Leading dental researchers convene at Dentaid Research Center in Barcelona

Held under the theme “Opening doors to scientific collaboration,” the event was led by Joan Gispert, manager of research and development at the Dentaid Research Center. He highlighted the importance of partnerships between academia and industry, stating: “Opening the doors of our home to the international scientific and medical community has given us a unique opportunity to explore synergies with the world’s leading oral health experts, share our main research lines, create a space for idea exchange, and continue co-creating knowledge with those who share our commitment to people’s health.”

The Dentaid Research Center is recognised as a leading institution in oral health innovation, with expertise spanning microbiology, pharmaceutics and engineering. Equipped with advanced technology, the centre focuses on identifying histological and physiological changes in the oral cavity—key to discovering new therapeutic targets to support systemic health and healthy ageing. Research topics include gum inflammation, peri-implant diseases and oral conditions linked to cardiovascular, metabolic and respiratory illnesses.

The facility operates across four core areas. These include research into oral biofilm microbiology and the development of both pharmaceutical and physical technologies. It also focuses on formulating scientifically validated oral health solutions—such as targeted toothpastes and mouthwashes tailored to specific needs—and on generating scientific knowledge. This knowledge is produced both in-house and in collaboration with universities, professional societies and dental experts. This integrated approach ensures that scientific discoveries are efficiently translated into practical, evidence-based applications that address real-world oral health challenges.

During the visit, guests toured the research facilities and met members of the multidisciplinary team of more than 50 professionals, including chemists, biologists, dentists and engineers.

Prof. Alejandra Chaparro, head of the Department of Pathology and Conservative Dentistry and director of research in the Faculty of Dentistry at Universidad de los Andes in Chile, praised the centre’s focus on real-world clinical impact: “The most enriching part of this visit was witnessing firsthand how scientific knowledge is translated into daily clinical practice. The Dentaid Research Center is a specialised hub, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and a highly qualified team. The work done here clearly shows why they’re leaders in the sector, as well as the company’s strong commitment to research, innovation and the development of safe, effective and innovative oral health solutions.”

Prof. David Herrera, associate dean of dental clinics at the Complutense University of Madrid in Spain, emphasised the need for interdisciplinary collaboration: “We’ve made significant progress in recent years, but key challenges remain—such as effectively translating scientific knowledge into clinical practice and increasing multidisciplinary collaboration. In this context, centres like the Dentaid Research Center play a crucial role in bringing science closer to professionals and patients while promoting applied research aligned with real professional needs.”

The event concluded with a networking dinner that encouraged discussion about the future of oral health research and opportunities for new partnerships.

Prof. Iain Chapple, professor of periodontology and director of research at the Institute of Clinical Sciences at the University of Birmingham in the UK, underscored the value of dialogue between academia and industry: “The connection between dental professionals and oral healthcare companies is essential to move forward together. Events like this facilitate idea exchange, help align research with the real needs of clinical practice, and open the door to collaborations that could transform how we understand and care for oral health.”

As Dentaid celebrates its 45^th anniversary, it reaffirms its commitment to global oral health improvement. In addition to developing safe, effective products, Dentaid promotes awareness and continuous education. More than 6,000 oral health professionals receive annual training through its Aula Dentaid platform.

More information about the centre can be found at www.dentaid.com/en/dentaid-research-center.