From 15–17 May, the FDI Regional Congress – Dental Meeting of the Americas, co-hosted with the Colegio de Cirujanos Dentistas de Costa Rica, welcomed over 1300 participants from 26 countries to the National Convention Center in San José, Costa Rica. With a strong scientific programme featuring 51 lectures and 16 workshops delivered by 52 speakers, including 24 international experts, the event proved to be an outstanding continuing education opportunity for the dental community across the region.

Final-year dental students from Costa Rica Dental School joined peers and professionals in engaging with the latest clinical insights and innovations. The event also drew more than 50 government representatives, reflecting its growing influence beyond the dental sector.

The Congress hosted two key institutional gatherings: the annual assembly of the Latin America Regional Organization (LARO) and the meeting of the Federación Odontológica Latinoamericana (FOLA). Representatives from nine countries participated in the FOLA meeting, with Costa Rica currently holding the presidency of the organization. Both meetings focused on strengthening professional collaboration and advancing oral health policies across the continent.

A regional symposium supported by the Latin American Oral Health Association also marked a milestone, as over 50 public health officials reviewed a draft Political Declaration aimed at advancing oral health in Latin America and the Caribbean. FDI President, Dr Greg Chadwick, delivered a prominent presentation, emphasizing FDI's leadership in global efforts to reduce sugar consumption as a means to lower the burden of oral diseases. The Political Declaration was officially released during the Congress’ Opening Ceremony. It is now open for consultation and expected to be ratified later this year in Brazil, during the IADR Brazil Chapter Meeting.

The success of this Congress highlights the growing strength and integration of the dental community in the Americas, and reinforces the strategic importance of FDI’s presence and leadership in the region.