“BEYOND REGENERATION” is the motto of the next International Osteology Symposium in Vienna, 23-25 April 2026. It reflects the core focus on oral tissue regeneration while broadening the view to comprehensive patient care and long-term treatment success. Vienna promises a unique learning experience, with condensed, practice-oriented knowledge delivered by world-renowned experts alongside the rising stars of tomorrow.

We spoke with the symposium’s scientific chairs, Lisa Heitz-Mayfield and Anton Sculean, about what participants can expect from this high-level programme.

The motto of the 2026 symposium is “Beyond Regeneration.”
What does this mean for the programme?

Anton Sculean: The Osteology Foundation has always been dedicated to oral tissue regeneration, but this motto reaches further. Ultimately, it’s about one goal: better patient outcomes. The programme is designed to go beyond what you’d expect from a conventional congress and deliver on that promise.

Lisa Heitz Mayfield: Exactly. And we do this in several ways. First, we’re putting a strong emphasis on engagement. Participants won’t just sit through lectures; they’ll be able to vote during sessions, take part in roundtables, or get hands-on experience in workshops. Second, we’re ensuring clinical relevance. It’s not just about technical skills, but also about drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives and the insights from our leading partner associations. The programme will even include consensus guidelines that distill the latest evidence into practical treatment recommendations. And finally, we’re looking ahead by giving the next generation a real voice. Their workshops and sessions bring fresh topics and formats that keep us future-oriented.

Who should attend the symposium?

 Anton Sculean: The beauty of the programme is that it’s inclusive. Periodontists, surgeons, orthodontists, general dentists, and anyone with an interest in oral tissue regeneration will benefit.

Lisa Heitz Mayfield: That’s right. Whether you’re just starting your career or you’re an experienced clinician, there’s something here for you. We’ll cover cutting-edge techniques but also take time to discuss limitations and risks openly. And by combining interdisciplinary, patient-centred approaches with the latest digital tools, the content really speaks across all levels of practice.

How does the program balance scientific insights with clinical applications? Will there be opportunities to practice what you learn?

Lisa Heitz Mayfield: Absolutely. Participants will receive condensed, evidence-based knowledge and then immediately see how it translates into practice. A highlight this time is the re-live surgery sessions. Real cases from daily practice will show comprehensive treatment planning where the patient’s needs, not just the technical steps, take priority. Four sessions will take participants through the entire clinical process, reinforcing that patient-reported outcomes are the compass for every decision.

How is the next generation involved?

Lisa Heitz Mayfield: They’ve been active from the start. The Next Generation Team helped shape the programme, designing sessions and workshops specifically for early-career clinicians. And with Jeniffer Perussolo joining the Scientific Committee, their perspective is embedded in the programme’s development.

Anton Sculean: You’ll see them on stage as well, co-moderating with senior experts. That mix sparks lively discussions and ensures fresh perspectives are part of the dialogue.

Lisa Heitz Mayfield: And we’ve made sure it’s accessible too. With the Young Professional Fee, early-career participants can save up to 75% on registration—an unprecedented opportunity to engage with high-level education.

Is there a global perspective in the programme?

Lisa Heitz Mayfield: Very much so. More than 90 renowned speakers from all over the world will be joining us. We’ve also worked closely with global partner organisations like the EFP and AAP, who will present treatment guidelines and consensus papers. This means participants benefit from the latest science as well as internationally recognised recommendations across all indications in oral tissue regeneration.

Why attend a three-day congress when there are so many short online events?

Anton Sculean: One word: community. Online events are valuable, but nothing replaces the energy of being in the same room, sharing ideas, exchanging experiences, and building networks. Oral tissue regeneration is moving to the centre of dental practice worldwide, and this congress offers a front-row seat to that transformation.

Thank you for the interview!

Browse the symposium programme and register now!