The International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD) has officially announced its highly anticipated 4th Global IAPD Summit, scheduled to convene in the vibrant city of Barcelona from November 13-15, 2026. This significant gathering will bring together a global community of paediatric dental professionals, researchers, and clinicians under the compelling theme, "Early Orthodontics Anchored in Evidence: An Integration Between Paediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics." Registration and abstract submissions are now open, inviting experts to contribute to a crucial dialogue shaping the future of children’s oral health.
The Summit’s chosen theme underscores a growing recognition within the field of the interconnectedness between early orthodontic interventions and foundational paediatric dental care. This integration aims to foster a more comprehensive and evidence-based approach to managing developing dentitions, ultimately leading to improved long-term oral health outcomes for children. The IAPD’s decision to focus on this interdisciplinary aspect reflects a broader trend in dentistry towards holistic patient care and the leveraging of scientific evidence to guide clinical practice. Paediatric dentists are increasingly tasked with identifying and managing orthodontic issues at their earliest stages, necessitating a deeper understanding of both disciplines.
A Deep Dive into the 4th Global IAPD Summit Programme
The 4th Global IAPD Summit promises an immersive scientific experience, designed to facilitate robust discussion, collaborative research, and the establishment of consensus on critical issues. The programme is being meticulously curated to feature a distinguished faculty of leading experts and researchers, offering attendees unparalleled opportunities to deepen their clinical knowledge, engage in vital international discussions, and forge connections with peers from across the globe.
The event is strategically timed to address the evolving landscape of paediatric dentistry. Early orthodontic interventions are gaining prominence as clinicians and researchers increasingly understand their potential to prevent more complex issues later in life, reduce the need for extensive treatment, and improve a child’s overall quality of life. The summit’s emphasis on "anchored in evidence" signifies a commitment to evidence-based practice, encouraging participants to critically evaluate current approaches and embrace scientifically validated methodologies. This focus is particularly relevant in an era where misinformation can proliferate, and a strong foundation in research is paramount for effective patient care.
Barcelona, a city renowned for its rich cultural heritage and modern innovation, provides an inspiring backdrop for this global convergence. The choice of location underscores the IAPD’s commitment to hosting its flagship events in accessible and engaging international hubs, fostering an environment conducive to both academic exchange and professional networking. Attendees can anticipate not only a stimulating scientific agenda but also opportunities to experience the unique charm and hospitality of Catalonia.
IAPD Embraces a Digital-First Future for Its Flagship Journal
In a significant move towards greater sustainability and accessibility, the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry (IJPD) is transitioning to an online-only format. This strategic decision marks a pivotal moment for the journal, aligning its publication model with contemporary environmental imperatives and the evolving consumption habits of its readership.
The shift away from print publications is a conscious effort by the IAPD to reduce its environmental footprint. By eliminating the need for paper production, printing, and international shipping of physical journals, the association is actively contributing to resource conservation and a reduction in carbon emissions. This commitment to sustainability is becoming increasingly important for professional organizations worldwide, as they seek to operate in a manner that is both responsible and forward-thinking.
Despite the move to a digital-only format, the IAPD assures its members that access to high-quality research remains paramount. Members can continue to access the latest issues and archived articles through the dedicated IAPD Membership Portal, ensuring that cutting-edge research remains readily available at their fingertips. This digital accessibility not only enhances convenience but also allows for more dynamic content delivery, potentially including multimedia elements and interactive features in the future.
To further enhance accessibility and engagement, the IJPD is encouraging readers to sign up for email alerts. This service ensures that members and interested parties receive direct notifications whenever new content is published, allowing them to stay abreast of the latest developments in paediatric dentistry without delay. By providing this direct line of communication, the IAPD aims to foster a more engaged and informed readership. This digital-first approach reflects a modern, efficient, and eco-conscious strategy for disseminating vital scientific knowledge within the global paediatric dental community.
A Tribute to a Luminary: In Memoriam – Professor Hugo Furze
The International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD) is in mourning following the passing of Professor Hugo Furze of Argentina, a distinguished figure who served as President of the IAPD from 2003 to 2005. Professor Furze’s dedication to advancing paediatric dentistry and his unwavering commitment to the IAPD’s global mission left an indelible mark on the profession.
During his presidency, Professor Furze played a pivotal role in strengthening international collaboration within the paediatric dental community. He guided the Association through a period of significant growth and development, fostering a more interconnected and supportive global network of professionals. His leadership was characterized by a vision for a world where every child has access to optimal oral healthcare, a vision that continues to inspire the IAPD’s work.
Professor Furze will be remembered not only for his impactful leadership and profound commitment to paediatric dentistry but also for his warm collegial spirit and his enduring contributions to the field both in Argentina and internationally. His legacy is woven into the fabric of the IAPD, and his influence will continue to be felt for generations to come. On behalf of the entire global IAPD family, sincere condolences are extended to his family, friends, colleagues, and all who had the privilege of knowing and collaborating with him. His passing is a significant loss to the paediatric dentistry community.
Strengthening Global Bonds: IAPD’s Presence at AAPD 2026
The IAPD recently demonstrated its commitment to fostering international collaboration by participating in the AAPD 2026 Annual Session held in Las Vegas. Members of the IAPD Executive Committee were in attendance, underscoring the strong and ongoing partnership between the IAPD and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD).
Representing the IAPD at this significant event were Dr. Anna Maria Vierrou (Secretary General), Dr. Soni Stephen (President), Dr. Virinder Goyal (President Elect), and Dr. Jorge Castillo (Past President). Their presence highlighted the IAPD’s dedication to engaging with national member organizations and contributing to global dialogues on paediatric oral health.
A key highlight of the IAPD’s participation was a compelling presentation delivered by Dr. Anna Maria Vierrou and Dr. Jorge Castillo. Their lecture, titled "Decision Making in the Developing Dentition: Global Perspectives on Early Intervention," was structured as an interactive clinical decision-making session. This format encouraged active audience engagement through live polls, dynamic discussions, and case-based scenarios, reflecting a modern approach to continuing education that prioritizes participant involvement.
The session delved into diverse global perspectives on early intervention in paediatric dentistry, fostering a rich exchange of ideas and practical approaches among attendees. The enthusiastic reception and high level of interaction from the audience were a testament to the growing importance of collaborative learning and international dialogue in advancing patient care. Such exchanges are crucial for sharing best practices, understanding regional challenges, and developing universally applicable solutions in paediatric oral health. The IAPD expressed its delight in connecting with colleagues during AAPD 2026 and reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening global partnerships in paediatric dentistry.
Celebrating Achievement: The IAPD Fellowship Programme
The IAPD is proud to announce and celebrate the successful completion of examinations by its fellows in 2025. This achievement signifies a profound dedication to continuing education and a commitment to upholding the highest standards of paediatric dental practice. The IAPD Fellowship is a mark of distinction, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated exceptional knowledge and skill in the field.
The IAPD Fellowship programme is designed to recognize and encourage advanced professional development. It provides a structured pathway for paediatric dentists to deepen their expertise, refine their clinical skills, and contribute to the advancement of the specialty. The rigorous examination process ensures that fellows possess a comprehensive understanding of current research, clinical guidelines, and best practices.
Applications for the 2027 Examination are now open, offering another opportunity for dedicated professionals to pursue this esteemed qualification. The IAPD encourages eligible candidates to take advantage of this opportunity to advance their careers and contribute to the collective knowledge base of paediatric dentistry. Achieving IAPD Fellowship is not only a personal accomplishment but also a benefit to the children and families these professionals serve, assuring them of high-quality, evidence-based care.
A Legacy of Excellence: Kids-e-Dental Sponsors the Bengt Magnusson Memorial Prize
The International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD) is honored to recognize Kids-e-Dental as the esteemed sponsor of the Bengt Magnusson Memorial Prize in Child Dental Health. This prestigious award serves to commemorate Professor Bengt Magnusson of Göteborg, Sweden, a visionary figure and a foundational member of the IAPD who dedicated his life to advancing paediatric dentistry until his passing in 1981.
Awarded annually at the IAPD Congress, the Bengt Magnusson Memorial Prize celebrates the best submitted essay on a topic relevant to child dental health. This prize embodies Professor Magnusson’s lifelong commitment to improving oral health outcomes for children and his passion for academic excellence in the field. By supporting this award, Kids-e-Dental actively contributes to the recognition of high-quality research and thoughtful clinical perspectives that are vital for the progress of paediatric oral care globally.
Kids-e-Dental has established itself as a trusted and innovative leader in paediatric dentistry, with a specialized focus on developing products meticulously tailored to the unique needs of children. Their approach emphasizes creating positive and effective dental experiences, while simultaneously empowering clinicians to deliver care that is both preventive and aligned with modern expectations. This dedication to child-centric care and clinical support resonates deeply with the IAPD’s mission.
In an era where dentistry is increasingly shifting towards prevention, minimally invasive techniques, and an appreciation for aesthetics, Kids-e-Dental remains at the forefront of innovation. Their continuous engagement with the global dental community allows them to adapt to emerging needs and maintain an unwavering commitment to quality, usability, and patient-centered care. The IAPD extends its profound gratitude to Kids-e-Dental for their invaluable support of the Bengt Magnusson Memorial Prize and their significant contributions to the advancement of paediatric dental care worldwide. Their sponsorship ensures that Professor Magnusson’s legacy of excellence and dedication to children’s oral health continues to be celebrated and promoted.
Upcoming Educational Opportunities: IAPD Webinars
The IAPD is pleased to announce an exciting series of upcoming webinars designed to provide valuable educational opportunities for its members and the broader paediatric dental community. These online sessions offer convenient access to expert insights on a range of critical topics.
On May 31st, Dr. Tetiana Peshko will present a webinar, sponsored by Ultradent, focusing on the "Integrative Approach in Caries Prevention." This session promises to offer practical strategies for a comprehensive approach to managing and preventing dental caries in children, a cornerstone of paediatric dental practice.
Following this, on June 14th, Dr. Juan Fernando Yepes will lead a webinar titled "Radiology in the Paediatric Patient." This presentation is expected to delve into the essential role of radiographic imaging in the diagnosis and management of dental conditions in children, highlighting best practices and emerging technologies.
Exclusive Benefits for IAPD Members
It is important for participants to note that IAPD live webinars are exclusively hosted on Zoom. There will be no live streaming available on social media platforms, emphasizing the need for individuals to register in advance to secure their participation. The IAPD strongly encourages its members to take full advantage of these educational offerings.
IAPD members not only gain the opportunity to actively participate in live discussions but are also eligible to receive a certificate of attendance, which can be valuable for continuing professional development. Furthermore, recorded lectures are made available in the IAPD Video Lecture Centre, allowing members to revisit the content at their convenience. These exclusive benefits underscore the significant value of IAPD membership, providing access to a wealth of resources and opportunities for professional growth. The IAPD actively promotes joining the organization to leverage these comprehensive benefits.
Spotlight on IAPD Consensus Recommendations: Dental Anomalies
This month’s edition of the IAPD E-News shines a spotlight on the critical topic of Dental Anomalies, highlighting the IAPD’s Consensus Recommendations. These recommendations provide invaluable guidance for clinicians managing a wide spectrum of developmental anomalies affecting children’s dentition.
Dental anomalies, which can impact enamel, dentine, tooth number, eruption patterns, aesthetics, and overall quality of life, necessitate timely diagnosis and appropriate management strategies. The IAPD’s consensus document offers practical approaches to conditions such as amelogenesis imperfecta, dentinogenesis imperfecta, dentin dysplasia, hypodontia (missing teeth), supernumerary teeth (extra teeth), dens evaginatus, dens invaginatus, and natal or neonatal teeth.
The recommendations emphasize a patient-centered approach, advocating for careful monitoring, early intervention where appropriate, restorative care, and multidisciplinary management. They highlight the importance of comprehensive treatment planning that considers the individual needs and long-term prognosis for each child. By exploring these consensus recommendations, dental professionals can enhance their ability to provide effective and evidence-based care for children presenting with dental anomalies, thereby improving their oral health and overall well-being.
News from Around the Globe: National Member Societies
The IAPD actively fosters a network of national member societies, encouraging the sharing of information and events across the global paediatric dental community. National Member Societies have the opportunity to showcase their events on the IAPD website, extending their reach and promoting engagement.
Interested societies are invited to submit their event details through a dedicated online form, enabling the IAPD to feature these important local and regional gatherings to a wider audience. This initiative strengthens the IAPD’s role as a central hub for paediatric dentistry, facilitating connections and knowledge exchange between various national organizations and their members. Such collaborations are essential for advancing the specialty on a global scale and ensuring that best practices are shared and adopted widely.
