"Interdisciplinary approaches in Stomatology": international conference in memory of professor Pavel Godoroja

Representatives of the dental community from the Republic of Moldova and Romania met at the international conference "Interdisciplinary Approaches in Stomatology", organized in memory of the distinguished Professor Pavel Godoroja.

The moderator of the event, Professor Valeriu Fala, Head of the Department of Therapeutic Stomatology, Corresponding Member of the ASM, stated that this conference had a symbolic significance, being dedicated to the late Professor Pavel Godoroja who, through his entire activity, inspired the younger generations to strive for professional excellence, dedication, patient respect and passion for knowledge. "This event is a gesture of gratitude and continuity, a bridge between generations and between specialties, we want this to be a living platform for scientific dialogue, where ideas, experiences, perspectives and aspirations, a spirit of collegiality, rigor and openness meet", specified Professor Fala. 

The conference was also attended by Health Minister Ala Nemerenco, who stressed the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration, at a time when medicine is moving beyond the limits of previously imposed systems. "Stomatology successfully combines prophylaxis, diagnosis and treatment. We want to raise a much healthier generation in the future and you can be the main pillars in raising a healthy child by developing oral health skills from early childhood," the official noted, urging participants to undertake academic mobility and international exchanges to enhance professional skills. 

Further, Rector of Nicolae Testemitanu University, Professor Emil Ceban, corresponding member of the ASM, spoke about the moral obligation and civic maturity proof between generations to commemorate the well-known personalities who worked in medical education area, established scientific schools, educated cohorts of specialists, and appreciated the effort of the departments to organize this event at the highest level. "During 46 years of activity at our university, Professor Pavel Godoroja has demonstrated remarkable human and professional qualities. His contribution to the development of the dental specialty and service in the country, to the founding of the Pediatric Stomatology chairs and Dental Prosthetics and Orthodontics Department, to the development of the Faculty of Stomatology, as dean, is invaluable. He was the one who laid the foundations for collaboration between the United States of America and the Republic of Moldova in the field of stomatology. Interdisciplinary issues in stomatology today are on the agenda. I believe that the Faculty of Stomatology is at a crucial stage of change, and we want everything that is applied in practical dentistry to be included in the teaching material for Stomatology students", the rector pointed out. 

The President of the Academy of Sciences of Moldova, Academician Ion Tighineanu, highlighted the trends in modern science focusing on multidisciplinary aspects, which also represent one of the objectives of the Decade of Sciences for Sustainable Development in the Romanian space adopted last year by scientists from both banks of the Prut. He urged the audience to consolidate scientific activity, because in the current socio-political context everyone expects solutions from researchers. 

Eva Gudumac noted the fruitful collaboration between the ASM, the Ministry of Health and Nicolae Testemitanu University, and the unconditional support from Romanian partners. At the same time, the academician encouraged young people to participate in the development of the scientific field, because science needs new forces for innovation and progress. 

Guests of honor at the conference were professors from Romania, Vasile Burlui and Norina Consuela Forna - honorary member of the ASM, who emphasized the need to strengthen scientific collaboration between the Republic of Moldova and Romania.

According to Associate Professor Oleg Solomon, President of the Association of Dentists of the Republic of Moldova, Professor Pavel Godoroja was a character builder and a source of inspiration. Today, he lives on through his disciples, through the values ​​he promoted. 

Andrei Mostovei, dean of the Faculty of Stomatology, and University Professor Diana Uncuta, head of Pavel Godoroja Department of Dental Propaedeutics, also spoke about the complex personality of scientist Pavel Godoroja and the development of stomatology in the Republic of Moldova. 

Among the topics addressed at the conference were digital technologies applied in pro-implant surgery, current challenges in oral-maxillofacial surgery and the crucial role of sedation in increasing patient comfort during dental treatments, the assessment of complexity in the rehabilitation of edentulous patients, the genetic influence on congenital edentulousness, as well as current solutions for the rehabilitation of patients with extensive bone defects. 

A series of scientific communications focused on the integration of complementary therapies and recent research into medical practice regarding the relevance of physiokinetotherapy in the rehabilitation of temporomandibular dysfunctions, the treatment of maxillary sinus diseases and mandibular fractures in the context of implant preparation, the severity index of odontogenic infection and its applicability in the management of cervical facial phlegmons, the influence of diet on oral health in young adults, etc.

Presentations on new directions in dental imaging and modulation of tissue regeneration with the help of drug remedies were delivered, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. Peri-implant challenges and the treatment of toxic osteomyelitis, cases that require close coordination between medical specialties were discussed as well.

Later, presentations focused on advanced biomimetic restoration techniques in cases of severe tooth abrasion, highlighting the importance of aesthetics and functionality in contemporary dentistry. Moreover, minimally invasive methods for the treatment of odontogenic cysts and gnathological approaches applied in orthodontic treatments were discussed, reflecting the growing interest in personalized and patient-centered therapies.

The event ended with a poster and oral communication session, during which young researchers presented the results of their scientific studies.

The conference with international participation was organized by Nicolae Testemitanu State University of Medicine and Pharmacy in partnership with the Ministry of Health and the Academy of Sciences of Moldova. The event took place on April 11 and 12, 2025 and brought together academicians, professors, teaching staff, researchers, practicing dentists, students and resident doctors.

Photo source: Academy of Sciences of Moldova