TAIWAN: The 45th Asia Pacific Dental Congress (APDC) is set to take place in Taipei, Taiwan, from May 2nd to 5th, 2024. Organized by the Asia Pacific Dental Federation/Asia Pacific Regional Organisation (APDF/APRO), the congress serves a multifaceted mission, aiming to enrol all National Dental Associations in the Asia Pacific region as members, recommend policies for oral health promotion, develop resources for dental education, and conduct activities to enhance the quality of dentistry in the region.

Historical Background of APDF/APRO

Established in 1955 in Tokyo, Japan, the Asia Dental Congress, precursor to the Asia Pacific Dental Federation, laid the foundation for a regional dental collaboration. Over the years, it officially affiliated with the World Dental Federation (FDI) and evolved into the Asia Pacific Dental Federation/Asia Pacific Regional Organisation (APDF/APRO). The double name reflects its commitment to representing the vast Asia Pacific region and serving as the official regional representative of FDI.

Growth and Success

Despite challenges in finding hosts for congresses, the APDF/APRO gained momentum, especially after the resounding success of the 10th Congress in Singapore in 1981. The event drew 1,780 delegates from 34 countries and marked a turning point, making the Asia Pacific Dental Congress a major annual event. Today, congresses are held yearly in member countries, with the next four host countries chosen in advance.

Standing Commissions Addressing Regional Demands

Adapting to the changing needs of the region, APDF/APRO established four standing commissions focusing on crucial aspects of dentistry. These commissions, namely Commission on Public Dental Health, Commission on Oral Diseases, Commission on Dental Education, and Commission on Defence Forces Dentistry, play a vital role in providing up-to-date information, organizing seminars during congresses, and offering valuable insights into dental health, education, and dentistry from a regional perspective.

APDC 2024 in Taipei

The upcoming APDC in Taipei aims to continue the tradition of excellence. With a dedicated email address (2024apdcintaiwan@gmail.com) and contact number (+886-2-2311-6001), the organizers are poised to deliver an enriching experience for dental professionals. The event will take place at 3F, No.36, Hengyang Rd., Zhongzheng Dist., Taipei City 100, Taiwan.

Dental professionals and enthusiasts across the Asia Pacific region can anticipate a comprehensive program, fostering collaboration, education, and the exchange of cutting-edge insights in the field of dentistry.