60 years of implantology: focus on ceramic implants

Since the placement of the first dental implant by Per-Ingvar Brånemark nearly sixty years ago, implantology has evolved from a niche scientific discipline into an integral part of modern dental practice. Today, one of the most discussed areas is the use of ceramic implants, attracting attention due to their biocompatibility, aesthetic properties, and potential to reduce the risk of inflammatory complications. This article examines the recent European Congress on Ceramic Implantology, organized by the European Society for Ceramic Implantology (ESCI) from September 25 to 27, 2025, in Horgen, which allowed specialists and researchers to discuss the current state and future prospects of this field.

The congress as a platform for knowledge exchange

The three-day event brought together dentists, implantologists, and scientists from across Europe and other countries, providing a unique platform for sharing experience and research results. The program included hands-on workshops, lectures, and roundtable discussions covering materials, biological aspects, and clinical applications of ceramic implants. The organizers emphasized an interdisciplinary approach integrating materials science, tissue biology, and everyday clinical practice.

Hands-on workshops: theory and practice in action

The congress opened with practice-oriented workshops where participants had the opportunity to work with various implant systems and surgical techniques under the guidance of experienced clinicians. These sessions established a direct link between theoretical knowledge and its application in clinical practice, which is an important element in training modern specialists.

Lectures and research: materials, biology, and clinical practice

The lecture program featured 28 speakers who presented a wide range of topics, from materials science to biological characteristics and clinical practice. Data were presented on the mechanical stability of zirconium dioxide, modern methods of implant surface treatment, tissue response to ceramic device placement, soft tissue management, and clinical case reviews. Some reports showcased long-term follow-up results for ceramic implants, while others highlighted existing challenges: manufacturing complexities, biological responses of the body, and the impact of microbial factors.

Plenary presentations and historical context

Plenary lectures drew particular attention. Professor Jérôme Chevalier provided an overview of the current state of ceramic materials science, while Professor Tomas Albrektsson shared a historical perspective on the development of implantology since the placement of the first implant nearly sixty years ago. Issues of corrosion, immunology, osteoimmunology, and digital workflows in prosthetic dentistry were also discussed.

Discussions and roundtables: analysis of uncertainties

Throughout the congress, active discussions were held on the comparative advantages of ceramic and titanium implants, as well as how individual patient characteristics may influence treatment method selection. Roundtables provided an opportunity to critically evaluate existing uncertainties, such as cases where ceramic implants are preferable, and ways to integrate new scientific data into clinical practice.

Social program and interdisciplinary connections

In addition to the scientific program, participants had opportunities for informal networking and experience exchange. The gala dinner, themed “60 Years of Implantology,” served as a symbolic conclusion to the congress, emphasizing the significance of both historical achievements and contemporary trends.

Conclusions: relevance and prospects of ceramic implantology

The ESCI congress demonstrated that ceramic implantology has ceased to be a niche field and has become a subject of growing scientific and clinical interest. The presented research highlighted both the progress achieved and the open questions that continue to shape modern implantology. In particular, issues of material biocompatibility, long-term implant stability, and the impact of various factors on treatment success remain important, making this field highly relevant for further research and clinical practice.

Thus, modern ceramic implantology represents a dynamic combination of science, technology, and practice. The congress showed that integrating new technologies, carefully studying biological mechanisms, and thoroughly analyzing clinical experience not only enhance treatment efficacy but also help establish standards that will define the future of dental implantology. It also provided a basis for further discussion of uncertainties affecting the choice of materials and treatment strategies.

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