The long-awaited FDI World Dental Congress (WDC) is back, this time in historical Istanbul. Located at the crossroads of Asia and Europe, Istanbul is a fitting destination that embodies the blend of cultures, expertise, and innovation that define the dental profession. FDI World Dental Federation and Turkish Dental Association welcome all attendees in this vibrant city to engage in cutting-edge continuing education, network with global experts, as well as experience the rich history and dynamic future of dentistry.

Over the four-day Congress, a comprehensive scientific programme offers countless continuing education opportunities, with sessions held concurrently in eight parallel halls. Topics range from multidisciplinary treatment approaches, clinical dilemmas and improved clinical decision-making to the impact of artificial intelligence on the future of dentistry.

A key focus on digital dentistry at the FDI World Dental Congress in Istanbul

The programme is divided into various streams—local, international, auxiliaries, FDI sessions, meet-the-expert sessions, and hands-on workshops. Attendees will benefit from insights shared by over 100 international speakers, providing a chance to learn from leading professionals worldwide.

Digital dentistry is a key focus this year. FDI interviewed some of the programme's speakers to discuss their lectures and excitement for the 2024 FDI WDC. Dr Faisal Alrashidi shared that his sessions will explore digital dentistry for dental implants and traditional treatment methods. "Digital Dentistry is the natural evolution for the dentistry field. However, there are limitations for everything, and we need to rely on basics sometimes, for example, if technology fails. These two topics that I will be presenting will be very interesting for the attendees, and they can expect a lot of clinical cases and evidence."

Dr Henriette Lerner will explore the digital workflow in full-arch rehabilitations, focusing on predictability and minimally invasive techniques supported by scientific data and clinical experience. "I am thrilled to be part of the FDI WDC. My session will cover the complete digital workflow for full-arch rehabilitations, detailing each step with scientific data and clinical insights to offer validated parameters for predictable results. Digital technologies in dentistry have become essential—they enhance our ability to plan treatments more predictably and minimally invasively."

Prof. Tian-Min Xu will address the use of 3D and 4D prescriptions for orthodontic brackets. "Digital techniques have long been utilized in orthodontics, such as auto-cephalometric analysis for diagnosis and aligner treatment. With advancements in artificial intelligence, we now have more diagnostic methods that simplify treatments compared to traditional practices. The FDI WDC is an excellent opportunity to enhance your knowledge in dentistry, and I’m excited to participate in this event in Istanbul."

Be sure to consult the scientific programme to plan your FDI WDC experience in Istanbul, selecting the sessions that best align with your interests.