How does menopause, stress and overall wellbeing influence periodontal health?
These were just some of the questions we explored when we welcomed dental professionals to the Mansion House at Edinburgh Zoo on Friday 2 October for Periodontal Health: Looking Beyond the Smile.
The aim of the day was to look beyond the mouth and explore the wider factors that can influence periodontal health, bringing together evidence-based learning, clinical insights and plenty of opportunities to share experiences with colleagues.
Connecting oral health with overall wellbeing
Our very own Vermilion clinicians, Dr Louise O’Dowd and Dr Jackie Davidson, were joined by Dr Julia Hanlon of The Edinburgh Practice and Dr Sigi Joseph of The Doctor Explains for a varied programme of expert-led sessions.
From the links between oral health and systemic disease to the impact of menopause and stress on periodontal tissues, the presentations explored just how interconnected our health really is and why taking a holistic approach to dentistry matters.
The feedback from delegates highlighted just how relevant these topics are to everyday clinical practice, as well as how much there is still to learn about the relationship between oral health and overall wellbeing.
One attendee reflected on how their understanding had developed since studying, commenting:
“The impact of oral health on the rest of the body wasn’t known when I studied, so this is new to me.”
The sessions on menopause and periodontal health were also particularly well received, with delegates highlighting the need for more information on how hormonal changes can affect oral health and the care we provide. It was encouraging to see such enthusiasm for topics that have a real impact on patients but may not always receive the attention they deserve in dental education.
More than just CPD!
Of course, no visit to Edinburgh Zoo would be complete without meeting some of its residents!
Alongside the learning, the day offered plenty of time to ask questions, exchange ideas and catch up with colleagues. At lunchtime, delegates enjoyed a ranger-led tour and animal meet and greet, providing a welcome break from the morning sessions.
And the star of the show?
Pacha the Three Banded Armadillo!
It wasn’t just the presentations that made the event special. Delegates mentioned in feedback that they particularly appreciated the opportunity to chat with the speakers and the friendly, welcoming atmosphere throughout the day.
As two attendees put it:
“Brilliant speakers, highly informative and lots of time to chat afterwards.”
“Loved my day and the team were so friendly and approachable.”
For us, this is what great CPD is all about: bringing people together to learn, ask questions and have meaningful conversations in a relaxed and supportive environment.
A huge thank you to our speakers, Dr Louise O’Dowd, Dr Jackie Davidson, Dr Julia Hanlon and Dr Sigi Joseph, for sharing their knowledge and expertise and to everyone who joined us and contributed to such a positive day.
At Vermilion, we believe great dentistry is about more than individual treatments. It’s about continually developing our knowledge, working collaboratively and understanding the person behind the smile. Events like this give us the chance to explore new perspectives and consider how a better understanding of our patients’ overall health can support the care we provide.
We’re already looking forward to bringing the dental community together again for our next events!
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