After the exciting 2025 edition, which confirmed our Congress as one of the most anticipated and well-attended events of the year, it is my great pleasure to present the XXXIV National Congress and 3rd International Congress of the Italian Academy of Endodontics, to be held from 26 to 28 February 2026 at the Savoia Regency Hotel Conference Centre in Bologna.

The theme chosen for the 2026 edition - “Minimal Invasiveness. Myth or Reality?” - invites us to reflect on a central concept in contemporary dentistry: how truly possible is it to be minimally invasive in Endodontics without compromising effectiveness, safety, and predictability? Are we dealing with a well-established clinical philosophy or with an idea that is often misused and misunderstood?

To answer these questions, we have invited internationally renowned Speakers - some of the most important voices in research and clinical practice - who will guide us through a critical and balanced journey of scientific evidence, clinical experience, and innovative approaches. The programme is rich and multifaceted, designed to offer practical, immediately applicable concepts without sacrificing cientific depth. Confirmed Invited speakers include Jose Aranguren, Stephane Simon, Konstantinos Kalogeropoulos, Mustafa Gündoğar, Camillo D’Arcangelo, Francesc Abella, Massimo Giovarruscio, Jose Gaviño and Fabio Gorni. We are also honoured to host the Keynote Lecture by Prof. Ken Hargreaves, Editor of the Journal of Endodontics, a true icon in global endodontic research and clinical practice.

The pre-congress Course on Thursday will be led by Antonis Chaniotis and Hugo Sousa Dias, on the stimulating topic “The Canal Blockage Course”, an unmissable opportunity to update knowledge and discuss complex cases and advanced strategies.

On Thursday afternoon, we will once again host the informal “Aperitif with the Speaker”, offering Participants the opportunity to meet leading Speakers in a relaxed setting and engage in open dialogue on techniques, trends, and new perspectives in our discipline.

On Friday and Saturday, both Italian and International Speakers will take the stage in plenary and parallel sessions, addressing every aspect of minimal invasiveness: from diagnostics to instrumentation, from shaping to structural preservation, from irrigation to the post-endodontic restorative approach.

The much-appreciated Friday afternoon Company Workshops, combining theory and hands-on practice, will also be held, allowing participants to test the most innovative products and technologies on the market, thanks to the support of companies that enthusiastically sustain our Academy’s activities.

The Social Lunch & Learn will also be present on Friday: the most important social media groups in Endodontics will share their insights and experiences.

Naturally, our hallmark social moment will also take place: the Congress Dinner & AIE Night Party, an unmissable occasion for networking, enjoyment, and strengthening the sense of community that has always characterised the AIE experience.

Once again, this year, we aim to enhance the international vocation of our Academy, with a strong presence of Colleagues from abroad, thanks to our partnerships with several scientific societies. The main sessions will feature simultaneous translation from Italian to English and vice versa, ensuring genuine and fruitful cultural exchange.

With the trademark AIE style - driven by passion, collegiality, and openness to dialogue - the AIE 2026 Congress promises to be a unique moment for both scientific and personal growth. We look forward to welcoming you in Bologna, with the enthusiasm, curiosity, and spirit of sharing that unite us all.