International Association of Paediatric Dentistry Announces 4th Global Summit in Barcelona, Highlights Key Developments in Paediatric Dental Care

The International Association of Paediatric Dentistry (IAPD) is gearing up to host its highly anticipated 4th Global IAPD Summit in Barcelona from November 13-15, 2026. This pivotal event, themed "Early Orthodontics Anchored in Evidence: An Integration Between Paediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics," promises to be a cornerstone for professionals dedicated to advancing the oral health of children worldwide. Registration and abstract submissions are now open, inviting a global community of paediatric dentists, orthodontists, researchers, and clinicians to engage in a dynamic scientific program.

The summit’s focus on the integration of paediatric dentistry and orthodontics addresses a growing need for cohesive treatment strategies in early childhood dental development. Early orthodontic intervention, when supported by robust scientific evidence, can significantly impact long-term oral health outcomes, reduce the complexity of later treatments, and improve a child’s overall well-being. This theme reflects a broader trend in dental specialties towards interdisciplinary collaboration and evidence-based practice. The 4th Global IAPD Summit aims to foster discussions and consensus-building among leading experts, offering a platform for sharing cutting-edge research, innovative clinical techniques, and best practices. The choice of Barcelona, a city renowned for its vibrant culture and commitment to innovation, provides an inspiring backdrop for this significant gathering.

A Legacy of Leadership and a Vision for the Future

The IAPD community is also reflecting on the profound legacy of Professor Hugo Furze, who served as President of the IAPD from 2003 to 2005. Professor Furze’s passing marks the end of an era for many who knew him and benefited from his dedication to paediatric dentistry. His tenure as president was instrumental in fostering international collaboration and guiding the association during a period of significant growth. His contributions to strengthening the global network of paediatric dental professionals and his unwavering commitment to improving children’s oral health are deeply remembered. The IAPD extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues, acknowledging his enduring impact on the profession both in Argentina and on the international stage.

The International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry Embraces a Digital Future

In a move towards greater sustainability and accessibility, the International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry (IJPD) has transitioned to an online-only format. This significant shift reduces the environmental impact associated with printing and distribution, aligning with global efforts to promote eco-conscious practices. By eliminating physical copies, the journal ensures that its high-quality research remains readily available to IAPD members and the broader scientific community through the IAPD Membership Portal. This digital-first approach not only enhances accessibility but also allows for more frequent updates and immediate dissemination of critical findings in paediatric dentistry. Members can opt-in for email alerts to receive the latest research directly, ensuring they stay at the forefront of their field. This transition underscores the journal’s commitment to modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible scientific publishing.

Strengthening Global Partnerships at AAPD 2026

The IAPD demonstrated its commitment to global collaboration by participating in the AAPD 2026 Annual Session in Las Vegas. The presence of IAPD Executive Committee members, including Secretary General Dr. Anna Maria Vierrou, President Dr. Soni Stephen, President Elect Dr. Virinder Goyal, and Past President Dr. Jorge Castillo, highlighted the strong and active international ties between paediatric dental organizations worldwide. A key event during their participation was a presentation by Dr. Vierrou and Dr. Castillo on "Decision Making in the Developing Dentition: Global Perspectives on Early Intervention." This interactive session utilized live polling, discussions, and case studies to engage the audience, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas on early intervention strategies in paediatric dentistry. The session underscored the growing importance of collaborative learning and international dialogue in enhancing patient care globally. The IAPD’s engagement at the AAPD session reinforces its dedication to building and strengthening partnerships that drive progress in paediatric dental care.

Recognizing Excellence: IAPD Fellows and the Bengt Magnusson Memorial Prize

The IAPD is celebrating the outstanding achievements of its fellows who successfully completed their examinations in 2025. This milestone represents a significant commitment to continuous professional development and a dedication to upholding the highest standards in paediatric dentistry. The organization has also announced that applications for the 2027 Examination are now open, encouraging further engagement and advancement within the field.

Further underscoring the IAPD’s commitment to recognizing excellence is its partnership with Kids-e-Dental as the sponsor of the Bengt Magnusson Memorial Prize in Child Dental Health. This prestigious award honors Professor Bengt Magnusson, a pioneering figure in paediatric dentistry and a founding member of the IAPD. The prize is awarded for the best essay on child dental health, perpetuating Professor Magnusson’s lifelong dedication to advancing oral care for children. Kids-e-Dental’s sponsorship is a testament to their commitment to supporting high-quality research and innovative clinical perspectives that contribute to improving children’s oral health outcomes globally. Kids-e-Dental’s focus on developing specialized products for children, promoting positive dental experiences, and supporting preventive and minimally invasive approaches aligns perfectly with the evolving landscape of paediatric dentistry. Their dedication to innovation and patient-centered care makes them an ideal partner in recognizing outstanding contributions to the field. The IAPD expresses its sincere gratitude to Kids-e-Dental for their invaluable support.

Engaging Educational Opportunities: Upcoming Webinars

The IAPD continues to provide valuable educational opportunities through its webinar series. Upcoming sessions include:

• May 31: Dr. Tetiana Peshko will present "Integrative Approach in Caries Prevention," sponsored by Ultradent. This webinar will delve into comprehensive strategies for preventing dental caries in children, a prevalent concern in paediatric dentistry.
• June 14: Dr. Juan Fernando Yepes will lead a session on "Radiology in the Paediatric Patient." This presentation is crucial for understanding the appropriate use and interpretation of radiographic imaging in the diagnosis and management of dental conditions in children.

These webinars are exclusively hosted on Zoom, ensuring a secure and interactive learning environment. IAPD members benefit from active participation opportunities and are eligible to receive certificates of attendance. Recorded lectures are also available in the IAPD Video Lecture Centre, offering flexibility for continuous learning. The organization strongly encourages individuals to join IAPD to access these exclusive benefits and stay informed about the latest advancements.

Spotlight on IAPD Consensus Recommendations: Dental Anomalies

This month, the IAPD is highlighting its Consensus Recommendation on Dental Anomalies. Dental anomalies, which can affect tooth structure, number, eruption, and overall oral health, require precise diagnosis and management, particularly in paediatric patients. The IAPD’s comprehensive recommendations provide essential guidance for addressing a wide spectrum of conditions, including amelogenesis imperfecta, dentinogenesis imperfecta, hypodontia, supernumerary teeth, and natal teeth, among others. The recommendations emphasize practical approaches such as vigilant monitoring, early intervention, restorative treatments, multidisciplinary care, and patient-centered treatment planning. These guidelines are designed to equip clinicians with the knowledge and tools necessary to provide optimal care for children experiencing dental anomalies, thereby improving their long-term oral health and quality of life.

Global Network Engagement: News from National Member Societies

The IAPD actively fosters connections with its National Member Societies, recognizing the vital role they play in advancing paediatric dentistry at a regional level. The organization encourages these societies to showcase their events on the IAPD website, thereby increasing visibility and promoting participation within the global community. National Member Societies can submit their event details through a dedicated online form, facilitating the dissemination of information about conferences, workshops, and other significant activities. This initiative underscores the IAPD’s commitment to a collaborative approach, ensuring that valuable regional contributions are recognized and amplified across the international network. The IAPD is continuously working to strengthen these partnerships, facilitating knowledge exchange and promoting unified efforts to improve children’s oral health worldwide.