DUBLIN, Ireland: Dental rehabilitation using implants has seen significant advancements in the last decade. Trends for the future of the specialty will be discussed when the Convention Centre Dublin opens its doors next week for the 22nd Annual Scientific Meeting of the European Association for Osseointegration.

According to predictions by the organiser, more than 2,000 dental professionals are expected for the three-day event, which is being held in the Irish capital for the second time. In addition to current issues in the field, like peri-implantitis and the challenges linked to the treatment of an increasing elderly population, the congress will reflect on new developments and methods, such as computer-assisted implant rehabilitation and tissue regeneration. Moreover, a number of sessions will focus on risk factors, treatment planning and the possibilities of virtual learning techniques.

Up to 70 experts from Europe and around the globe will be speaking at the meeting. The latest research will be presented in the form of short oral sessions and poster presentations, which will take place between the scientific sessions.

New products for treatment outcomes that are more predictable and an improved workflow in dental practices and laboratories will be presented at the industry exhibition, which is being supported by 87 sponsors this year. Among others, MIS and Henry Schein have announced that they will be showcasing their latest tools for a complete digital workflow. Furthermore, Danish dental solutions provider 3Shape will have its recently launched TRIOS intra-oral scanning system on display. New and improved implant systems will be presented by Implant Direct and a number of other companies.

In 1995, the EAO held one of its earliest meetings in Dublin. Since then, the prestigious event has taken place at 17 locations in 15 countries throughout Europe. Last year’s anniversary meeting in Copenhagen saw more than 2,500 professionals participating, the number expected for the 2013 edition in Ireland. In addition to the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland and the Oral Surgery Society of Ireland, the meeting has received support from the Irish Society of Periodontology and the Prosthodontic Society of Ireland.

“In 1995, implant treatment was provided by a fairly small number of specialists and access for patients was limited,” commented Dr Brian O’Connell, congress chairman and Professor of Restorative Dentistry at Trinity College Dublin’s dental school and hospital. “Now implant treatment is available in every part of the country and is provided by a wide range of practitioners. As a result, awareness has really grown among the population.”

More information about the meeting, scientific sessions and industry exhibition is available on the EAO congress website. The association has also recently launched an application for mobile devices and tablet computers that is aimed at giving visitors quick access to congress-related information. Daily news updates, interviews and product reviews from the show floor are available on the Dental Tribune website.