Co-hosted by FDI World Dental Federation and the Czech Dental Chamber, FDIWDC26 will bring together practitioners, researchers, educators and industry representatives. The congress will combine a scientific programme, an international exhibition and opportunities for professional exchange, giving participants a forum for discussing developments affecting clinical practice, education and oral health systems.

The congress will be held under the patronage of the prime minister of the Czech Republic, Andrej Babiš. It is also supported by senior representatives of the Czech government and public institutions, including the Ministry of Health, Ministry of Industry and Trade, and Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports, as well as the mayor of Prague and the rector of Charles University. Their support underlines the growing recognition of oral health as part of wider public health, disease prevention and healthy ageing strategies.

The choice of Prague as the host city also reflects developments in dentistry in the Czech Republic. According to the Czech Dental Chamber, reforms over the past decade have contributed to workforce renewal and improved access to care through broader participation by dentists in the public health insurance system. The country has also seen increasing adoption of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence-based tools, 3D printing and robotic systems, in both larger cities and practices outside the main urban centres.

“Dentistry is changing more rapidly now than at any time in the last 100 years. AI, robotics, changing disease patterns and the growth of large dental organisations are transforming the profession. Those who understand the change early will lead dentistry. Those who ignore it may soon find themselves left behind. Prague will be the place where the future of dentistry becomes visible,” said Dr Roman Šmucler, president of the Czech Dental Chamber.

Alongside the scientific programme and exhibition, FDIWDC26 will offer a cultural and social programme that will introduce delegates to some of Prague’s most distinctive historic settings and encourage engagement in a more relaxed atmosphere. Events will include a gala dinner in the historic Spanish Hall at Prague Castle and Prague Night, a more informal evening of Czech cuisine and conversation at the Municipal House. Curated tours exploring Prague and destinations beyond the capital will also allow participants from different parts of the world to meet in smaller groups. Together, these events will complement the scientific programme by providing opportunities for delegates to connect, exchange ideas and build professional relationships beyond the lecture halls.

“Dentistry does not evolve in isolation,” said FDI President Dr Nikolai Sharkov. “Progress depends on the ability of professionals to learn from each other across borders, and that is exactly what the FDI World Dental Congress makes possible.”

Registration for FDIWDC26 is open. Further details about the congress, programme and registration are available on the event website.