The IFEA World Endodontic Congress (WEC) 2024 was hosted in Glasgow by the British Endodontic Society (BES). It drew in crowds from 70 countries around the globe, 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 for the first time. The exhibit leaves a legacy for the near one-third of a million annual visitors to the venue to enjoy for years to come.
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 the 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 including Prof. Paul Lambrechts, Prof. Yoshi Terauchi, Prof. Mitsuhiro Tsukiboshi, Dr Frank Setzer, Dr Asma Khan, and Dr Ghassan Yared joined us from around the world to share their expertise and offer insights into their topics of interest, drawing in crowds eager to hear their thoughts.
Further to this, 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 nice, I particularly enjoyed the ground-breaking session presented by Prof. 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. I even picked up some samples to take with me and try out!”
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 spanned 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 of this aspect of the IFEA WEC, and the Congress as a whole:
“The Congress so far has been very good; I have loved it. 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’s 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 at any moment. Dr Uzan Sacha shared his experience of the IFEA WEC:
“The speakers have been great! They are very intelligent people who have covered good topics. 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 Prof. 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. Become a member today!
For more information about the BES, or to join, please visit the website www.britishendodonticsociety.org.uk or call 07762945847
