Prof. Pekka Vallittu | Biomaterials | Distinguished Scientist Award 

Professor, at Institute of Dentistry, Finland.

Professor Pekka K. Vallittu, born in 1965 in Mikkeli, Finland, is a distinguished figure in the field of biomaterials science. He holds degrees in Dental Technology (1988), Doctor of Dental Surgery, and Doctor of Philosophy (1994). Specializing in prosthodontics and stomatognathic physiology, Vallittu became a European Prosthodontic Association Recognized Prosthodontist in 2000. Currently, he serves as a Full Professor and Chair of Biomaterials Science at the University of Turku. His career spans various academic and clinical roles, including Head of the Institute of Dentistry at the University of Turku and Director of the Turku Clinical Biomaterials Centre. Vallittu has been instrumental in establishing several companies, such as Skulle Implants Corporation and Stick Tech Ltd, focusing on innovative dental and medical biomaterials. His research has significantly impacted clinical practices worldwide. theshift.fi+1utu.fi+1theshift.fi+2utu.fi+2utu.fi+2utu.fi+2utu.fi+2theshift.fi+2

Professional Profile

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ORCID

🎓 Education

Professor Vallittu’s academic journey commenced with a Certified Dental Technician qualification in 1988. He then pursued higher education at the University of Kuopio, earning his Licentiate of Odontology (DDS) in 1994, followed by a Doctor of Odontology (PhD) in the same year. In 2000, he achieved the status of EPA-Recognized Specialist in Prosthodontics, specializing in Prosthetic Dentistry and Stomatognathic Physiology. His educational path reflects a deep commitment to advancing dental sciences, laying a robust foundation for his subsequent research and clinical contributions.

💼 Experience

Professor Vallittu’s professional experience is extensive and multifaceted. Since 2006, he has been a Full Professor and Chair of Biomaterials Science at the University of Turku. His leadership roles include serving as Head of the Institute of Dentistry at the University of Turku from 2004 to 2012 and as Director of the Turku Clinical Biomaterials Centre since 2008. Additionally, Vallittu has held positions such as Chief Dentist (part-time) at the VARHA Welfare District of South-West Finland and Honorary Professor at the University of Hong Kong. His involvement in various academic and clinical settings underscores his dedication to integrating research with practical applications in dentistry. utu.fi

🔬 Research Interests

Professor Vallittu’s research interests encompass a broad spectrum within biomaterials science. He has pioneered studies on fiber-reinforced composites (FRCs), bioactive glasses, and bioceramics, focusing on their applications in dental and medical fields. His recent work delves into natural-based fibers, cellulose nanocrystals, biomineralization processes, and hydrogels, aiming to develop sustainable and biocompatible materials. Collaborating with experts across various disciplines, Vallittu strives to translate his research findings into clinical innovations, addressing challenges in bone regeneration and dental restorations. utu.fi

🏆 Awards

Professor Vallittu’s exceptional contributions have been recognized through numerous prestigious awards. In 2025, he was honored as an Invited Corresponding Member of the Odontologiska Samfundet I Finland and received the Apollonia Finnish Dental Society Silver Decoration. The previous year, he was inducted into the Finnish Academy of Science and Letters and awarded the Federation of Finnish Learned Societies Gold Medal. Other notable accolades include the George Winter Award by the European Society for Biomaterials in 2021 and the Doctor of Odontology Honoris Causa from the University of Eastern Finland in 2022. These honors reflect his significant impact on dental research and practice.

📚Top Noted  Publications

Professor Vallittu’s scholarly work is extensive, with over 740 peer-reviewed publications. His recent articles include:

1. Effect of Different Surface Treatments on Shear Bond Strength of Autopolymerizing Repair Resin to Denture Base Materials Processed with Different Technologies

• Journal: Journal of Prosthodontic Research

• DOI: 10.2186/jpr.JPR_D_23_00149

• Summary: This study evaluated the impact of chemical, mechanical, and combined surface treatments on the shear bond strength (SBS) between autopolymerizing repair resins and various denture base materials, including heat-cured, CAD-CAM milled, and 3D-printed resins. Results indicated that surface treatments significantly influenced SBS, with air particle abrasion and 180-grit abrasive paper enhancing bond strength, particularly for 3D-printed materials. jstage.jst.go.jp+1jstage.jst.go.jp+1jstage.jst.go.jp+2pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+2jstage.jst.go.jp+2

2. Impact of Restorative Material on Fracture Behaviors of Class II Restoration in Endodontically Treated Deciduous Molars

• Journal: Dental Materials Journal

• DOI: 10.4012/dmj.2024-067

• Summary: This research compared the fracture resistance of Class II restorations in endodontically treated deciduous molars using different materials: resin-modified glass ionomer cement (RMGIC), composite resin (CR), and short fiber-reinforced composite (SFRC). The study found that SFRC provided significantly higher fracture resistance compared to RMGIC and CR, especially in deciduous molars. pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+1jstage.jst.go.jp+1jstage.jst.go.jp+3researchgate.net+3pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov+3

3. Clinical Evaluation of Posterior Flowable Short Fiber-Reinforced Composite Restorations Without Proximal Surface Coverage

• Journal: Odontology

• DOI: 10.1007/s10266-024-00905-5

• Summary: This randomized clinical trial assessed the performance of posterior restorations using flowable SFRC without proximal surface coverage. Over an 18-month period, the restorations demonstrated satisfactory clinical outcomes, with no significant differences in marginal integrity or color match between the intervention and control groups. link.springer.compubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov

4. Biomechanical Considerations of Semi-Anatomic Glass Fiber-Reinforced Composite Implant for Mandibular Segmental Defects

• Journal: Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials

• Summary: This study explored the biomechanical properties of semi-anatomic glass fiber-reinforced composite implants used in mandibular segmental defect reconstructions. The findings highlighted the material’s potential in providing adequate mechanical support and promoting osseointegration, offering a promising alternative to traditional metal implants.

5. Co-Influence of Restoration Bonding and Inlay Cavity Design on Fracture Load of Restored Tooth

• Journal: European Journal of Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry

• DOI: 10.2186/jpr.JPR_D_23_00149

• Summary: This study investigated how inlay cavity design (edge-shaped vs. round) and bonding quality affect the fracture load of restored teeth. Results indicated that bonding quality significantly influenced fracture resistance, with round-shaped cavities bonded with high-quality protocols exhibiting the highest fracture loads.

Conclusion

Professor Pekka K. Vallittu’s career exemplifies the highest standards of scientific excellence, innovation, leadership, and societal impact in biomaterials science and prosthodontics. His extensive research output, successful translation of inventions to clinical practice, leadership in academia and industry, and broad recognition by prestigious awards strongly position him as an outstanding candidate for the Research for Distinguished Scientist Award.