Joining Forces to achieve better outcomes
The congress theme was ‘Joining Forces’ – a concept close to the heart of AAPD with our recent Australian congress theme ‘Reconnext’. The IAPD committee encouraged attendees to foster new relationships with professionals at the event. They also talked to the importance of collaboration when back home – not just with our paediatric colleagues, but with other medical and dental disciplines, government and organisations. Because it’s through these collaborations that we improve outcomes for our patients.
The program at a glance
The scientific program demonstrated the breadth of paediatric dentists’ clinical involvement, as well as innovative multidisciplinary methods for behaviour change and public health strategies.
The pre-conference symposium on ‘interdisciplinary planning and management of severe dental defects’ was certainly a highlight. The symposium offered seminars ranging from the molecular classification of Amelogenesis Imperfecta through to its clinical management from both Swedish and UK perspectives.
The extensive poster gallery of research and case reports delivered a stimulating insight into novel methods from around the world. Other highlights of the scientific program included Professor Susanne Krämer from Chile who provided an exceptional insight into her management of children with epidermolysis bullosa.
Belgian paediatric dentist A/Prof Bieke kreps shared her experience growing up with a facial difference as well as living with an invisible difference later in life. It was an unforgettable and inspiring presentation of her research and advocacy work.
A truly social affair
A vivacious Dutch team coordinated the event and their welcoming energy set the vibe for the entire Congress. A highlight of the social program included the Michelin star Gala dinner at Chateau Neercanne, which boasts impressive panoramic views of Belgium and the Netherlands from the terraced castle. Paediatric dentists from all over the world danced the night away to disco classics in the Marl cave network under the castle.
The congress was an excellent opportunity to connect with colleagues worldwide – both in the scientific forums and on the dancefloor. As a first-time attender it was particularly memorable and cemented the IAPD Congress as an essential event in the conference calendar.
See you in Cape Town, South Africa in October 2025!
