Volume 34 | October 2026

Artificial intelligence, digital workflows and evolving patient expectations are rapidly transforming orthodontic practice. Yet technology alone will not define the orthodontist of tomorrow. A new World Federation of Orthodontists (WFO) white paper argues that the profession’s future rests on a broader combination of clinical excellence, ethical judgement, communication and lifelong adaptability.

Published in the Journal of the World Federation of Orthodontists, the paper proposes ten competency domains to guide future orthodontic education and practice. Developed through contributions from experienced educators at academic institutions worldwide, the framework extends well beyond proficiency in appliance use.

The ten domains encompass ethics and professionalism; communication and patient-centred care; digital and AI fluency; research literacy; individualised and minimally invasive care; clinical excellence and biomechanics; biological foundations; interdisciplinary care; leadership and global responsibility; and adaptability, innovation and lifelong learning.

At the heart of the framework is a clear principle: technology should support, not replace, professional judgement. AI may assist with imaging, treatment planning, monitoring and risk assessment, but clinicians must still scrutinise its outputs, recognise potential bias and safeguard patient data. Ultimate responsibility remains with the orthodontist.

The white paper also calls for stronger communication skills, culturally responsive care and genuine shared decision-making. Patients should be treated as partners, with open discussions about benefits, risks, alternatives, costs and uncertainty. Meanwhile, sound biology and biomechanics must continue to guide treatment, no matter how sophisticated the digital platform may appear.

“The future of orthodontics will not be defined by technology alone, but by how wisely, ethically and compassionately we use it. This framework places the patient at the centre while preparing orthodontists to lead with scientific rigour, professional responsibility and a lifelong commitment to learning.”

Letizia Perillo

The authors emphasise that the domains are conceptual proposals rather than formally validated standards. Their purpose is to stimulate discussion and provide a foundation for future validation, local adaptation and periodic review.

For educators, clinicians and professional bodies, the message is timely: staying relevant in an AI-enabled world does not mean competing with technology. It means ensuring that innovation remains safe, equitable, biologically sound and deeply human.

📄 Read the full article: https://www.jwfo.org/article/S2212-4438(26)00044-5/fulltext

👥 Meet the authors:

The WFO Executive Committee (EC) and its communications committee wanted to introduce the incumbent EC members in a unique way. We figured the best way to do so is presenting us in a relatable way by sharing our favourite vacation spots and food.

Letizia Perillo, who is the President of the WFO, loves vacationing in the Aeolian Islands, Italy. She lives in nearby Naples, and loves the sea and the unique beauty of the Italian islands. Her favourite dish is fresh seafood, especially raw fish and seafood when they are fresh and simply prepared. Nikillesh Vaiid, our immediate Past-President, prefers spending time in Dubai, UAE and likes a meal of lobster noodles. Aron Dellinger, Secretary General of the WFO, loves places you can hike, ski, and explore physically. He likes fresh ingredients, in season, and proteins. Alisha Ademovic, the WFO International Specialist, loves exploring Nepal and Nice, France. She likes momos (dumplings) and sushi.

Our editor-in-chief of the Journal (JWFO), is Vinod Krishnan. He loves to spend time in Wayanad in Kerala, India; and loves having traditional Kerala food, in particular Sadya which includes 30 different dishes. Our International Orthodontic Congress (IOC, 2030) chair is Ambra Machelotti. She enjoys sailing in particular around the Greek Islands, surrounded by silence, the sea breeze, and the beauty of the ocean. She enjoys fresh fish, particularly when enjoyed by the sea.

The WFO EC has representatives from six regions of the globe. From Africa and the Middle East, Reem Alansari, loves nature, culture, and authenticity. She picks New York State as her favourite vacation spot and enjoys a churrascaria-style meal. Ramzi Hadad enjoys any country with a beautiful sandy beach and a lovely nature. He enjoys all kinds of seafood.

From Central and East Asia, Eric Liou enjoys vacationing in Kyoto, Japan and loves a good meal of sushi. Young Guk Park enjoys spending quiet, meaningful time visiting humanitarian and social innovation hubs around Seoul, Korea. He finds the rich diversity, authentic flavours, and deep cultural heritage found in Asian food a delight. Joseph Varghese would be found somewhere in nature or forest areas. He thrives on traditional Kerala food and snacks.

Our 3 European representatives have varied preferences. Vaska Vandevska-Radunovic loves the romance of sandy beaches and palm trees. She has no particular food preference but enjoys good food in general. Derya Germec Cakan, ensures she spends at least part of her vacation in Bodrum, on Türkiye’s beautiful Aegean coast. Similarly, she enjoys olive-oil dishes made with fresh herbs and vegetables from Türkiye’s Aegean region. Daniela Garbo likes to travel and explore new countries and see new places. She likes simple food, done well, especially fish, pizza and pasta.

From North America, Roberto Orsini-Hernandez, enjoys vacationing in Florence, Italy and a good plate of pasta, specifically bucatini o casarecce bolognesa. Jose Maria Robles Gil finds Cancun conquers all your senses and a ritual to renewal. He has a penchant for gourmet tacos, an elevated version of the traditional dish.

South America is also represented by 2 members. Rocio Casasola loves the beaches of Costa Rica enjoying its crystal-clear, turquoise, warm waters, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. She enjoys various cuisine but has a spot for pasta, meat, and especially seafood. Jorge Castillo’s favorite place to visit is Cusco, Peru with its unique combination of history, culture, beautiful landscapes. Ceviche, an iconic dish from Peru is his favourite meal.

From South East Asia and Oceania, Roberto Tan’s favourite vacation is in Munich, Germany, where he enjoys time with his daughter and her family. His favourite meal is Filipino food, especially fresh seafood. Bryce Lee, Vice President of the WFO, likes the beaches in the region. In particular Bali, Indonesia and Langkawi, Malaysia. He enjoys seafood done in the traditional Peranakan (Straits Chinese) methods washed down by a glass of wine.

The EC’s passions are diverse, as are their representations within the WFO. However, apart from seafood, we share another common passion, Orthodontics – and its betterment.

The opportunity to host the 12th International Orthodontic Congress (IOC) in 2035 is officially underway, and prospective hosts are encouraged to begin preparing their submissions now.

Submission Deadline: Completed bid documents must be submitted to the WFO Central Office by March 31, 2027. Interested organizations are encouraged to review the requirements and begin assembling materials well in advance of the deadline.

The committee looks forward to receiving competitive bids from organizations ready to help advance orthodontics on a global stage.

All required bid documents must be submitted to the WFO Central Office at wfo@wfo.org by March 31, 2027.

The Indonesian Association of Orthodontists (IAO) successfully held its 19th Annual Conference from 10–12 September 2026 at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Centre (BNDCC).

Against the beautiful backdrop of Bali, the Congress centred on the theme “Transforming Orthodontic Practice Using Modern Clinical Approach,” with an inspiring scientific programme featuring distinguished international and local speakers and addressing a wide range of contemporary topics in orthodontics.

A special highlight was the presence of WFO President Prof. Letizia Perillo, who conveyed greetings on behalf of the WFO during the Opening Ceremony. She presented plaques recognizing the outstanding leadership and vision of IAO President Prof. Endah Mardiati and Congress Chair Dr. Andi Herdiana in promoting the specialty of orthodontics.

Prof. Perillo also presented a WFO Regional Award of Merit to Dr. Himawan Halim for his significant contribution to the progress of orthodontics, and recognized Dr. Benny Soegiharto, WFO Regional Membership Chair for Southeast Asia and Oceania, for his unwavering commitment to strengthening the international orthodontic community.

The enthusiastic participation of the next generation was particularly inspiring, with residents from all six Indonesian postgraduate orthodontic programmes taking part in the Congress. Many residents participated in the scientific poster session, presenting challenging cases and research findings and receiving valuable feedback from international experts.

The Congress also featured a lively trade exhibition and a memorable Gala Dinner at Locca Sea House in Jimbaran, offering wonderful opportunities for friendship, networking, and celebration.

A memorable and highly successful meeting, bringing together more than 1,000 participants and celebrating science, education, young talent, and international collaboration.