Vietnam's Dental Sector Embraces Smart, Sustainable Technologies

Vietnam's dental sector is charting a course toward a future defined by "smart and sustainable dentistry," mirroring global advancements. This forward-looking approach was a central theme at the 19th International Dental Conference and Exhibition (VIDEC 2026), held from August 26-29 in Ho Chi Minh City.

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Smart and sustainable dentistry is the trend of development of the world dental industry and also the direction of Vietnam's maxillofacial and dental industry in the future.

The conference, a collaboration between the Vietnam Dental Association, major dental hospitals, and the World Dental Federation, brought together over 2,000 domestic and international experts. Discussions focused on integrating artificial intelligence (AI), digital dentistry, 3D technology, and robotics to achieve more precise diagnoses and effective treatments. Topics ranged from the digital era in dental implants to AI's role in predicting post-operative pain and early childhood caries management.

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Smart is applying artificial intelligence (AI), digital dentistry, 3D technology, robots and new technologies to diagnose more accurately and treat more effectively.

Dr. Le Trung Chanh, Vice President of the Vietnam Dental Association and Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Central Dental Hospital, highlighted that "smart" in dentistry means leveraging AI, digital tools, and 3D printing. However, he stressed that true progress lies in sustainability. This involves evidence-based practices, efficient resource management, waste reduction, optimized processes, environmental consciousness, and, crucially, investment in human capital. "Technology can change rapidly, but the foundation of a sustainable health sector remains capable people and ethical practitioners," Dr. Chanh stated.

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Smart is not enough. We need to develop sustainably - meaning based on scientific evidence, using resources effectively, reducing waste, optimizing processes, caring about the environment and especially investing in people. Because technology can change very quickly, but the foundation of a sustainable health sector is still capable people, ethical doctors.

Associate Professor Dr. Tran Cao Binh, President of the Asia-Pacific Dental Federation and President of the Vietnam Dental Association, noted VIDEC 2026's significance in shaping the future of dentistry. He emphasized the immense opportunity presented by rapid advancements in science, technology, AI, digital dentistry, and big data to enhance oral healthcare quality and improve community well-being. The Vietnamese Ministry of Health also recognized the theme's timeliness, aligning with modern medical trends and national health development strategies.

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The theme 'Smart and sustainable dentistry' is topical, in line with the trend of modern medicine and the development orientation of Vietnam's health sector.