The FDI World Dental Congress (WDC) 2026 will take place in Prague from 4–7 Sep 2026, bringing the global dental community together for four days of learning, inspiration, networking and a front-row view of the innovations reshaping oral healthcare. Co-hosted by the FDI World Dental Federation (FDI) and the Czech Dental Chamber, the congress will welcome leading experts from around the world to explore how dentistry is evolving in the age of artificial intelligence, digital innovation, robotics and patient-centred care.
“Oral healthcare is entering a period of significant change, where clinical decisions are increasingly shaped by new tools, new evidence and rising patient expectations. The FDI World Dental Congress offers an opportunity for dentists from around the world to reflect on these shifts and prepare for the next chapter of the profession,” stated Dr Antonio Estrada Valenzuela, chair of the FDI education committee.
Artificial intelligence will be one of the defining themes of the Prague congress, reflecting its rapidly expanding role in diagnostics and clinical decision support. As AI moves from research into everyday dental practice, the programme will examine how these tools can help clinicians detect caries, endodontic pathology and periodontal bone loss with greater consistency and speed. Dr Antonin Tichy will present a clinician-focused perspective on evaluating diagnostic AI systems, Prof Sergio Uribe will address the importance of high-quality clinical data in developing reliable tools, and Dr Peter Fritz will explore how AI can support clinical decision-making while preserving professional judgement and patient trust.
“Artificial intelligence has enormous potential in dentistry, but its impact will depend on how well clinicians understand and evaluate these systems. As AI becomes part of everyday practice, education and critical assessment will be key to ensuring these tools effectively support clinical decisions and improve patient care,” said Prof Falk Schwendicke, co-chair of the WDC 2026 scientific programme committee.
The congress will also spotlight the rise of advanced surgical technologies. In a dedicated session, Dr Kwok Fai James Chow will examine robotic-assisted implant placement, discussing its potential for sub-millimetre precision alongside practical considerations such as cost, training and long-term evidence. In this way, Prague 2026 will not simply describe the future of dentistry — it will demonstrate how that future is already becoming clinical reality.
At the same time, the scientific programme reflects another key priority in modern dentistry: preserving natural teeth wherever possible. Prof Katrin Bekes will address molar incisor hypomineralisation as a growing global challenge affecting children and presenting complex treatment decisions for clinicians. Other sessions will explore vital pulp therapy and contemporary endodontic techniques aimed at tooth preservation, with Prof Talal Al-Nahlawi, Dr Domenico Ricucci and Prof Alexis Gaudin discussing how advances in pulp biology and biomaterials are enabling more conservative approaches to care. In complex treatment planning scenarios, Prof Niklaus Lang, Prof Howard Gluckman and Dr Syngcuk Kim will offer perspectives on balancing tooth preservation with implant-supported rehabilitation.
The future of the profession will also be explored through the FDI Young Dentists Forum. In a dedicated session, leadership coach and former practice owner Dr Christina Radics will discuss work–life balance, resilience and burnout prevention, offering practical strategies to support sustainable careers in dentistry. This focus reflects a broader ambition of the congress: not only to present the latest scientific developments, but also to strengthen the profession and the people who will lead it in the years ahead.
Momentum behind WDC 2026 is already strong. The congress has attracted a record number of international abstracts, with 1,522 submissions from 74 countries, highlighting the breadth of global scientific engagement. Interest in Prague continues to grow, with participation already spanning more than 84 countries — a clear indication that Prague 2026 is set to be a standout event on the international dental calendar.
As dentistry undergoes one of the most profound transformations in its history, Prague will provide a unique platform to understand, discuss and help shape that change. From AI-driven diagnostics and robotic implantology to minimally invasive care, tooth preservation and professional wellbeing, WDC 2026 will present a compelling vision of the future of oral healthcare — set in the heart of Prague.
Dental professionals, researchers, industry leaders and stakeholders from around the world are invited to explore the scientific programme and join the global dental community in Prague in Sep 2026.