Periodontology: latest developments

Irish Dentistry hears from the Irish Society of Periodontology about the huge success of its annual meeting last October.

Held in Dublin over 20 and 21 October 2023, the Irish Society of Periodontology (ISP) annual meeting has been heralded a success.

Bringing together more than 40 specialists in the field, one of the highlights of this enriching and informative event was the keynote address by Professor Giulio Rasperini, who led discussions on the evolution of techniques in periodontal regeneration, with a particular emphasis on interproximal attachment gain.

Dr Richard Lee-Kin, president of the Irish Society of Periodontology, remarked: ‘Our 2023 annual meeting exceeded our expectations in terms of knowledge sharing and professional development. 

‘We were honoured to have Professor Giulio Rasperini as our keynote speaker. His insights added immense value to our members’ expertise. 

‘The hands-on course on papilla preservation surgical techniques was an excellent addition, providing our members with practical skills they can implement in their daily practice.’

A comprehensive update

The programme for the event was carefully designed to encompass a wide range of topics, ensuring that attendees received a comprehensive update on the latest developments in periodontology. 

The lectures covered various essential aspects of periodontal care, from foundational principles to advanced surgical techniques and materials. 

The programme included:

• Periodontal foundations and treatment protocols: delving into fundamentals of periodontology, emphasising the treatment of inflammation with protocols such as guided biofilm therapy (GBT), one-stage full-mouth disinfection, antibiotic use indications, and maintenance protocols
• Mucogingival procedures: the second lecture focused on mucogingival procedures, providing detailed insights into techniques like the coronally advanced flap in single and multiple recessions, the lateral flap, and the tunnelling technique. The discussion also included biomaterials, growth factors, and connective tissue harvesting from the palate
• Periodontal regeneration: the third and fourth lectures were dedicated to periodontal regeneration. These sessions explored the evolution of surgical techniques and biomaterials, introducing the new concept of simultaneous treatment of soft and hard tissue. Attendees learned about innovative approaches aimed at regenerating the interproximal attachment and the papillae.

An enhanced experience

The event was not only a platform for academic growth but also for building camaraderie and fostering networking opportunities among the society’s members. A delightful dinner and drinks gathering enhanced the overall experience, further strengthening the sense of community within the Irish Society of Periodontology.

The ISP annual meeting continues to be a cornerstone event for periodontal specialists in Ireland, ensuring they stay at the forefront of the latest advancements in their field. The next event will take place on 25 and 26 October 2024 and the guest speaker will be Professor Anton Sculean.

For more information, visit isperio.ie.