Together for better patient care: building stronger alliances in periodontology and beyond

As he begins his presidency of the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP), Spyros Vassilopoulos outlines his vision for the federation's future. In this interview, he shares his priorities for the year ahead, key elements of the EFP's new strategic plan, and how the federation will address challenges such as sustainability, innovation, and advocacy - all with a view to advancing periodontal science, education, and patient care across Europe and beyond.

Q: As you take on the role of EFP president, what are your main priorities for the coming year?

Spyros Vassilopoulos: My top priority as EFP President is to strengthen the federation’s global reach and influence. Key priorities include improving communication with members and stakeholders, promoting periodontal health education, and embedding sustainability into our practices. I also want to focus on attracting a younger generation of leaders, enhancing EFP governance and operations, and diversifying revenue streams to ensure long-term financial stability. Ultimately, my goal is to reinforce the EFP’s leadership in promoting Better oral health for all, in Europe and worldwide. 

Q: The EFP has been working on a new strategic plan. Can you highlight the key focus areas for the federation moving forward?

SV: Our Vision 2030 strategic plan aims to transform the EFP into a stronger, more influential, and sustainable organisation.

This involves a multi-pronged approach focusing on four pillars: 

• Scientific excellence, including advancing clinical practice guidelines and fostering international collaboration 
• Enhanced periodontal education, through innovative, accessible educational programs and expanded postgraduate training opportunities
• Influencing policy and greater public awareness, by developing robust advocacy strategies and launching targeted public health campaigns
• Strengthened internal capabilities and governance, including optimising operations, boosting member engagement, and ensuring financial sustainability.

All these elements are connected and essential to achieving better oral health for all. 

Q: How do you see the EFP’s role in advancing periodontal science, education, and patient care across Europe and beyond? 

SV: The EFP plays a pivotal role in advancing periodontal science, education, and patient care at both European and global levels. This is achieved through multiple avenue: we facilitate the translation of research into evidence-based clinical guidelines; we offer high-quality educational initiatives like EuroPerio and Perio Master Clinics and engage in strategic advocacy to influence health policies and raise awareness about gum health and its systemic and financial implications.

Our white paper Time to Take Gum Disease Seriously, developed with The Economist Intelligence Unit, highlights the human and financial costs of gum disease and the benefits of prevention. By working with medical specialties and the media, we aim to strengthen awareness of the connection between periodontal and general health, ultimately improving patient care. 

Q: EuroPerio11 will take place during your presidency. What makes this edition particularly exciting, and how does it align with the new strategy? 

SV:  EuroPerio11 will be a key milestone in implementing Vision 2030. It will showcase the latest scientific breakthroughs, deliver cutting-edge education, foster collaboration, and raise public awareness of periodontal health. Notably, it will feature the symposium Patient Involvement to Enhance Periodontal Care: The Patient’s View, with the world premieres of two short films on the impact of periodontitis and dental implants, and a panel discussion with patients. Another highlight is Women’s Oral Health – Time to Explore, where female experts will address gender-specific oral health issues, including pregnancy and menopause. These sessions align closely with our goals of public engagement and inclusivity. 

Q: What challenges do you anticipate, and how are you prepared to address them? 

SV: The future, as always, presents several challenges: maintaining strong engagement across our diverse member societies, influencing policy in a complex healthcare landscape, and ensuring periodontology gains full recognition as a dental specialty, especially in countries where its importance is still underappreciated. Securing the financial resources needed to support ambitious research and educational initiatives is also paramount. To meet these challenges, we will prioritise strategic financial planning, targeted communication, and strong collaborations with national societies and other stakeholders. 

Q: Collaboration is a key part of the EFP’s work. How do you plan to strengthen partnerships within and beyond the periodontal community?

SV: Strengthening partnerships is a priority for me. I intend to foster closer ties with national periodontal societies, academic institutions, and other dental specialties. We will also deepen collaboration with healthcare organisations outside dentistry, emphasising the link between periodontal health and overall wellbeing. Expanding our international partnerships will help the EFP share best practices and broaden our global impact. 

Q: With sustainability and digital innovation shaping healthcare, how will the EFP integrate these into future initiatives? 

SV: The EFP is committed to integrating sustainability and digital innovation across into all its operations. We are focused on reducing our environmental impact while using digital tools to improve communication, education, and research. This includes online learning platforms, eco-friendly organisational practices, and exploring digital technologies to extend our reach and effectiveness. These efforts are fully aligned with the EFP’s 2025-2030 strategic vision. 

Q: What message would you like to share with EFP members and the wider oral health community as you begin your presidency?

SV: As I begin my presidency, I want to convey my deep appreciation to all our European and international members for their support and collaboration. Together, we have achieved significant progress in advancing periodontal health, but much work remains to be done. I am committed to building on the EFP’s strong foundation, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity. I encourage everyone to actively engage with our initiatives and help shape the future of periodontal health globally. I also invite national societies to leverage the EFP’s experience and knowledge to extend their impact and connect with broader audiences.

Together, we can continue to lead the way in improving patient care and wellbeing worldwide. Let's shape our future - together.