A Night of Celebration, Strategy, and a New Global Chapter for Dentistry
Under the lights of Porsche’s luxury showroom, surrounded by some of the world’s most iconic automobiles, the Brazilian Dental Association (ABO) officially inaugurated its long awaited U.S. chapter during the closing gala of the Dental Summit 2025. The event brought together leading dental professionals, business executives, immigration specialists, and Brazilian authorities — all united by a shared mission: to elevate the presence, influence, and opportunities of Brazilian dentistry in the United States.
The evening marked not only the end of a successful summit but also the beginning of a historic expansion for one of the world’s most respected dental institutions.
A 106-Year Legacy Reaches American Soil
For the first time since its founding in 1919, the Associação Brasileira de Odontologia (ABO) — a global reference in dental education, research, and professional development — is establishing a permanent international headquarters. And its new home is Orlando, a city that has become a magnet for Brazilian professionals and a growing hub for healthcare innovation.
“This is more than an expansion,” said Dr. Marcelo Schettini, President of ABO-US. “It is a bridge between nations, a celebration of excellence, and a commitment to supporting every Brazilian dentist who arrives in this country with a dream.”
Representing the national leadership, Dr. Celso Minervino Russo, President of ABO-Brasil, emphasized the strategic timing of the move.
“The United States faces one of the largest shortages of dental professionals in its history. This is the right time, and Orlando is the right place, for ABO to create opportunities, strengthen careers, and elevate our profession internationally.”
Why the U.S. Needs Brazilian Dentists More Than Ever
The American dental workforce is undergoing a critical transformation. Recent national reports show:
- More than 7,000 federally designated areas suffer from a shortage of dental professionals.
- The U.S. is projected to face a deficit of over 30,000 dentists by 2035, according to workforce studies.
- Florida, in particular, has one of the fastest growing demands for dental care due to population growth and aging demographics.
In contrast, Brazil is home to one of the world’s most qualified and numerous dental workforces, producing cutting edge research and leading global trends in implantology, aesthetics, and digital dentistry.
The arrival of ABO-US positions Brazilian professionals to fill real gaps in the American healthcare system — with structure, representation, and institutional support.
Authorities Celebrate Orlando as the New Home of Brazilian Dentistry
Brazilian authorities present at the gala highlighted the diplomatic and professional significance of the moment.
Dr. Samir Najjar, Federal Counselor of the Brazilian Federal Council of Dentistry (CFO), declared:
“Today, Orlando officially becomes the home of the Brazilian dentist in the United States. We are here to support, guide and advocate for our professionals abroad.”
Representing Brazil’s diplomatic mission, Consul General João Lucas Quental reinforced the broader impact:
“The presence of ABO in the U.S. strengthens Brazil’s image, opens doors for professional exchange, and supports our community with dignity and representation.”
Industry Leaders, Innovators, and Specialists Unite
The gala attracted leaders shaping the future of dentistry across the Americas.
Surgeon-dentist Paulo De Lucca Mengal highlighted the Summit’s relevance:
“This event brings us knowledge, direction and unity. ABO-US is arriving to fill a real need.”
From the financial sector, Monica Ribeiro, Senior Vice President at Seacoast Bank, emphasized the economic impact:
“We witness so many Brazilian professionals helping expand the healthcare landscape in Florida. ABO-US will only accelerate this positive contribution.”
Representing the corporate and innovation sector, Alexei Costa, President of Neodent, added:
“Innovation, science and global collaboration — that’s what this Summit represents. And that’s exactly what the United States needs from Brazilian dentistry.”
Stories of Courage, Immigration, and New Beginnings
The gala also highlighted the personal journeys behind the profession.
Dentist Camila Jusevicius, who traveled from São Paulo, shared:
“I came from São Paulo just to be here. I’m in the early stages of my immigration journey, and seeing this community so united gives me confidence that I’m on the right path.”
Immigration attorney Andrea Bower encouraged professionals considering the same path:
“This is the moment. There are legal pathways, new models of credentialing, and a growing need for skilled dentists. The demand in the U.S. is real and opportunities are expanding.”
Dentist Silvana Chaerin Ziravello, already established in the U.S., reflected on the significance of the new chapter:
“I made this journey years ago, and now, with ABO-US here, I feel I can give back even more. We are building a future for the next generation.”
Honoring Excellence: 20 Professionals Recognized
One of the most emotional moments of the night was the tribute to 20 distinguished professionals whose careers have made a lasting impact in Brazil and abroad.
Among them was Dr. Geninho Thomé, celebrated for his scientific contributions and humanitarian work.
Even listed among Forbes’ global billionaire entrepreneurs, Thomé remains grounded in purpose.
“We never forget where we come from,” he said. “Our purpose as dentists goes beyond technique; it’s about serving and cooperating.”
A New Era Begins
With its U.S. launch, ABO is not simply opening an office — it is establishing a platform for education, advocacy, credentialing support, scientific exchange, and community empowerment.
The Dental Summit 2025 may have concluded, but for Brazilian dentistry in the United States, the journey is just beginning.