LECTURES

LECTURES FOR DOCTORS

Prof. Ambrosina Michelotti

September 17, 2026 (09:30–17:00) – Pre-congress course
Temporomandibular Disorders
Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) represent a complex group of musculoskeletal and neuromuscular conditions affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), masticatory muscles, and associated structures. Their multifactorial etiology includes biomechanical, psychological, genetic, hormonal, and behavioral components, making accurate diagnosis and effective management a clinical challenge.
This lecture focuses on the identification and evaluation of key TMD risk factors, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive diagnostic protocol that integrates clinical examination with psychosocial screening and, when appropriate, advanced imaging and functional assessments.
Evidence-based management strategies will be discussed, including conservative therapies, behavioral interventions, pharmacologic options, and the role of interdisciplinary collaboration. Special attention will be given to individualized treatment planning aimed at reducing pain, restoring function, and preventing chronicity.
Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) present a unique clinical challenge when encountered in patients undergoing or seeking orthodontic treatment. The relationship between orthodontic interventions and TMD is complex and often misunderstood, requiring a careful, individualized approach to diagnosis and management. By enhancing clinicians’ ability to recognize and address the diverse contributors to TMD, this session aims to improve outcomes through targeted, patient-centered care.
This lecture will also address best practices for evaluating and managing TMD in the orthodontic population, with an emphasis on risk assessment, functional analysis, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Through a clinical, evidence-informed framework, this session provides orthodontists and dental professionals with practical tools to ensure safe, effective care for patients presenting with TMD symptoms, while minimizing the risk of exacerbation during orthodontic treatment.

Prof. Alberto Caprioglio

September 18, 2026 (10:00–11:00)
When, Why & How Early Orthodontic Treatments Influence the Pediatric OSA Management
Orthodontics, as well as medicine, is undergoing a group of interrelated revolutions that are dramatically changing how treatment will be proposed and carried out in the future.
Recently, there has been a surge of interest in craniofacial growth modification treatment as an intervention for pediatric sleep-disordered breathing (SDB). Pediatric SDB, a broad-spectrum breathing disorder that occurs during sleep in children, encompasses primary snoring, upper airway resistance syndrome, and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). In children, snoring is the most commonly recognized SDB, which may progress to OSA if left undiagnosed and untreated.
Although OSA can be definitively diagnosed only by a physician, the orthodontist may be called on to screen for OSA, contribute to the identification of underlying dentofacial components, and assist the physician in managing the disease. As such, the orthodontist is not able to manage this care alone, and a cooperative shared effort between the orthodontist and other medical professionals is preferred to optimize care of patients with OSA. Understand how to take advantage of the benefits from these new scenarios in OSAS treatment while performing a classical early treatment will be offered in the lecture.
Colleagues will be updated with a specific review of the literature in the first part while in the central one, they will be connected with specific problems in orthodontics. Effects of maxillary expansion on OSAS, premolars extractions, maxillary protraction, molar distalization will be discussed in the final part.
The complex mechanism behind OSAS is still unclear but we need to accomplish it.

Prof. Jiří Šedý, DMD MD PhD MBA

September 18, 2026 (11:30–12:15)
The Temporomandibular Joint in the Context of Orthodontic Practice
Temporomandibular joint disorders are highly prevalent in the general population, with their incidence continuing to increase each year. Accurate diagnosis and appropriate management of these conditions are essential for orthodontists, as failure to recognize them may lead to serious complications during or following orthodontic treatment.
The majority of temporomandibular joint disorders can be managed conservatively; however, these approaches are often underestimated or incorrectly applied. This lecture highlights key principles of patient care in the management of temporomandibular joint disorders within orthodontic practice.

Marek Vlna, DMD MSc

September 18, 2026 (12:15–13:00)
When the Jaw Locks… What the Orthodontist Should (and Shouldn’t) Do
Every now and then, a situation arises in the dental office that takes both the patient and the clinician by surprise – the jaw suddenly locks, or its movement becomes significantly restricted. Such moments bring questions, concerns, and expectations, and it is precisely then that the direction of further care is determined.
Orthodontics has long been associated with the prevention or treatment of jaw-related problems. However, current scientific evidence shows that the relationship between orthodontics and temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is far more complex – and often quite different from what was once believed. For the orthodontist, it is therefore essential not only to understand the mechanics of the bite, but also to recognize when the problem is benign and when it requires the attention of a specialist.
An orthodontist does not have to be an expert in the temporomandibular joint, yet can play a key role in shaping how the patient perceives their condition. The right response at the right moment often matters more than complex theories.

Dr. n.med Agnieszka Predko-Engel; Assoc. Prof. Krzysztof Dowgierd, MD PhD

September 18, 2026 (14:00–15:30)
The Temporomandibular Joint in Surgery and Orthodontics – A Core Element of Multidisciplinary Treatment and Cooperation
The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) plays a central functional role in the craniofacial complex, and its proper assessment and integration into treatment planning are essential in the orthodontic-surgical management of patients. Contemporary treatment strategies for craniofacial deformities demand interdisciplinary collaboration, with special attention to the aesthetic, functional, and biomechanical aspects of the TMJ.
This presentation will review the latest recommendations for TMJ diagnostics—particularly magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), and clinical-functional evaluation—and how these tools inform individualized orthognathic treatment planning. In addition to the preoperative phase, emphasis will be placed on surgical decision-making in specific TMJ-related conditions.
A focused overview will be provided on the indications, techniques, and consequences of high condylectomy, especially in the context of facial asymmetry correction and joint remodeling in growth-related deformities. The management of pain, limitation in mobility, disc pathology, and structural deformities will be addressed, highlighting the role of arthroscopy, its diagnostic accuracy, and therapeutic utility. In cases of ankylosis or end-stage degenerative disease, total joint replacement (TJR) using alloplastic prostheses will be presented, including a concise overview of our center’s clinical protocol—from planning to early rehabilitation.
Particular attention will be paid to virtual surgical planning, focusing not only on occlusion but on achieving stable condylar positioning within the glenoid fossa. The influence of TMJ status and surgical interventions on the long-term outcome, patient quality of life, and overall functional well-being will be discussed, with clinical cases illustrating how TMJ-related decisions affect the entire course of orthodontic-surgical treatment.
By presenting a spectrum of TMJ pathologies—from disc displacements to ankylosis—and corresponding surgical and nonsurgical treatment strategies, the talk will emphasize the importance of a personalized and dynamic treatment model. For orthodontists, a clear understanding of TMJ pathology and management significantly enhances communication, co-planning, and ultimately the success of the interdisciplinary treatment pathway.

Jan Streblov, MD

September 19, 2026 (09:00–09:30)
The History of Mariánské Lázně with Special Emphasis on Medicine
In this lecture, the author will introduce his hometown, its humble beginnings, and the stages of its turbulent development into a fashionable spa resort of worldwide significance. Like a red thread running through the lecture will be the lives of artists, politicians, and monarchs – above all their illnesses and the renowned physicians who treated them.
As a local patriot seeking to offer a broad range of perspectives, the author will not avoid addressing the wartime and post-war events, the expulsion/displacement of the German population, and the so-called Sudeten melting pot formed by people from many parts of Europe. All of this will be enriched with personal and family memories and connections, imbued with the inevitable touch of melancholy that cannot be escaped in this region.

Dr. Dorottya Frank

September 19, 2026 (09:30–10:15)
Active Early: Interceptive Aligner Treatment in Growing Patients
Early orthodontic intervention aims to guide craniofacial growth, eliminate functional disturbances, and reduce the complexity of later treatment. While clear aligners have traditionally been associated mainly with adult orthodontics, their role in interceptive treatment during the mixed dentition phase is expanding rapidly.
This lecture presents the concept of Active Early, an approach that integrates clear aligner therapy into early orthodontic management. Through carefully selected clinical cases, the lecture will demonstrate how aligners can be effectively applied to guide the developing dentition and support functional correction during growth.
Special attention will be given to treatment planning principles that improve predictability in growing patients, including proper case selection, timing of intervention, and the integration of specific aligner features. The lecture will also emphasize the importance of clearly defined treatment goals and thoughtful treatment planning.

Martin Kotas, MD, PhD

September 19, 2026 (10:15–11:00)
Orthognathic Surgery in the Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea
This presentation addresses the possibilities of diagnosing and treating obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) using orthognathic surgical methods within an interdisciplinary approach involving other relevant specialties, particularly sleep medicine. Ideally, the selected treatment should be based on anatomical and pathophysiological findings, target the site or sites of obstruction, offer a reasonable probability of success while maintaining a low level of risk, and be acceptable to the patient in terms of both the expected outcome and the surgical burden and duration of treatment.
CPAP remains the mainstay of OSA treatment. A wide range of surgical procedures and their modifications have been developed for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea. In patients with dentofacial anomalies, however, the surgical treatment of choice should be orthognathic rather than otolaryngology surgery. Clinical studies and meta-analyses have shown that maxillomandibular advancement (MMA), in combination with genioplasty and intranasal procedures (septoplasty, inferior turbinate reduction, and nasal floor correction), is a relatively safe and highly effective surgical treatment for OSA in patients with multilevel upper airway obstruction. In line with the evidence-based literature, MMA may be regarded as the most effective surgical alternative for the treatment of moderate to severe OSA, with outcomes comparable to the therapeutic efficacy of CPAP.

Dr. Claudia Pinter

September 19, 2026 (11:30–12:30)
Harmonizing Power: The Beneslider-Aligner Synchronization as a Breaktrhough in Class II
Malocclusion 
Class II malocclusion remains one of the most prevalent orthodontic challenges, particularly in adult patients who increasingly demand discreet treatment options that do not interfere with their lifestyle. While aligner therapy offers the comfort and invisibility these patients seek, achieving reliable Class II correction with aligners alone can be unpredictable, prolonged, and heavily dependent on patient compliance.
This lecture presents the combination of the Beneslider appliance with aligner therapy as a transformative approach to Class II correction. By integrating the biomechanical efficiency and predictability of the Beneslider with the esthetics and patient-centered advantages of aligners, this synchronized treatment strategy offers a compelling solution for adult patients.
Participants will learn how to effectively combine the Beneslider with aligner therapy to optimize treatment outcomes, reduce total treatment time, and enhance patient satisfaction. This breakthrough method represents a powerful harmonization of mechanics and esthetics—reshaping the way we approach Class II malocclusion in the modern orthodontic practice.

Prof. Alberto Caprioglio

September 19, 2026 (12:30–13:30)
Bracket-less orthodontics as support to aligner therapy: tips and tricks
Bracket-less orthodontics is a relatively modern approach to orthodontic treatment that does not involve the traditional metal brackets and wires. Due to its bio-mechanical advantages, it can support all the known advantages of clear aligners that offer a more discreet and sometimes more comfortable alternative to traditional braces. On the other hand, bracket-less orthodontics can avoid the classical disadvantages of traditional lingual braces that may cause discomfort initially due to contact with the tongue. The benefits of bracket-less orthodontics like aesthetic appeal, comfort, convenience will be highlighted with options suited for a range of cases.
All these aspects will be clarified during the lecture with the support af several clinical cases.
However, the most suitable method depends on the complexity of the patient’s dental needs and the treatment goals.

Dr. Maximilian Küffer

September 19, 2026 (14:30–15:30)
MARME & Class III Therapy: Impact Factors on Success, Function, and Health
This lecture provides an in-depth analysis of skeletal anchorage techniques for the treatment of transverse maxillary deficiencies and Class III malocclusions in both growing and adult patients, with a particular focus on Mini-Implant Assisted Rapid Maxillary Expansion (MARME) and maxillary protraction protocols.
Core topics include the biomechanical principles and clinical implementation of MARME, alongside a discussion of skeletal and dentoalveolar effects, potential side effects, and digital planning strategies. Special attention is given to anchorage design and optimal timing as key determinants of treatment efficacy and predictability.
The lecture also addresses functional and health-related outcomes, supporting evidence-based decision-making in the orthopedic management of Class III malocclusions.

Lea Šafránková, MSc

September 19, 2026 (16:00–16:45) – Speech therapy
Myofunctional Therapy in Interdisciplinary Care: A Synergistic Approach to Functional Stability 
Orofacial Myofunctional Disorders (OMDs) do not represent an isolated dysfunction of the orofacial region but significantly influence craniofacial skeletal development, respiratory function, and overall postural balance. Their impact extends beyond dentoalveolar and skeletal structures and involves compensatory mechanisms of the neuromuscular system.
This lecture focuses on bridging myofunctional therapy, aimed at the re-education of muscular patterns and functional habits, with orthodontic intervention represented by elastodontic appliances such as AMCOP®. Their combined use provides a synergistic effect by simultaneously addressing both functional and morphostructural components of the orofacial complex. This synergy contributes to the harmonization of craniofacial growth, optimization of the upper airway, and integration of global postural mechanisms.
Special emphasis is placed on physiological oral functions, including proper tongue resting posture, mature swallowing patterns, and nasal breathing, as essential factors for long-term orthodontic stability and relapse prevention.
The lecture highlights the crucial role of the myofunctional therapist and underscores the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration among orthodontics, speech therapy, otorhinolaryngology, physiotherapy, and related fields. Myofunctional therapy combined with elastodontic treatment is presented as a modern integrative approach that extends beyond conventional orthodontic care and aims at achieving long-term functional balance and comprehensive patient stability.

Hana Bláhová, MSc

September 19, 2026 (16:45–17:30) – Physiotherapy
Posture, Occlusion, and the Temporomandibular Joint: Why Collaboration with a Physiotherapist Matters
The temporomandibular joint represents the peak of the postural system, and its function is closely interconnected not only with the musculoskeletal system, but also with respiration, digestion, the nervous system, and psychological processes.
This lecture offers an overview of the mutual relationships between postural alignment and occlusion – how posture influences occlusion and, conversely, how occlusal changes can affect overall posture. Special attention will be paid to temporomandibular joint dysfunctions in both children and adults, their clinical manifestations, and their potential impact on general health.
Participants will gain a basic understanding of selected physiotherapeutic approaches used in the management of temporomandibular joint dysfunctions. Clinical case reports will demonstrate practical physiotherapy strategies and provide clear guidance on when referral to physiotherapy is indicated.

Petra Zágorová, MD

September 18, 2026 (16:00–16:15)
Ability of CBCT Methods Assessing the Transverse Dimensions of the Maxilla and Mandible to Predict Crossbite
Introduction and Objective: Maxillary transverse deficiency (MTD) is characterized by a transverse narrowing of the maxilla relative to the mandible, palatal constriction, and the presence of crossbite. The extent of MTD can be assessed using CBCT-based methods that compare transverse skeletal parameters of the maxilla and mandible at different anatomical levels that may be influenced by dentoalveolar compensatory mechanisms. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of the MTD parameter derived from the Yonsei, Boston, and Penn analyses to predict crossbite in individuals with skeletal Class I according to the ANB angle.
Methods: The study included patients aged 12 years and older examined at the Department of Orthodontics, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University and University Hospital Pilsen. The study cohort comprised 148 patients. A group of patients with crossbite and a control group without MTD and with average angulation of all first permanent molars were selected.
Results: Overall accuracy in predicting crossbite, together with specificity and sensitivity, was evaluated for each method. The results were assessed at a 5% level of statistical significance. Among the methods investigated, the Yonsei analysis demonstrated the highest specificity (93%) and sensitivity (67%), as well as the highest overall accuracy (79%). The Penn and Boston analyses showed poorer performance, although both demonstrated relatively high specificity and lower sensitivity. For each method, a threshold value associated with the consistent presence of crossbite was determined.
Conclusion: When assessing MTD, it is essential to select an appropriate method and to understand its characteristics and limitations. Owing to its high accuracy and specificity, the Yonsei analysis minimizes false-positive findings. However, like the other methods evaluated, it has lower sensitivity and therefore a higher risk of false-negative findings. Treatment planning should be individualized, based on a combination of clinical and measured parameters, rather than relying solely on predetermined cut-off or reference values.

Anežka Mihalčinová, MD

September 18, 2026 (16:15–16:30)
Long-term Evaluation of Dental Arch Relationships in Patients with Complete Unilateral Cleft Lip and Palate
Objective: The treatment of patients with complete unilateral cleft lip
and palate (UCLP) is long-term and multidisciplinary. The aim of this study was to evaluate the development of dental arch relationships in patients with UCLP at three different ages following three different treatment protocols and to assess their association with maxillary morphology.
Patients and Methods: This retrospective analysis included 59 patients with UCLP (35 males and 24 females) born between 1998 and 2010. Patients were divided into three groups according to the timing of primary surgical procedures: Group A – delayed palatoplasty (lip repair: 3–9 months; palate repair: 30–44 months); Group B – standard treatment protocol of the Prague Cleft Centre (lip repair: 3–9 months; palate repair: 8–23 months); and Group C – neonatal cheiloplasty (lip repair: 0–28 days; palate repair: 8–23 months). A total of 177 plaster models obtained at the ages of 5, 10, and 15 years were evaluated using the Atack and GOSLON Yardstick indices by three experienced orthodontists. Morphological parameters of the maxillary dental arch were measured on digital scans. Assessment reliability was evaluated using intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC), and statistical analysis was performed at a significance level of α = 0.05.
Results: Assessment reliability was excellent (intra-rater ICC: 0.75–0.97; inter-rater ICC: 0.89–0.97). Mean index scores for the entire cohort were 3.33 for Atack at age 5, 3.55 for GOSLON at age 10, and 3.38 for GOSLON at age 15. Dental arch relationships deteriorated between the ages of 5 and 10 years, followed by a slight improvement at age 15, possibly reflecting the effect of orthodontic treatment.
Group C demonstrated the highest index scores at all three time points (3.76, 3.90, and 3.82) and significantly poorer outcomes than Groups A and B combined at ages 5 and 10 years (p = 0.005 and p = 0.016, respectively). Group C also exhibited the shortest maxillary dental arch length.
Conclusion: The timing of primary surgical procedures is associated with the subsequent development of dental arch relationships. Patients who underwent neonatal cheiloplasty demonstrated the least favourable index scores and the shortest maxillary dental arch length. These findings provide a longitudinal assessment of treatment outcomes in patients with UCLP and may contribute to further optimization of treatment protocols for this patient population.

David Vařejčko, MD

September 18, 2026 (16:30–16:45)
Evaluation of Changes in Mucociliary Clearance Following Transverse Maxillary Expansion
Objective: To evaluate the relationship between the transverse
dimension of the maxillary dental arch, nasal mucosal function, and subjectively perceived nasal patency in patients undergoing rapid maxillary expansion (RME). A secondary objective was to assess the effect of a cleft involving the palate on mucociliary clearance.
Patients and Methods: Twenty-six patients aged 6–16 years (mean age 10.08 years), including 15 boys and 11 girls, were enrolled in this prospective observational study. The cohort comprised 14 patients without a cleft or with an isolated cleft lip and 12 patients with a cleft involving the palate. Before treatment (T0) and on the day of completion of active rapid maxillary expansion (T1), the transverse dimensions of the maxillary and mandibular dental arches were measured, and mucociliary transport time (MCTT) was assessed using the saccharin test. Subjective nasal symptoms were evaluated before treatment using the validated NOSE-cz questionnaire. RME was performed using a fixed banded expander with a Hyrax-type screw.
Results: The mean baseline MCTT was approximately 7.4 minutes. Following completion of active expansion, mean MCTT decreased by 57.1 seconds in the entire cohort; however, the difference did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.059). The mean decrease was 65 seconds in patients without a cleft or with an isolated cleft lip and 48 seconds in patients with a cleft involving the palate. No statistically significant associations were found between baseline MCTT and the transverse dimension of the maxillary dental arch, dental discrepancy, or NOSE-cz score. No association was demonstrated between the magnitude of expansion and the change in MCTT. Baseline MCTT did not differ significantly between the two groups (450 vs. 439 seconds; p = 0.456).
Conclusion: Mucociliary clearance is a complex, multifactorial functional parameter that cannot be directly inferred from dentoalveolar transverse dimensions or the extent of expansion. Improvement in nasal mucosal function may represent a secondary benefit of rapid maxillary expansion. The response in patients with a cleft involving the palate may differ.

LECTURES FOR ORTHODONTIC ASSISTANTS

Prof. Jiří Šedý, DMD MD PhD MBA

September 17, 2026 (08:30–10:00)
The Temporomandibular Joint in Orthodontic Assistant Practice
This lecture summarizes the essential knowledge and practical skills required by orthodontic assistants when caring for orthodontic patients with temporomandibular joint disorders. It focuses on the basic principles of temporomandibular joint anatomy and function, provides an overview of the main categories of temporomandibular disorders, and highlights selected risk factors that should be carefully monitored in everyday clinical practice.

Zuzana Marinčák Vranková, DMD PhD

September 17, 2026 (10:30–11:15)
Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
The lecture will focus on obstructive sleep apnoea in children (POSA) in the context of orthodontic practice. POSA is a multifactorial disease in which the upper airway collapses repeatedly during sleep and apnoea pauses occur, often in connection with craniofacial anomalies, hypertrophy of lymphatic tissue, obesity or neuromuscular disorders. The lecture will clearly explain the basic manifestations of POSA, typical risk factors visible in the mouth and face and their relationship to orthodontic anomalies. Emphasis will be placed on the practical role of the orthodontist and assistant team in the early detection of patients at risk, education of parents and cooperation with other specialists (paediatricians, otorhinolaryngologists, sleep laboratory). The presentation will also include options for orthodontic therapy in children with POSA and craniofacial dysmorphisms and simple “red flags” that can help to better identify children at risk of this disease.

Petra Valíková, DMD BSc

September 17, 2026 (11:15–12:00)
Myofunctional therapy and its use in orthodontic practice
Myofunctional therapy is an important part of orthodontic care, especially for growing children. It focuses on training and strengthening the muscles of the orofacial area, which contributes to optimal growth and development of the jaws. This therapy not only supports the proper functions of swallowing, breathing and tongue retention, but also reduces the risk of orthodontic anomalies. Orthodontic assistants can play an essential role in assessing patients’ needs and explaining the exercises that are necessary for successful therapy.

PaedDr. Jitka Vnoučková, MSc

September 17, 2026 (13:30–15:00)
Medical record keeping in a private practice
The presentation focuses on the complex requirements for maintaining documentation and fulfilling legislative obligations in outpatient healthcare facilities. It summarizes key laws and decrees regulating the field of medical devices, waste management, and occupational health and safety. It presents in detail the types of inspections by the KHS and SÚKL, their course, required documents, and the most frequently inspected areas.
A significant part is devoted to proper sterilization, archiving sterilization documentation, testing the functionality of sterilization equipment, and requirements for storing medicines and medical devices. The presentation highlights the need for a controlled documentation system (SOP/MOP), which ensures continuity of procedures, legal certainty, and readiness for audit or inspection processes. The conclusion provides practical advice on how to prepare for inspections and what documents to keep for safe and legally compliant operation of the practice.

Wanda Urbanová, MD PhD

September 17, 2026 (15:30–16:00)
Thumb sucking – an innocent habit or a big problem?
Introduction: Thumb sucking or pacifier sucking is one of the most common bad habits in children. In infancy, it is completely normal, is related to the sucking reflex and provides the child with a sense of comfort. In most cases, it disappears spontaneously around the second or third year of life. However, if thumb sucking persists into preschool or even school age, the harmless habit becomes a problem. If a child sucks intensely even when their permanent teeth are erupting, the result may be an orthodontic defect – a vertical open bite with protrusion of the upper incisors.
Content of the message: The lecture will focus on the aetiology, prevention and options for eliminating the habit. Practical aids such as bitter nail polishes, covering splints or special orthodontic appliances will also be shown.
Conclusion: Sucking is a seemingly innocent habit, which, however, represents a significant risk factor disrupting orofacial development and requires coordinated and sensitively guided therapeutic intervention.

Linda Kučerová, DMD; Juraj Marton, DMD

September 17, 2026 (16:00–16:30)
Orthodontic treatment for patients with periodontal disease – tips, tricks and teamwork
Some orthodontic defects, such as crowding, traumatic, crossbite, open bite or protrusion, can contribute to the development or worsening of periodontal disease in adulthood. Their timely treatment is therefore also preventive in nature.
But what should we do if an orthodontic patient has already developed periodontitis? Can such a patient be treated orthodontically safely?
Yes – if we know the biological limits and principles of teamwork.
The lecture will focus on the key principles of orthodontic therapy for patients with affected periodontal disease, the correct timing of individual steps and the most common pitfalls we encounter in practice. It will include an overview of the principles of periodontal stabilization, safe ranges of tooth movement and retention options after treatment.
We will offer recommendations from the perspective of both an orthodontist and a periodontist, and an overview of situations in which a dental assistant can actively contribute to the smooth course of therapy – from monitoring warning signs to effective communication within the team.
The aim is to provide an overview of practical principles for safer and more predictable treatment.

Alena Tihanová, HND

September 17, 2026 (16:30–17:00)
Prevention of Enamel Demineralization in Orthodontic Treatment: The Role of the Dental Hygienist
Enamel demineralization is a frequent complication of orthodontic treatment and may adversely affect both aesthetic and biological outcomes. This lecture addresses preventive and prophylactic strategies aimed at minimizing the risk of demineralization throughout all phases of orthodontic treatment, including the pre-treatment phase, active therapy, and the post-treatment period. Particular emphasis is placed on effective prevention through systematic patient preparation prior to appliance placement, focusing on the acquisition of proper, effective, and atraumatic oral hygiene and interdental cleaning techniques. Clinical case reports from dental hygiene practice will be used to demonstrate early identification of patients at increased risk, preventive protocols applied during orthodontic treatment, and conservative supportive approaches following appliance removal. The lecture underscores the importance of interdisciplinary cooperation and its role in maintaining the long-term stability of orthodontic treatment outcomes.

Assoc. Prof. Pavlína Černochová, PhD

September 18, 2026 (09:30–10:00)
Side Effects and Complications of Orthodontic Treatment
During orthodontic treatment, various side effects and complications may occur. These include enamel demineralization and dental caries, periodontal diseases, external apical root resorption, abnormal tooth wear, and enamel damage during removal of fixed orthodontic appliances. Other possible complications include patient injuries, as well as aspiration or ingestion of orthodontic appliance components.
The aim of this presentation is to describe these conditions, explain their causes, outline preventive measures, and discuss their management.

Jana Kopřivová, MD

September 18, 2026 (10:00–10:30)
Orthodontics in the Context of Comprehensive Health Care
The lecture explores the role of orthodontics and dentofacial orthopaedics’ within a comprehensive, interdisciplinary approach to health care. It focuses on the relationship between function and form in the orofacial region and on the interconnection between oral health and overall systemic health.
Special attention is given to opportunities for collaboration between orthodontists and other health care professionals, particularly speech and language therapists, physiotherapists, paediatricians, otorhinolaryngologists, allergists, cardiologists, psychologists, and movement specialists, in the fields of prevention, diagnostics, and subsequent therapy. The benefits of interdisciplinary cooperation are discussed with regard to supporting overall patient health as well as achieving long-term stability of orthodontic treatment outcomes.

Martin Linka, DMD; Monika Hendrichová, HND

September 18, 2026 (11:00–12:30)
Dental Assistant Role in an Orthodontic Practice
The lecture is based on long-term interdisciplinary collaboration and extensive experience from clinical practice as well as professional courses for orthodontic assistants and dental hygienists. Its aim is to highlight the importance of teamwork for maintaining tissue health, ensuring safe treatment, and achieving patient satisfaction.
Orthodontic treatment significantly affects the health of both hard and soft tissues of the oral cavity, and its long-term success is inseparably linked to the quality of dental hygiene. The lecture focuses on the integration of orthodontics and dental hygiene as a fundamental prerequisite for safe, stable, and aesthetically successful treatment in both pediatric and adult patients.
Orthodontist Martin Linka will present a clinical approach based on consistent control of dental hygiene prior to the initiation of orthodontic therapy, throughout the active phase of treatment, and during the retention period. Attention will be paid to treatment planning with regard to long-term stability of results and to the use of modern orthodontic techniques in everyday clinical practice.
Dental hygienist Monika Hendrichová will focus on the practical aspects of caring for orthodontic patients, systematic patient education, and the establishment of long-term sustainable oral hygiene habits. She will present standardized care protocols, education on cleaning around fixed appliances, aligners, and retainers, as well as strategies for motivating both pediatric and adult patients.

Lea Šafránková, MSc

September 18, 2026 (13:30–14:15)
Stable Outcomes Begin with the Prevention of Myofunctional Disorders in Dental Practice
Dental hygienists and orthodontist assistants are in regular and long-term contact with patients and therefore have a unique opportunity to identify early signs of myofunctional disorders. Key warning signs (“red flags”) include oral breathing, a low resting tongue posture, perioral compensation during swallowing, and early malocclusion.
Early recognition of these deviations, combined with basic patient or parent education, significantly contributes to reducing the need for complex therapeutic interventions and to preventing relapse after orthodontic treatment. Proper resting tongue posture against the palate is essential not only for a mature swallowing pattern, but also for correct palatal development, dental arch stability, and overall postural balance. Hypotonia of the anterior and especially the posterior part of the tongue alters breathing and swallowing patterns and leads to overload of the perioral musculature.
The lecture introduces a simple preventive screening that can be easily integrated into the daily work of dental hygienists, including the so-called “nasal minute,” assessment of resting tongue posture, silent swallowing, and evaluation of bilateral chewing. Practical guidance is also provided on how to clearly explain to patients “why” and “what to do now,” and how to motivate them to adopt simple daily habits that support proper orofacial function.
Finally, options for interdisciplinary collaboration and effective team communication based on the diagnostic findings are outlined. Meaningful prevention based on early detection, education, and interdisciplinary cooperation leads to more stable orthodontic and functional outcomes.

Miroslava Nagyová, MD

September 18, 2026 (14:15–15:00)
The Role of the Nurse and Dental Hygienist in Treatment with Myofunctional Orthodontic Appliances
Myofunctional therapy in orthodontics has been repeatedly revisited in connection with new research on sleep apnoea, the temporomandibular joint, head and neck pain, and posture, with its development traced back to the 19th century. Although the indication and adjustment of prefabricated myofunctional appliances remain entirely within the competence of the orthodontic specialist, the orthodontic nurse and dental hygienist play an important role in the process of myofunctional treatment.
Active participation of orthodontic nurses, assistants, and dental hygienists in regular documentation of patients’ posture and orofacial area, preparation of instruments for adjusting prefabricated appliances from various manufacturers, as well as patient and parent instruction, contributes to workflow standardization, improves practice management efficiency, and shortens overall treatment time.

Jiří Hálek, DMD; Eva Hálková, DMD

September 18, 2026 (15:30–16:00)
Use of Modern Technologies in Conservative Therapy of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea in Adult Patients
The lecture provides a concise yet comprehensive introduction to obstructive sleep apnoea in adult patients, with a focus on conservative treatment options. At the same time, it familiarizes the audience with the basic principles of 3D printing and its applications in modern orthodontic practice.
The presentation introduces the digital workflow for the design and fabrication of a mandibular advancement device (MAD) produced using 3D printing technology, including its clinical indications and limitations. This 3D-printed appliance is compared with a conventionally fabricated resin MAD in terms of the manufacturing process, patient comfort, and clinical applicability.
In conclusion, a clinical case report from everyday practice is presented to illustrate the practical benefits of digital technologies in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea in adult patients.

Martin Tomeček, MD

September 18, 2026 (16:00–17:00)
Photography in Orthodontic Practice
The lecture will focus on a practical protocol for photographic documentation of orthodontic patients, including intraoral and portrait photo protocols. Emphasis will be placed on practical implementation, namely the definition of a standardized set of photographs, hands-on execution, and mirror photography techniques. From a technical perspective, we will discuss the required equipment and camera settings, recommended accessories, and compare the use of mirrorless and DSLR cameras with mobile phones. The final part will address post-processing and cataloguing of photographs.