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Details make perfection: Global experts push the boundaries of osseointegration at EAO 2024

Themed “Details make perfection”, this year’s EAO congress provides a blend of educational sessions, hands-on workshops and engaging debates aimed at advancing knowledge in implant dentistry. (Image: Robert Strehler)

Thu. 24. October 2024

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MILAN, Italy: The annual European Association for Osseointegration (EAO) congress, starting today in Milan, is a premier platform for dental professionals to exchange knowledge and discover the latest advancements in implant dentistry, especially in osseointegration. This year’s theme, “Details make perfection,” highlights the event’s focus on both fundamental practices and innovative future approaches, with educational sessions, workshops, and debates aimed at advancing the field.

In an interview with Dental Tribune International ahead of the congress, renowned periodontist Dr Otto Zuhr expressed his enthusiasm for the event: “I am particularly excited about the focus on peri-implantitis treatment and the role of digital technologies. The live surgery demonstration on vertical hard-tissue defects will be a highlight, offering practical insights into a complex and increasingly relevant area of implant dentistry.”

The congress is being held jointly by the EAO and two prestigious Italian organisations: the Italian Academy of Osseointegration (IAO) and the Italian Society of Periodontology and Implantology (SIdP). Together, they are hosting sessions combining their respective scientific perspectives to address pressing clinical challenges.

A multifaceted scientific programme

This year’s congress is structured around a core theme for each of the three days: “The fundamentals”, “State of the art—certainties” and “Beyond the limits”. These themes reflect the evolving nature of dental implantology, and the programme covers both the foundational elements of the field and its future potential.

Dr Giovanni Zucchelli, co-chair of the scientific committee, highlighted the significance of this year’s meeting: “The EAO congress is a tremendous opportunity not just for Italian societies but for the entire global dental community. With the theme ‘Beyond the limits’, we are looking forward to exploring new horizons in implant dentistry, particularly how we can overcome current challenges and limitations in osseointegration treatment.”

The first day, dedicated to “The fundamentals”, will include in-depth discussions on essential topics such as osseointegration, implant surface characteristics and treatment planning. Under the title “My first implant”, a hands-on session organised by the EAO Junior Committee will provide theoretical and practical insights into successful implant placement and complication management for newer practitioners.

Focused on “State of the art—certainties”, the second day will bring together experts to discuss up-to-date, evidence-based practices. Speakers will explore certainties in implant dentistry, sharing techniques that can be immediately applied in clinical settings. Key topics will include peri-implantitis treatment, digital workflows and guided surgery techniques.

The final day, themed “Beyond the limits”, will address the future of implantology and its exciting possibilities. Debates will focus on overcoming current limitations in osseointegration and exploring advancements in the use of artificial intelligence in dental practices.

The official language of this year’s EAO congress is English, though interpretation into Italian and other languages will be available for select sessions. A special programme for dental hygienists will take place on Saturday, 26 October, and will be presented in Italian by the IAO and SIdP.

A global line-up of experts

The congress is renowned for its international speaker line-up, and this year is no exception. More than 70 experts from across the globe will share their research, experience and predictions on the future of implant dentistry. Notable names include Prof. Daniel Buser and Vincent Fehmer from Switzerland, Prof. Mariano Sanz from Spain and Dr Massimo Simion from Italy. Their sessions will highlight the latest scientific findings and clinical innovations, providing attendees with a well-rounded update in the field.

Industry innovations and hands-on opportunities

One of the highlights of the congress is the exhibition, at which industry leaders are showcasing cutting-edge products and technologies aimed at advancing dental practice. Companies such as Straumann, Nobel Biocare, Dentsply Sirona and Geistlich Pharma will host industry forums, offering insights into their latest research and development initiatives. Attendees will have opportunities to participate in hands-on workshops, where they will test new materials and tools and learn innovative techniques to improve patient care.

The Young Generation Session, scheduled for Thursday, 24 October, is another highly anticipated feature. This session aims to inspire the next wave of dental innovators, and young professionals have been invited to present their cases in a competition setting. The focus of this year’s challenge, “Simplification through innovation”, encourages participants to demonstrate how innovative techniques can simplify complex dental procedures.

For those looking to expand their practical skills, hands-on workshops are being offered with support from sponsors such as BioHorizons Camlog, Osstem Implant and HuFriedyGroup. These sessions are designed to provide clinicians with the tools they need to refine their surgical techniques and improve clinical outcomes.

About the EAO

The EAO was founded in the late 1980s subsequent to a meeting in Munich in Germany organised by Prof. Per-Ingvar Brånemark, the father of modern implantology. Concerned scientists, teachers and clinicians gathered to address the growing influence of commercial companies on osseointegration and the lack of critical academic scrutiny in the field. They recognised the need for a forum where innovative work on reconstructive surgery and prosthetic rehabilitation could be presented with a scientific and clinical focus. The EAO was established to cover a wide range of medical and dental disciplines, including orthopaedics, periodontics and maxillofacial reconstruction, and held its first annual meeting in Leuven in Belgium in 1992, attracting over 500 attendees from 26 countries.

Since its inception, the EAO has grown significantly, its recent congresses attracting more than 4,000 participants and membership expanding to over 2,000. In 1993, the association designated Clinical Oral Implants Research as its official journal, further enhancing its scientific influence. The EAO has maintained strict independence from commercial sponsors, ensuring high scientific standards at its meetings. Although its original focus included applications beyond the mouth, over the years, its annual meetings have concentrated on clinical advancements in osseointegration. The board meets regularly to strategise and engage with the growing membership base, maintaining the EAO’s reputation as a leading forum for scientific and clinical excellence in the field.

In 2025, the congress will be held in Monaco from 18 to 20 September.

More information about the congress can be found at congress.eao.org.

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