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Invited Speakers

The theme for the 2026 International Symposium is “Oral Health and General Health: Prevention & Progress”. Our host organization, Associazione Igienisti Dentali Italiani (AIDI), fare il possibile – pulled out all the stops – to ensure an excellent experience.

The scientific program has something for everyone, and clinicians, educators, researchers, and students will all find educational programs to enhance their knowledge and skills. With focused programs related to all stages of life, attendees will find engaging sessions on topics related to oral health during childhood, adolescence, adulthood, and old age.

Valuable networking opportunities abound with the lunch & coffee breaks and Welcome Reception. And the Gala Dinner promises to be an evening unlike any other at a beautiful setting with fantastic entertainment. But…c’è di piu – there’s more!

The Opening Ceremony is not to be missed, with the IFDH member countries proudly presenting their flags. This long-standing tradition symbolizes how we come together as colleagues to learn, advocate, and advance our profession. This year, we welcome our newest IFDH members, dental therapists, oral therapists, and oral health therapists. As primary oral healthcare providers, we embrace these professionals and foster collaboration to improve patient care. It’s wonderful to have them here!

A special thank you to our supporters, sponsors and exhibitors. Without you we wouldn’t be able to organize this exceptional event. You are the wind beneath our wings that enables us to soar!

Jill RethmanJill Rethman, RDH, BA, FADHA
President, International Federation of Dental Hygienists

ISDH_2026_HEADER_homepage
Adolescence
Andrea Butera
Unit of Dental Hygiene, Section of Dentistry, Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, Italy

Biography

Andrea Butera graduated in Dental Hygiene from the University of Genoa in 2009. He obtained a Master’s Degree in Technical Healthcare Professions in 2011 and an International PhD in Health Sciences from UCAM University of Murcia and the University of Pavia in 2021. In 2024, he achieved the National Scientific Qualification as Associate Professor. He is Director of Educational Activities for the Dental Hygiene Degree Program at the University of Pavia, where he also holds a research fellowship. He is a contract professor, author of numerous scientific publications, editorial board member of international journals, speaker at national and international conferences, and recipient of the Sunstar European Award of Distinction 2024 and the IFDH Innovation Award 2025.

Abstract

The management of oral tissues during adolescence is an evolving clinical challenge in which prevention and digital innovation play a central role. Oral microbiota analysis provides new opportunities to understand the biological mechanisms underlying the most common oral diseases and to personalize preventive strategies. This presentation focuses on the role of the dental hygienist in integrating clinical assessment, microbiological data collection, and digital tools supported by artificial intelligence. Through this approach, the dental hygienist contributes to early diagnosis, the development of tailored maintenance protocols, and long-term monitoring of oral tissue health in adolescent patients.

Childhood
Stefano Checchi

Teaching Assistant for the Dental Hygiene Degree Program at the University of Turin

Biography

I was born in Bologna, Italy, on the 27th November 1975. I achieved my first diploma degree as a dental technician in Bologna and then I dedicated my study to Medicine for two years, and then to Dental Hygiene. On March 2000 I achieved my Laurea degree in Dental Hygiene at the University of the Study of Bologna. I spent my professional life as a freelance clinician in several private clinics and as a communication and training & education consultant for many international companies. Passionate about teaching and lecturing, I had the chance to work as a tutor at the University of Bologna and I am currently a teacher at the University of the Study in Torino, Dental Hygiene course. I am still lecturing both at national level and abroad, covering topics of Dental Hygiene interest. During the last 10 years I had the privilege to represent my country as a Delegate in the European Dental Hygiene Federation and also covered the EDHF Secretary role for two terms. At national level I am a board member of AIDI, the Italian Dental Hygienist Association, and together with many colleagues we work for the development of the DH profession. Together with my wife, who is also a Dental Hygienist, we own a Dental Hygiene office in Torino, the city where we live in Italy. I live with my wife, my son and my daughter in Torino; we love traveling, meeting people and exchanging experiences.

Abstract

La presentazione esplorerà la cariologia clinica con particolare attenzione all’applicazione pratica delle attuali conoscenze sulla patologia cariosa. Tratterà la valutazione individuale del rischio di carie, la diagnosi precoce dei segni e dei sintomi mediante strumenti diagnostici avanzati e tecnologie di intelligenza artificiale, nonché lo sviluppo di piani di prevenzione e trattamento personalizzati. L’accento sarà posto sulle procedure preventive e terapeutiche, in particolare sulle strategie di intervento precoce. Le prove cliniche e le esperienze reali illustreranno come le conoscenze scientifiche si traducano nella pratica quotidiana integrati ad un approccio graduale e strumenti interattivi per migliorare la partecipazione e la comprensione.

Old Age
Marie-Laure Grandjean

Dental Hygienist, Clinic of General, Special Care and Geriatric Dentistry, Center of Dental Medicine, University of Zurich, Switzerland
Division of Gerodontology and Removable Prosthodontics, University of Geneva, Switzerland

Biography

A dental hygienist graduate from Geneva Higher School (2009), she currently practices at the University Dental Medicine Clinics of Geneva (2018) and Zurich (2019), specializing in oral health care for older adults and individuals with special needs.

Active in professional education, she developed local anesthesia training programs for dental hygienists (2017-2022). Holding a CAS in Health Management (2022) and pursuing a MAS in Public Health (University of Geneva, 2023-2026), her research focuses on preventive oral care strategies for institutionalized older adults.

Author of qualitative studies examining barriers to care and access to oral health services, she combines clinical expertise and public health research to develop evidence-based interventions for vulnerable populations.

Abstract

Preserving roots, sustaining life: clinical and preventive strategies in long-term care facilities Demographic aging has led to a growing population of Institutionalized older adults who retain an increasing number of natural teeth, thereby amplifying the burden of oral disease and the complexity of care. Caries prevention, particularly through fluoridation strategies aimed at preventing or arresting early carious lesions, represents a cornerstone of oral health maintenance in this vulnerable population. In long-term care settings, effective fluoridation contributes not only to disease prevention but also to the preservation of function and quality of life. This presentation will review evidence-based fluoridation strategies for the remineralisation of initial carious lesions and critically examine the Swiss context of access to preventive dental care in institutions, drawing on findings from qualitative research with Swiss healthcare professionals.
Plenary session
Filippo Graziani

Professore Ordinario dell’Università degli Studi di Pisa

Biography

A dental hygienist graduate from Geneva Higher School (2009), she currently practices at the University Dental Medicine Clinics of Geneva (2018) and Zurich (2019), specializing in oral health care for older adults and individuals with special needs.

Active in professional education, she developed local anesthesia training programs for dental hygienists (2017-2022). Holding a CAS in Health Management (2022) and pursuing a MAS in Public Health (University of Geneva, 2023-2026), her research focuses on preventive oral care strategies for institutionalized older adults.

Author of qualitative studies examining barriers to care and access to oral health services, she combines clinical expertise and public health research to develop evidence-based interventions for vulnerable populations.

Abstract

Preserving roots, sustaining life: clinical and preventive strategies in long-term care facilities Demographic aging has led to a growing population of Institutionalized older adults who retain an increasing number of natural teeth, thereby amplifying the burden of oral disease and the complexity of care. Caries prevention, particularly through fluoridation strategies aimed at preventing or arresting early carious lesions, represents a cornerstone of oral health maintenance in this vulnerable population. In long-term care settings, effective fluoridation contributes not only to disease prevention but also to the preservation of function and quality of life. This presentation will review evidence-based fluoridation strategies for the remineralisation of initial carious lesions and critically examine the Swiss context of access to preventive dental care in institutions, drawing on findings from qualitative research with Swiss healthcare professionals.
Adulthood
Janet Kinney

RDH, MS, MS
Dr. Dorothy G Hard Legacy Professor Emerita and Clinical Professor Emerita of Dentistry, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, University of Michigan, USA

Biography

Janet Kinney, RDH, MS, MS is the Dr. Dorothy G Hard Legacy Professor Emerita and Clinical Professor Emerita of Dentistry, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry. She earned a Bachelor and a Master of Science degree in Dental Hygiene and an addition Master of Clinical Research Design and Statistical Analysis degree from the University of Michigan. She has been involved in clinical research studies focusing on salivary diagnostics for periodontitis disease progression, treatment options for peri-implantitis, and natural supplemental approaches to reducing halitosis. Her academic career includes teaching undergraduate and graduate students in didactic and clinical courses.

Abstract

Saliva, commonly referred to as spit or slobber, has emerged as a biofluid which reflects oral and systemic health and disease. Its complex composition of molecules has shown promise in providing valuable information about various conditions such as autoimmune diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, HIV, oral cancer, caries, and periodontal diseases. Compared to other diagnostic measures (blood and tissue), saliva’s non-invasive collection method and ease of accessibility make it an appealing alternative to early disease detection. This session will present an overview of the diagnostic ability of saliva in the detection and surveillance of various oral and health conditions.

Montemezzo Giulia
Adulthood
Giulia Montemezzo

R.D.H. M.Sc. Ph.D.
Direttore delle attività didattiche professionalizzanti – Corso di Studio in Igiene Dentale – Dipartimento di Medicina Traslazionale e per la Romagna – Università degli Studi di Ferrara

Biography

Giulia Montemezzo, RDH, M.Sc. PhD, was born and raised in Ferrara. She holds a degree in Literature and a PhD in Literary Theory and Analysis, In addition to her humanities background, she earned a degree in Dental Hygiene, a Master’s degree in Coordination Functions for Healthcare Professions from the University of Ferrara and a M.Sc. in Technical Healthcare Professions Sciences from La Sapienza University of Rome. Since 2011, she has been Director of Professional Teaching Activities for the Dental Hygiene Degree Course at the University of Ferrara and she is also a lecturer and clinical tutor for the Postgraduate Program for Proficiency in Periodontology at the University of Ferrara, under the guidance of Professor Leonardo Trombelli. From 2021 she has been working full-time at the Operating Unit of Dentistry within the Ferrara Local Health Authority. Her primary focus is on the prevention of dental and periodontal diseases at both primary and secondary community levels. She’s also been the contact person for the Piano Libero 20 of the Regional Prevention Plan (2020-25) for the Primary Care Department of the Ferrara Local Health Authority. She is a trainer in Short Motivational Interviewing for the Ferrara Local Health Authority Dr Montemezzo is also affiliated with the Research Center for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-implant Diseases at the University of Ferrara, is a member of the National Commission for Dental Hygiene Degree Courses and is affiliated with the Italian Society of Periodontology and Implantology.

Abstract

La presentazione esplorerà la cariologia clinica con particolare attenzione all’applicazione pratica delle attuali conoscenze sulla patologia cariosa. Tratterà la valutazione individuale del rischio di carie, la diagnosi precoce dei segni e dei sintomi mediante strumenti diagnostici avanzati e tecnologie di intelligenza artificiale, nonché lo sviluppo di piani di prevenzione e trattamento personalizzati. L’accento sarà posto sulle procedure preventive e terapeutiche, in particolare sulle strategie di intervento precoce. Le prove cliniche e le esperienze reali illustreranno come le conoscenze scientifiche si traducano nella pratica quotidiana integrati ad un approccio graduale e strumenti interattivi per migliorare la partecipazione e la comprensione.

Old Age
Marisa Roncati

BS, RDH, DDS
Professore a contratto Corso di Laurea in Odontoiatria e Protesi Dentaria, Università di Ferrara, Italia

Biography

After teaching italian literature in high school, Marisa Roncati began her career in dentistry as a dental hygienist graduating from the Forsyth School, USA. She later earned her dental degree in Italy. With over 35 years of clinical and academic experience, Marisa has achieved outstanding results treating periodontal and peri-implant diseases. Her work is documented in numerous evidence-based publications and textbooks translated into multiple languages. She is internationally recognized as a leading expert in laser-assisted procedures. Recently, she co-authored a book for the general public highlighting how oral care affects overall health and well-being, in an engaging and accessible style.

Abstract

REFRAMING ORAL CARE TO ENHANCE SYSTEMIC HEALTH
Healthy aging is linked to good oral health, which is vital for overall well-being. Innovative home-care devices to support autonomy and assisted care will be introduced. Through impactful clinical cases, successful strategies for managing periodontitis and peri-implantitis in elderly patients will be demonstrated. A multidisciplinary, person-centred approach involving dental professionals, physicians, students, and caregivers will be discussed. The use of music and videos as a universal language to convey scientific concepts impacting overall health will be showcased. A book and a website targeting both the general population and clinicians, offering CEUs, will be presented, integrating science and education with music-based protocols.

Scilla Sparabombe
Adulthood
Scilla Sparabombe

RDH, MSc
Director of Professional Education in the Degree Course of Dental Hygiene
Teacher of Medical Technical Sciences in the Degree Course of Dental Hygiene
Faculty of Medicine, Università Politecnica delle Marche, Italy

Biography

After teaching italian literature in high school, Marisa Roncati began her career in dentistry as a dental hygienist graduating from the Forsyth School, USA. She later earned her dental degree in Italy. With over 35 years of clinical and academic experience, Marisa has achieved outstanding results treating periodontal and peri-implant diseases. Her work is documented in numerous evidence-based publications and textbooks translated into multiple languages. She is internationally recognized as a leading expert in laser-assisted procedures. Recently, she co-authored a book for the general public highlighting how oral care affects overall health and well-being, in an engaging and accessible style.

Abstract

In recent years, alongside traditional combustible cigarettes, we have seen the spread of new nicotine delivery devices, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Among young adults, there has been an increase in the use of multiple products, including a combination of them. These devices are often considered by consumers as “safer” alternatives but the evidence supporting this belief is still limited and not always unequivocal. The consequences of smoking also affect the oral cavity; it is considered one of the main risk factors for periodontitis. Preliminary data are presented from a study investigating, on a population of young adults, the effects of these different devices on the periodontium through a precursor of the inflammatory state: the level of salivary oxidative stress. In addition to smoking, the redox balance within the oral cavity can be easily altered by other external factors including alcohol consumption and nutritional style, which the investigation extends to verify any correlations.
Plenary session
Jeanie Suvan

University of Glasgow Dental School, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, College of Medical, Veterinary and Life Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow UK

uk flag

Biography

After teaching italian literature in high school, Marisa Roncati began her career in dentistry as a dental hygienist graduating from the Forsyth School, USA. She later earned her dental degree in Italy. With over 35 years of clinical and academic experience, Marisa has achieved outstanding results treating periodontal and peri-implant diseases. Her work is documented in numerous evidence-based publications and textbooks translated into multiple languages. She is internationally recognized as a leading expert in laser-assisted procedures. Recently, she co-authored a book for the general public highlighting how oral care affects overall health and well-being, in an engaging and accessible style.

Abstract

In recent years, alongside traditional combustible cigarettes, we have seen the spread of new nicotine delivery devices, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Among young adults, there has been an increase in the use of multiple products, including a combination of them. These devices are often considered by consumers as “safer” alternatives but the evidence supporting this belief is still limited and not always unequivocal. The consequences of smoking also affect the oral cavity; it is considered one of the main risk factors for periodontitis. Preliminary data are presented from a study investigating, on a population of young adults, the effects of these different devices on the periodontium through a precursor of the inflammatory state: the level of salivary oxidative stress. In addition to smoking, the redox balance within the oral cavity can be easily altered by other external factors including alcohol consumption and nutritional style, which the investigation extends to verify any correlations.
Leonardo Trombelli
Adulthood
Leonardo Trombelli

RDH, MSc
Dental Clinic, University Hospital, AUSL Ferrara
Research Centre for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-implant Diseases, University of Ferrara

Biography

Full Professor and Chair, Periodontology, School of Dentistry, University of Ferrara. Director, Research Center for the Study of Periodontal and Peri-implant Diseases, University of Ferrara (1999-present). Assistant Professor at Advanced Education Program in Periodontics and Implant Surgery, Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, California (USA) (1995-2004). Director, Dental Clinic, University Hospital, Ferrara (2013-present). Director Primary Care Department, Azienda Sanitaria di Ferrara (2021-22). Dean, Dental Hygienist School, University of Ferrara (2002-2010). Dean, Dental School, University of Ferrara (2013-16). President, Medical School, University of Ferrara (2014-2016). Director, Post Graduate Program for Proficiency in Periodontology (2022-present). Coordinator of the Italian University Faculty in Periodontology for the Collegio Docenti di Odontostomatologia (2019-present). Member of the National Committee for the Scientific Abilitation of the Ministry of Education and Research (2017-2020). President of the Italian Society of Osseointegration (2007-2009). President elect, Italian Society of Periodontology and Implantology (2024-25). Editorial Board member for the Journal of Clinical Periodontology (2000-present), Journal of Dental Research (2018-present). He is co-author of 198 papers (PubMed database) with a H-index=49 (Scopus), 2 textbooks and 10 textbook chapters. He was actively involved in the formulation of the 2018 Classification of Periodontal and Peri-implant Diseases and Conditions as well as the recent Clinical Practice Guidelines for the treatment of Stage I-III periodontitis (2020), stage IV periodontitis (2022) and Peri-implant Diseases (2023). His private practice is limited to Periodontology and Oral Surgery.

Abstract

The presentation will explore individual susceptibility to plaque-induced gingivitis and its relationship with the onset and progression of periodontitis. It will analyze the biological determinants and clinical parameters involved in early inflammatory changes of the gingival tissues. Special attention will be given to how individual variability in immune response, microbial composition, and behavioral factors influence the transition from reversible inflammation to irreversible attachment loss. The lecture will summarize recent clinical and experimental evidence and discuss the implications for risk-based prevention, professional maintenance, and patient education in adult populations.
Adolescence
Eveline Van der Sluijs

Department of Periodontology, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), a joint venture between the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Amsterdam, and the Faculty of Dentistry, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Biography

After teaching italian literature in high school, Marisa Roncati began her career in dentistry as a dental hygienist graduating from the Forsyth School, USA. She later earned her dental degree in Italy. With over 35 years of clinical and academic experience, Marisa has achieved outstanding results treating periodontal and peri-implant diseases. Her work is documented in numerous evidence-based publications and textbooks translated into multiple languages. She is internationally recognized as a leading expert in laser-assisted procedures. Recently, she co-authored a book for the general public highlighting how oral care affects overall health and well-being, in an engaging and accessible style.

Abstract

In recent years, alongside traditional combustible cigarettes, we have seen the spread of new nicotine delivery devices, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Among young adults, there has been an increase in the use of multiple products, including a combination of them. These devices are often considered by consumers as “safer” alternatives but the evidence supporting this belief is still limited and not always unequivocal. The consequences of smoking also affect the oral cavity; it is considered one of the main risk factors for periodontitis. Preliminary data are presented from a study investigating, on a population of young adults, the effects of these different devices on the periodontium through a precursor of the inflammatory state: the level of salivary oxidative stress. In addition to smoking, the redox balance within the oral cavity can be easily altered by other external factors including alcohol consumption and nutritional style, which the investigation extends to verify any correlations.
Childhood
Mohamed Aljneibi Wedad Juma

RDH, BSDH, MLHPE ,CPXP ,CCC
Head of the Dental Hygiene Department and Graduate Medical Education (GME) Health Systems Science (HSS) Core Faculty, Dubai Health
Board Member, Emirates Dental Hygienist Club

Biography

Wedad Aljneibi is a Dental Hygienist with over 10 years of clinical and educational experience in preventive, periodontal, pediatric, and special needs oral healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene and a Master’s degree in Leadership in Health Professions Education. Actively engaged in Health Systems Science, Wedad has designed and delivered advanced educational initiatives for dental hygienists, including hands-on training in local anesthesia and periodontal management. She has led and contributed to awareness campaigns aimed at improving access and quality of care for pediatric and special needs patient groups. She is a Certified Patient Experience professional and a Certified Cognitive Coach, with a strong interest in patient-centered care, special needs oral healthcare and quality improvement.

Abstract

Small Patients, Big Care: Prevention and Care in Paediatrics and Special Care
This session highlights the importance of delivering individualized, prevention-focused oral healthcare for paediatric patients and individuals with special needs. Emphasis is placed on a comprehensive assessment that considers age, cognitive development, medical conditions, and emotional and social factors. The presentation explores adapting oral hygiene tools, tailoring communication strategies, and actively involving families as partners in care. A proactive, multidisciplinary approach is presented, integrating education, behavioural support, personalised prevention, and continuous monitoring. By shifting the focus beyond curative treatment to holistic and preventive care, dental professionals can promote cooperation, autonomy, and long-term oral health outcomes for small patients with diverse needs.