Barcelona to Host Historic 4th Global IAPD Summit Amidst Sagrada Família Completion
The international paediatric dentistry community is set to converge in Barcelona, Spain, for the highly anticipated 4th Global IAPD Summit, scheduled to take place from November 13-15, 2026. This landmark event promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience, not only for its robust scientific program but also for its unique temporal alignment with the anticipated completion of one of the world’s most iconic architectural marvels, Antoni Gaudí’s Sagrada Família. The summit, organized by the International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD), will offer a unique confluence of cutting-edge advancements in paediatric oral healthcare and a historic cultural moment, making it a significant gathering for professionals worldwide.
A Convergence of Vision and Endeavor: The Sagrada Família Milestone
The year 2026 holds profound significance for Barcelona and the architectural world, as it marks the anticipated completion of the Sagrada Família’s central tower. This monumental undertaking, conceived by the visionary architect Antoni Gaudí, has been in progress for over 140 years. Coincidentally, 2026 also commemorates the centenary of Gaudí’s death, adding another layer of historical resonance to the basilica’s final stages. The IAPD has strategically leveraged this extraordinary timing, recognizing that the completion of such a celebrated cultural and architectural achievement provides an unparalleled backdrop for a global summit focused on collaboration, innovation, and perseverance – themes that echo the very spirit of the Sagrada Família’s construction.
Delegates attending the 4th Global IAPD Summit will have the distinct privilege of witnessing this historic moment firsthand, immersing themselves in the grandeur of a monument that embodies dedication, meticulous planning, and intergenerational commitment. The parallel between the Sagrada Família’s enduring vision and the IAPD’s mission to shape the future of paediatric dentistry is striking. Both represent a long-term commitment to excellence, a dedication to collaborative effort, and a testament to the power of sustained endeavor to achieve monumental goals. This unique synergy is expected to foster an inspiring atmosphere for knowledge exchange and professional development.
Scientific Excellence Meets Cultural Immersion
Beyond its symbolic resonance, the 4th Global IAPD Summit is meticulously designed to deliver a world-class scientific program. The agenda will delve into critical areas of paediatric dentistry, featuring cutting-edge discussions on topics such as early orthodontics, preventive care strategies, and advancements in restorative techniques for children. The summit aims to foster a dynamic environment for professionals to share research findings, exchange clinical experiences, and collectively address the evolving challenges in paediatric oral health.
The opportunity to connect with a diverse international cohort of paediatric dentists, researchers, and allied health professionals is a cornerstone of the IAPD Summit experience. These interactions are invaluable for building global networks, facilitating collaborative research initiatives, and promoting a unified approach to children’s oral well-being. Barcelona, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and architectural splendor, provides an idyllic setting for such an exchange, offering delegates ample opportunities to explore its treasures during their stay. The blend of academic rigor and cultural enrichment promises an unforgettable and highly rewarding experience for all participants.
Empowering Early-Career Researchers: The JSPD Travel Award
In a significant move to foster the next generation of dental leaders, the IAPD is actively promoting the Japanese Society of Pediatric Dentistry (JSPD) Travel Award. This prestigious award offers an exceptional opportunity for eligible early-career researchers from developing countries to present their work at the 4th Global IAPD Summit in Barcelona. The JSPD Travel Award, generously supported by the Japanese Society of Pediatric Dentistry, aims to recognize and support outstanding research contributions to paediatric dentistry and child oral health.
Up to two awards will be presented to exceptional postgraduate students, postdoctoral researchers, or clinicians actively engaged in research. This initiative underscores the IAPD’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing a global platform for emerging researchers to showcase their innovations. By facilitating their participation in international forums, the award not only elevates the visibility of their work but also connects them with leading experts, fostering mentorship and potential collaborations that can shape the future trajectory of their careers and the field itself. The abstract submission deadline for this award, and indeed for the summit presentations, is a critical juncture for researchers eager to contribute to the discourse on children’s oral health.
IAPD’s Growing Global Presence: Prague and Beyond
The IAPD’s influence and commitment to advancing paediatric dentistry extend globally, as evidenced by its participation in other significant international events. The association is set to host a dedicated IAPD Symposium at the FDI World Dental Congress in Prague, Czech Republic, from September 4-7, 2026. This symposium will serve as a vital platform for sharing knowledge and fostering dialogue on key aspects of paediatric oral care.
The symposium will commence with an address by Prof. Dr. Figen Seymen, Immediate Past President of the IAPD, who will provide an overview of the organization’s expanding educational initiatives. Prof. Seymen will also deliver a presentation on "Minimal Intervention in Paediatric Dentistry," a crucial approach for modern dental practice. The program will continue with insights from Dr. Arina Vinereanu from Romania, who will address "Pain Management in Paediatric Dentistry," a topic of paramount importance for ensuring positive patient experiences. Representing the host country, Dr. Jana Vašková from the Czech Republic will share her expertise on "Prefabricated Crowns in Paediatric Dentistry," offering practical clinical solutions. With its focus on prevention, evidence-based care, and practical clinical strategies, the IAPD Symposium in Prague is poised to be a significant event for professionals seeking to engage with current international perspectives in paediatric dentistry.
The Digital Transformation of Dental Research: IJPD Goes Online
In a progressive move towards sustainability and enhanced accessibility, the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry (IJPD) has transitioned to a digital-first format. This strategic shift significantly reduces the environmental impact associated with printing and international shipping, aligning with global efforts towards more responsible dissemination of scientific knowledge. The digital platform offers a more efficient and convenient way for IAPD members and the broader scientific community to access the latest research findings.
IAPD members can now access IJPD content seamlessly through the IAPD Membership Portal, ensuring immediate access to the latest issues and articles. This transition empowers members to stay at the forefront of research developments with greater ease. Furthermore, individuals can opt-in for IJPD email alerts by subscribing through the journal’s homepage, ensuring they are promptly notified of new publications. This digital evolution signifies IAPD’s commitment to embracing modern technologies to serve its global community effectively and sustainably.
Celebrating Excellence: IAPD Fellows and the Path Forward
The IAPD also takes immense pride in celebrating the achievements of its fellows who successfully completed their examinations in 2025. This recognition highlights their dedication to continuous professional development and their commitment to upholding the highest standards in paediatric dentistry. The IAPD is currently accepting applications for the 2027 Examination, inviting qualified professionals to embark on this rigorous pathway towards fellowship. This program not only validates individual expertise but also strengthens the collective knowledge base of the IAPD, contributing to the advancement of children’s oral health worldwide.
Shofu and IAPD: A Partnership for Innovation in Caries Management
The ongoing collaboration between the International Association of Paediatric Dentistry and Shofu, a global leader in dental innovation, continues to drive advancements in caries management. Shofu’s long-standing reputation for pioneering cutting-edge technologies and developing forward-thinking products, spanning over a century, aligns perfectly with the IAPD’s mission. Their commitment to research and development has consistently yielded solutions that support preventive, minimally invasive, and evidence-based dental care.
Shofu’s deep-rooted research culture, bolstered by advanced research facilities, integrates medical science, materials engineering, and clinical expertise to create novel product categories that significantly contribute to global oral health. The IAPD is pleased to announce that Shofu will also sponsor a unique, one-off award at the 31st IAPD Congress in Osaka, Japan, in 2027. This special award will further underscore Shofu’s dedication to recognizing excellence and innovation in paediatric dentistry. Together, the IAPD and Shofu are steadfast in their commitment to fostering scientific excellence and clinical innovation for the benefit of children’s oral health worldwide.
Engaging Webinars: Expanding Knowledge Access
The IAPD is actively enhancing knowledge dissemination through its series of engaging webinars. A notable upcoming webinar is scheduled for July 26, featuring Dr. Ahmed Fawzy Rady, who will present on "Clinical Insights into Everyday Challenges in Pediatric Dentistry." These webinars offer invaluable opportunities for professionals to gain practical insights and engage with leading experts from the comfort of their own settings.
It is important to note that IAPD live webinars are exclusively hosted on Zoom and are not streamed on social media platforms. This ensures a focused and interactive learning environment. IAPD members not only benefit from active participation but also receive a certificate of attendance, and have the option to revisit recorded lectures in the IAPD Video Lecture Centre. These exclusive benefits highlight the significant value of IAPD membership, encouraging professionals to join and leverage these enriching resources.
Spotlight on IAPD Consensus Recommendations: Management of Ankyloglossia
This month’s IAPD E-News shines a light on the critical Consensus Recommendation on the Management of Ankyloglossia, commonly known as tongue-tie. Ankyloglossia is characterized by a short or tight lingual frenulum, which can restrict tongue movement and potentially lead to feeding difficulties in newborns. While the condition is relatively common, its diagnosis and management continue to be subjects of discussion among healthcare professionals.
The IAPD’s latest consensus recommendations emphasize the importance of thorough assessment and careful case selection prior to considering surgical intervention. These guidelines provide practical and evidence-based guidance to support healthcare providers in offering optimal care for children affected by ankyloglossia. By exploring these recommendations, professionals can enhance their understanding and application of best practices in managing this condition.
Global Reach and Community Engagement: News from Around the Globe
The IAPD actively fosters a connected global community by providing a platform for National Member Societies to showcase their events. Societies are encouraged to submit details of their upcoming congresses, symposia, and educational activities to be featured on the IAPD website. This initiative facilitates wider reach and engagement, promoting collaborative learning and knowledge sharing across diverse geographical regions. Professionals are invited to submit their event details through the provided online form, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the IAPD’s global network.
