensuring the practice maintains its reputation for clinical excellence, innovation, and trusted patient care.
At Vermilion, we combine advanced technology with a patient-focused approach to deliver clinical excellence and personalised care tailored to your needs.
Our expert multi-lingual team delivers care in a relaxed environment, working closely with referring dentists across Scotland. After specialist treatment, patients return to their general dentists for on-going dental care, ensuring continuity and trust.
Our values are built around empathy, consistency, integrity and collaboration. From first referral to final review, we strive to make the process seamless for both patients and dental practitioners, always with the aim of achieving the most effective outcome.
Each year, our team comes together to support a range of charitable causes including Red Nose Day, Save The Children, MacMillan Cancer Support, CHAS and Fresh Start, through fundraising, volunteering and community events. From sponsored challenges to hands-on support, these activities allow us to contribute in meaningful ways while strengthening our team spirit.
Since 2018 we have raised over £19,000 for Fresh Start alone.
While we know we can’t change the world overnight, we believe that small actions can make a real difference, and sometimes, they can change someone’s day.
Since 2024, we have been proud sponsors of The Edinburgh Singers, one of Scotland’s leading non-professional mixed-voice choirs, renowned for their diverse repertoire and strong community involvement.
Founded in 1952, The Edinburgh Singers have been a valued part of Edinburgh’s musical landscape for over 70 years. They are recognised for their commitment to high-quality performances and their ability to engage audiences through a wide range of musical styles, from Renaissance and medieval works to contemporary compositions.
Witnessing the choir’s extraordinary talent is truly inspiring, and it is a privilege to support such a vibrant and creative part of Edinburgh’s cultural life.
