A note from our President…

It’s hard to believe that after all the time we’ve spent planning The Oral Health Summit, the event is almost here! I am so excited to welcome you all to Edinburgh and truly grateful that so many of our members are supporting this special conference.

Conferences are a wonderful opportunity to reconnect, share knowledge, and learn together. Life gets very busy and it’s essential that we take time to pause, reflect, and consider how we can continue to grow, both personally and professionally. No matter what stage we’re at in our careers, there is always something new to learn, and I’m confident you will take away valuable insights and skills to bring back to your practice.

I’m particularly looking forward to hearing the fantastic lectures our speakers have worked so hard to prepare and exploring the vibrant Trade Exhibition. Of course, the breaks and social events will also be a great chance to catch up with friends and colleagues — something I always enjoy.

As we approach the Conference, my to-do list seems longer than ever and multi-tasking has definitely been the theme of the month! In fact, I’m writing this article from La Granja, Spain, where I am currently representing the Society at the 21st European Workshop on Periodontology. Alongside leading international experts and stakeholders, we are developing a new clinical practice guideline on the management of gingival diseases and acute periodontal conditions. I look forward to updating you on the outcomes of this important work soon and adoloping the clinical guideline for the UK through the BSP.  My picture this month is with Professor Ina Kopp, who is the wonderful guideline methodologist for both the EFP and BSP, and a force to be reckoned with managing the consensus meetings.

I’m also eagerly awaiting the arrival of our next issue of The Periodical in the post this month. This edition features contributions from several of our international members, who share their experiences and the benefits they’ve gained from being part of the BSP. I plan to enjoy reading it with a well-deserved cup of tea once a few more items are ticked off my list!

Finally, the BSP Management Team will soon be emailing members with subscription renewal notices. I warmly encourage you to continue being part of the BSP family in 2026. Your membership and loyalty are vital to safeguarding the future of the Society and helping us continue our mission to achieve “Periodontal Health for a Better Life.”

Have a wonderful month ahead and I look forward to seeing many of you in Edinburgh very soon!

Very best wishes

Professor Nicola West

November 2025