Nikolaos Gkantidis

Biography

Nikolaos Gkantidis has been a full-time Senior Staff Member at the Department of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, University of Bern, Switzerland, since 2016. He earned the Venia Docendi (Privatdozent) title from the same institution in 2018. Dr. Gkantidis graduated from the Dental School of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece (2006). Subsequently, he pursued a post-graduate program in Orthodontics at the University of Athens, graduating with honours (2010), and run an orthodontic practice in Thessaloniki (2010-2016). Dr. Gkantidis completed his doctoral studies in Bern (2013) and also served as a part-time staff member of the Department (2012-2016). In 2022, he obtained a Ph.D. degree from the University of Groningen, the Netherlands.

Dr. Gkantidis has published numerous original research papers and forged national and international collaborations in key research areas, which include the development and utilization of 3D imaging techniques in clinical research and practice, the study of perceived treatment effects on facial attractiveness, and the application of geometric morphometric techniques to investigate craniofacial form. For his innovative work he has received various national and international grants and awards.

Title

3D imaging in complex clinical problems: is it really needed?

Abstract

Three-dimensional imaging in the craniofacial filed has now become an indispensable component of both daily clinical practice and cutting-edge research. The rapid influx of innovative hardware and software tools into our field is remarkable, but sometimes the pace at which these advancements occur can make it challenging to fully grasp and leverage their potential. Additionally, it is crucial to recognize that well-established techniques and traditional approaches, refined over years of practice, still hold their value and shouldn't be hastily discarded in pursuit of new, fancy technologies.

This lecture aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the array of 3D imaging tools available in the craniofacial domain, with a particular focus on their relevance to orthodontics. Specifically, we will explore three key modalities: extraoral 3D photography, intraoral 3D digital models, and 3D radiographs. Through the presentation of clinical cases, we will elucidate the tangible advantages offered by newly developed 3D imaging techniques in terms of diagnosis and decision-making, particularly in intricate and challenging cases.

AIMS, OBJECTIVES AND LEARNING OUTCOMES:

Aims:

To offer a comprehensive exploration of contemporary 3D imaging modalities, shedding light on their pivotal role in enhancing the precision of diagnosis and the efficacy of management strategies for intricate dental and orthodontic challenges.

Objectives: 

To empower clinicians and researchers with a comprehensive understanding of the array of 3D imaging tools at their disposal and the wide-ranging applications these tools offer for optimizing diagnosis and treatment outcomes, ultimately enhancing patient care and research endeavours.

Learning outcomes

• Gain a thorough understanding of current 3D imaging techniques and their relevance to orthodontics.
• Realize the distinct advantages and indications of each 3D imaging tool in contrast to traditional approaches, facilitating clinical decisions.
• Grasp the practical impact of innovative 3D approaches in enhancing patient care and research capabilities.