What an honour it was to have our very own Dr. Ana Paz represent the White Clinic at the 6th International Congress of Integrative Medicine and the 2nd International Congress of Integrative Dentistry, held at Exponor in Porto, Portugal, on December 6th, 2024. Her lecture, focusing on how we approach diagnostics at the White Clinic – with particular emphasis on liquid biopsy – was delivered to a packed room filled with national and international doctors.

Where it happened

The congress took place in the vibrant city of Porto, a hub for innovation and cultural richness in Portugal. The venue, Exponor, provided an excellent setting for collaboration, networking, and the exchange of groundbreaking ideas. This event has become one of the most prominent gatherings for professionals dedicated to integrative health, drawing over 1,400 participants from 20 different countries. Its international scope made it an ideal platform to showcase the pioneering work we do at the White Clinic. We were impressed by the large number of exhibitors – they came from all around the world, showcasing the latest technologies in the fields of integrative medicine and dentistry. We are also quite proud of the fact that we have been collaborating with some of the leading companies for many years now, showing how cutting-edge the White Clinic is when it comes to integrative healthcare and biohacking technologies.

Why it matters

The main focus of the congress was cancer, a subject of increasing importance in both the medical and dental fields. At the White Clinic, we frequently treat patients dealing with cancer and autoimmune diseases, and we’ve seen firsthand how these systemic conditions often correlate with oral health. The mouth is the gateway to the body, and inflammation or infections in the oral cavity can exacerbate systemic conditions. This correlation underscores the critical need for integrative approaches to diagnosis and treatment. This is why we work closely with Missing Link, an AI-powered screening technology that scans the mouth for inflammation, helping connect the dots with systemic issues. The connection between oral inflammation and systemic health is real and scientifically-backed.

Dr. Ana Paz’s lecture addressed this pressing issue, emphasising that traditional diagnostic methods alone are no longer sufficient. The integration of advanced tools like liquid biopsy, such as the RGCC, is essential for early detection and comprehensive care. By identifying circulating tumour cells and other biomarkers, we can gain deeper insights into a patient’s overall health, enabling targeted interventions that can potentially save lives.

We work hand-in-hand in a collaborative manner with many healthcare providers, offering our patients a truly integrative pathway to healing. Our major focus is always eliminating oral inflammation and as a result, systemic inflammation.  

What was presented

Dr. Ana Paz’s presentation was both insightful and impactful. She delved into the methods we use at the White Clinic to diagnose and treat patients holistically. A significant portion of her talk was dedicated to liquid biopsy, an innovative diagnostic tool that allows for the detection of cancer markers in the bloodstream. This non-invasive method is revolutionising how we approach early detection and personalised care.

She also highlighted the importance of addressing oral inflammation and infections as part of a broader strategy to combat systemic diseases. Chronic oral issues, such as periodontal disease or infected root canals, can act as silent contributors to systemic inflammation. By using advanced imaging, microbiome analysis, and molecular diagnostics, we’re able to identify and treat these issues at their source.

Dr. Paz shared several case studies, from A-Z, to illustrate how these diagnostic techniques have transformed patient outcomes. As an implant surgeon with a focus on ceramic implants and “Oral Detox”, she has a lot of daily first-hand experience on this subject.

From a diagnostic perspective, here at the White Clinic we have a unique opportunity to perform so much more than just a dental checkup. After all we are a medical practice.

From detecting early-stage cancers to improving the quality of life for patients with autoimmune conditions, her examples underscored the life-changing potential of integrative diagnostics.

How we approach diagnosis

At the White Clinic, our approach to diagnosis is rooted in innovation and a commitment to excellence. We believe that the future of healthcare lies in understanding the interconnectedness of the body’s systems. This philosophy drives our use of state-of-the-art technology and our collaboration with experts across medical and dental disciplines.

Liquid biopsy is just one of the many tools we employ. It enables us to detect minute changes in a patient’s health before symptoms become apparent. This proactive approach allows us to tailor treatments to the individual, ensuring the best possible outcomes. Additionally, we utilise Vit D testing, saliva microbiome testing, genetic tests, full blood work, hair testing for heavy metals, metal hypersensitivities, 3D CBCT digital imaging, 3D printing, dark chamber microscopy and artificial intelligence to enhance our diagnostic capabilities.

Another cornerstone of our approach is patient education. We believe that informed patients are empowered patients. By explaining the science behind our methods and the reasons for our recommendations, we help patients take an active role in their health journey.

The impact

The response to Dr. Ana Paz’s lecture was overwhelmingly positive. A packed room with doctors from around the world were eager to learn more about the techniques and philosophies that drive our success at the White Clinic. Many attendees expressed interest in adopting similar practices in their own clinics, highlighting the far-reaching influence of our work. We were very happy to have several mentions on stage from the incredible Dr. Tony Jimenez from HOPE FOR CANCER, a US based doctor with clinics in Mexico who was the previous speaker.

This event also served as a reminder of the importance of collaboration. By bringing together experts from diverse fields, we can continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible in integrative health care.

Dr. Paz and Dr. Stanley spent time with Dr. Ana Moreira and Dr. Anabela Peres de Sousa who both worked very hard to make this event possible, and they loved meeting them both. They make Portugal proud.

Looking ahead

As we reflect on this incredible opportunity to share our knowledge and learn from others, we’re more motivated than ever to continue advancing the field of integrative dentistry. Our participation in events like the ICIM congress is not just about showcasing our work; it’s about contributing to a global movement that prioritises patient-centred care and innovation.

Congratulations Dr. Ana Paz!

If you’d like to learn more about the event, visit the official ICIM website.