Nicola Southern has gained more than 30 years of clinical experience across both NHS and private practice since qualifying as a Dental Hygienist from Leeds Dental Institute in 1984. An interest in gaining more insight into patient behaviour led Nicola to embark on a BSc in Psychology and her dissertation focused on reducing anxiety in patients during dental treatment. After completing her degree Nicola took a PGCE teaching qualification course and went on to lecture across a variety of psychology-related courses at Bolton College over an eight year period. More recently she has been involved in a research project at the University of Manchester, investigating the link between periodontitis and osteoporosis. As Research Hygienist on the project, Nicola was able to draw on her knowledge of psychology and extensive clinical experience. During her time at the University she also had the opportunity to teach on the BSc Oral Health Science course. Nicola now works full time at a busy Bupa practice.
Qualifications: RDH BSc (Hons) Psychology PGCE