World class
Reflecting on the IFEA World Endodontic Congress in Glasgow
The IFEA World Endodontic Congress (WEC) 2024 was hosted in Glasgow by the British Endodontic Society (BES). It attracted delegates from 70 countries around the world, all eager to update their endodontic knowledge and engage with their peers, esteemed speakers and brand representatives. The WEC kicked-off with a welcome reception at the Glasgow Science Centre, where the interactive education exhibit, ‘At the root of it’, was unveiled for attendees to explore. The exhibit leaves a legacy for the near one-third of a million annual visitors to the venue to learn from for years to come. It will teach them about the anatomy of teeth and the fundamental role of oral biofilms in oral disease and the treatment of endodontic disease.
Professor William McLean, President of the British Endodontic Society, said: “The new exhibit will allow visitors to explore the science behind root canal disease and its impact on oral and systemic health. As a part of the interactive experience, visitors will also delve into how dental professionals support oral health maintenance, or a return to health if disease occurs. The exhibit will look at fundamental biology, innovations in materials and clinical practice, and how scientists, dental care professionals and dentists are constantly innovating to enhance the delivery of care and patient outcomes.”
The following morning began with the opening ceremony, featuring a performance from the Red Hot Chilli Pipers, which had everyone on their feet, with toe tapping for some, all the way through to a full highland fling for others; this absolutely set the tone for the rest of the congress.
Educational opportunities
Invited speakers filled the auditoriums with audiences engaged in wide-ranging and relevant topics – with speakers across all areas of the congress using clinical cases, research, and their own experiences to illustrate their subject areas.
Speakers included Professors Paul Lambrechts (Discover the anatomic, radiologic and histological complexity of external cervical resorption), Yoshi Terauchi (Minimally invasive and predictable removal of broken files) and Mitsuhiro Tsukiboshi (Treatment planning for traumatised teeth) and Doctors Frank Setzer, Asma Khan (The use of artificial intelligence in endodontics) and Ghassan Yared (Canal preparation utilising only one reciprocating instrument in the context of the different steps and phases of a root canal treatment).
In addition, the dedicated Early Career Symposium enabled those early in their careers to learn amongst their peers in a supportive environment. As part of this dedicated track, speakers discussed their own experiences of their early careers, and the journeys which led them to the vibrant careers they have now. Likewise, the Endodontic Teachers Group meeting offered opportunities for endodontic educators to explore the latest innovations in teaching, including haptics and augmented reality.
Dr Joanna Batt shared her experience of the educational opportunities at IFEA WEC, and the BES events that she has previously enjoyed: “There is a really good variety of exhibitors in the exhibition hall, and the lectures have been really well presented, with good topics and well-timed sessions. As a member of the BES, I would say that the main benefit is the educational events, such as this, the Early Career Group meetings, and the Regional Meetings.”
Inspiration at the exhibition
The exhibition hall drew in delegates who enjoyed discussing the latest technologies and products with a wide range of manufacturers. This was a great way for attendees to find out about the current trends in endodontic instruments and discover leading products from the people who know them best.
Dr Sairidon Futos shared his experience of the IFEA WEC, and the exhibition: “I have been providing endodontic treatment for the last 30 years and decided to become a member of the BES just over a year ago – this was a great idea! The lectures have been really good; I particularly enjoyed the ground-breaking session presented by Professor Yoshi Terauchi. Generally, there has been a very high level of lectures and speakers, and there have been lots of different brands and new products to explore and interact with in the exhibition hall.”
Making connections
Networking was a key feature of the IFEA WEC, with clinicians from around the world coming together to share ideas and experiences, as well as build friendships and professional relationships. The social programme included a welcome reception, a traditional Scottish ceilidh, and a Congress Dinner, encouraging attendees to have fun and socialise with friends and colleagues. Dr Wan-Chuen Liao shared her experience: “The congress has been very good. Everyone is so friendly, and it has been a great networking opportunity. I would recommend it highly as it has been a great way to attend lectures presented by prestigious speakers and update my knowledge.”
International conference
The IFEA WEC highlighted the benefits of an international conference. Speakers shared countless experiences of what it is like to practise endodontics in their respective countries, outlining the varied needs and capabilities felt by those around the world.
The IFEA WEC boasted variety, which meant that there was always something for everyone to enjoy. Delegate Dr Uzan Sacha shared his experience: “The speakers have been great! Overall, the congress has been very good.” Dr Peter Sidhom commented: “I have found the lectures to be very informative,
and the speakers to be very good. In particular, my favourite session so far was presented by Professor
Paul Lambrechts.”
The BES prides itself on being a society that is open to everyone with an interest in endodontics. As such, its educational events are tailored to a wide range of interests and experience levels. By becoming a member of the BES, clinicians enjoy reduced rates at educational events, making it even more accessible to expand their knowledge of endodontics, and enhance results for their patients.
For more information about the BES, or to join, please visit their website or call 07762 945847.