Foreword Prof. Dr. Peter Gängler

New knowledge in dental medicine, the epidemiology of dental diseases, etiology and pathogenesis, diagnostic and treatment strategies are the most important topics of continuing education. It is with no doubt fascinating to be exposed to new thinking, to changes of paradigms, and to dialogues among colleagues. The distribution of new knowledge and the discussion of contemporary dentistry in terms of prophylaxis, treatment, and maintenance care id today a global process, and the continuing education courses offered by the Greek-German Dental Association and by the Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Witten/Herdecke, will contribute to European harmonisation. Our University is devoted to the fruitful cooperation of clinical sciences and dental practice, and dental practicioners are our partners in developing the profession for the sake of our patients. Therefore, lectures from both countries will contribute to basic knowledge, clinical demonstrations and hands-on-workshops in an academic atmosphere.

The Faculty of Dental Medicine, University of Witten/Heredecke, has a long tradition in national and international continuing education, and it is remarkable that two European countries are organising joint series of continuing education courses. It is a a very good idea of the Greek-German Dental Association and its President, Dr. Pantelis Bochlogyros, to take this initiative, and the lecturers' team of our University accepted the invitation and will try their best to promote dental science and practice. We hope that all participants in courses in Athens and Witten will enjoy thw gain of knowledge, the joint discussions of new diagnostic and treatment strategies from prophylaxis, dental treatment to maintenance care in an atmosphere of friendship among colleagues.

Prof. Dr. Peter Gängler
Dean
Faculty of Dental Medicine
University of Witten/Herdecke