Events

If you want to submit a meeting or an event that is relevant to orthodontic teaching please contact the Secretary (see contact details). It is to the discretion of the Council to decide on placement on the NEBEOP website.


    • Event: NEBEOP Web Academy webinar- 52
    • Topic: Patient Centered approach to orthodontics: a focus on body dysmorphic disorders
    • Erasmus course:A9 Psychology of the child, adolescent and adult
    • Speaker:Professor Ambra Michelotti, University of Naples Federico II
    • Dates: Tuesday 03-02-2026; 19:00-20:15hr CET
    • Moderator: Dr. Rosaria Bucci, University of Naples Federico II
    • Mode: Zoom webinar. Registration through your program director

    • Abstract
    • Patient-centered treatment has become a cornerstone of contemporary orthodontic practice, extending beyond technical excellence to encompass psychological well-being, patient expectations, and perceived treatment outcomes. In recent years, increased awareness of body image concerns and body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) has highlighted the need for orthodontists to adopt a more holistic and ethically grounded approach to care. Patients presenting with unrealistic expectations or underlying psychological distress may be at higher risk of dissatisfaction, despite objectively successful clinical results. This presentation explores the principles of patient-centered orthodontic treatment with particular emphasis on the identification and management of patients with body dysmorphic traits. The relationship between patient expectations, communication strategies, and treatment satisfaction will be discussed, underscoring the importance of shared decision-making and informed consent. Evidence suggests that aligning treatment objectives with patient values and psychological readiness is a key determinant of long-term satisfaction and adherence. Clinical strategies for screening, communication, and interdisciplinary collaboration will be presented to support orthodontists in recognizing potential red flags and responding appropriately. By integrating psychological awareness with individualized treatment planning, orthodontic practitioners can improve patient satisfaction, reduce ethical dilemmas, and deliver care that respects both functional outcomes and patient well-being. Ultimately, patient-centered orthodontics represents a paradigm shift toward more empathetic, responsible, and sustainable clinical practice.

    • Objectives
    • Describe the principles of patient-centered care in orthodontics and their impact on treatment outcomes and patient satisfaction. Recognize signs and risk factors of body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and body image disturbances in orthodontic patients. Assess patient expectations and identify discrepancies between perceived needs and clinically achievable outcomes. Apply effective communication and shared decision-making strategies to align treatment goals with patient values and psychological readiness. Implement ethical and practical approaches for managing patients with unrealistic expectations or suspected psychological vulnerability. Evaluate the relationship between patient expectations, treatment experience, and overall satisfaction in orthodontic care.

    • Short Speaker Bio
    • Professor Ambra Michelottir is Full professor in Orthodontics and Clinical Gnathology at the University of Naples Federico II. She received an Honorary Degree in Dentistry at the University of Malmo (Sweden) in 2018. She is the Director of the postgraduate School in Orthodontics and responsible of the Master course on “Orofacial pain and Temporomandibular Disorders” at the University of Naples Federico II. She (co)authored more than 170 papers and is co-author of several book chapters.She is a former President of the European Academy of Craniomandibular Disorders (2010), of the Neuroscience group of IADR (2011), of SIDA (società italiana di disfunzioni ed algie temporomandibolari; 2012-2013), and of the RDC/TMD Consortium at the International Association of Dental Research (2013-2014); She is the President of the Italian Board of Orthodontics (IBO) and the European Society of Oral Physiology (2024). Prof. Michelotti is Editor in Chief of Orthodontics & Craniofacial Research, and Associate Editor of the European Journal of Oral Science, and the Journal of Oral Rehabilitation. Furthermore she is Editorial Board Member of the European Journal of Orthodontics.

    • References
    • 1: Asquini G, Devecchi V, Borromeo G, Tessera P, Russillo A, Michelotti A, Bucci R, Falla D. External Validation of a Clinical Prediction Tool for the Use of Manual Therapy in Patients With Temporo-mandibular Disorders. J Oral Rehabil. 2026 Feb;53(2):515-528.

    • 2: Michelotti A. Sheldon Friel Memorial Lecture 2025-Orthodontics and Temporomandibular Disorders: evolving views on risk factors, diagnosis, and management. Eur J Orthod. 2025 Oct 16;47(6):cjaf092.

    • 3: Cannatà D, Galdi M, Russo A, Scelza C, Michelotti A, Martina S. Reliability and Educational Suitability of TikTok Videos as a Source of Information on Sleep and Awake Bruxism: A Cross-Sectional Analysis. J Oral Rehabil. 2025 Apr;52(4):434-442.

    • 4: Iodice G, Michelotti A, D'Antò V, Martina S, Valletta R, Rongo R. Prevalence of psychosocial findings and their correlation with TMD symptoms in an adult population sample. Prog Orthod. 2024 Oct 14;25(1):39.

    • 5: Coppola G, Michelotti A, Simeon V, Koutris M, Lobbezoo F, Bucci R. Association between psychological traits and occlusal tactile acuity of healthy individuals. J Oral Rehabil. 2024 Nov;51(11):2452-2459.