IDEM Singapore 2016 concludes on a successful note

This year's IDEM Singapore brought together 8,173 visitors and conference delegates to witness sharing by world class speakers and exciting innovations being showcased. The 3-day exhibition and conference, held from April 8-10 at the Suntec Singapore Convention and Exhibition Centre, saw a larger exhibition space of 18,000 square metres and visitors and conference delegates from 72 countries participating.

Comprising of both a trade exhibition and scientific conference, visitors and delegates were updated on cutting-edge dental technology and practical clinical products and techniques based on findings in emerging research.

512 exhibitors from 38 countries were present to showcase their latest innovations in clinical dentistry, digital technology and patient care products.

The IDEM Singapore 2016 trade show once again proved to be the preferred platform for exhibitors who wish to enter into the Asian markets, with one-third of exhibitors participating for the first time at the event. Numerous new and returning exhibitors were met with excitement and warm welcome from dental professionals and visitors alike.

This year's scientific conference was once again filled with enriching and informative sessions for dental practitioners and professionals. The theme this year was Striving for Clinical Excellence, with the programme focusing on technical, practical and molecular methods used to improve a patient's oral health. The extensive scientific conference that ran for three days featured 42 different conference sessions and 37 international speakers, including many from Australia.

Against the backdrop of the conference theme, visitors were presented with many thought-provoking discussions. One of the highlights of the event was the full-day symposium, Towards the Post-Amalgam Era moderated by Australia's Dr Hien Ngo. The symposium brought to light a highly topical issue facing the practice of dentistry and the delivery of dental care. Speakers shed light on the background and implications for the dental industry as a result of the Minamata Convention. The symposium rounded off with an insightful and lively panel discussion session.

"Dental practitioners must be fully aware that dentistry is not merely about matters pertaining to the teeth, but it goes beyond. For instance, it has an impact on the environment, where biomaterials are concerned. As a result, dental schools need to educate and train dental professionals and students on the proper usage and disposal of dental materials," said Professor Martin Tyas, World Dental Federation (FDI) speaker at the symposium and Professor at the University of Melbourne.

As countries in the Asia-Pacific develop economically, consumers will demand better health and dental services. In return, this will boost the dental industry in the respective country and the region.

"With an ongoing progressive dental industry in Asia, it will further underscore IDEM Singapore as a strategic event for industry players," said Mr Michael Dreyer, Vice President, Asia-Pacific, Koelnmesse Pte Ltd.

"The IDEM Singapore 2016 show statistics proved once again that we are Asia-Pacific's most anticipated event on the dental calendar, providing all visitors the knowledge and insights in the industry. We will strive to continue to be the preferred platform for the dental industry to grow in this region."

Forging close partnerships with local and international organisations can also help to accelerate the development of the dental industry. As the industry grows globally, sharing knowledge and insights across-boundaries will increase in importance for the progression of experts and professionals. "IDEM Singapore 2016 was a very successful event for the industry, as well for the Singapore Dental Association (SDA). We encourage professionalism and continuous learning through events such as IDEM Singapore. Through our partnership and efforts, we hope to ensure more participation from industry leaders in Asia and worldwide," said Dr Kuan Chee Keong, President of SDA.

While IDEM Singapore 2016 comes to a close, planning for the next special milestone, the 10th edition of IDEM Singapore has already begun. Committed to advancing the dental industry, close cooperation with more specialist associations such as the International Academy of Periodontology (IAP) are in the pipeline. "Establishing a Symposium on Periodontology as part of IDEM Singapore 2018 is an exciting new prospect for us. IDEM Singapore seems like the natural partner for IAP to collaborate with in the Asia-Pacific region, as they already organize such a professional conference and international exhibition. We hope to help raise the clinical credibility of IDEM Singapore by bringing in a speaker of the highest caliber in the field of periodontology," said Professor Ajay Kakar, President of IAP.

The 10th edition of IDEM Singapore 2018 will be held from 13-15 April 2018.