The School of Dentistry has once again demonstrated its excellence in dental research, with Dr. George P. Babiolakis, a senior registrar in Prosthodontics, earning top honours at the 54th Annual Scientific Meeting of the International Association for Dental Research (IADR).

Dr Babiolakis won first place in the Postgraduate Research Competition for his study “Colour stability of injectable composites exposed to dietary staining agents.” His research impressed the judging panel for its scientific rigour, clinical relevance, and contribution to improving the quality and longevity of restorative dental materials used in everyday practice.

The IADR conference, held annually, brings together academics, researchers, and postgraduate students from across the country to showcase cutting-edge research that shapes oral health care's future. Winning the national postgraduate category is among the most prestigious accolades available to young dental researchers in South Africa.

Dr Babiolakis’s research focuses on a key challenge in modern dentistry, maintaining injectable composite restorations' long-term colour and appearance. These materials are increasingly popular in aesthetic and restorative dentistry because they allow for minimally invasive procedures and excellent aesthetic results at a reduced cost. However, exposure to everyday dietary substances such as coffee, tea, red wine, and cola can cause discolouration over time.

His project examined how different dietary staining agents affect the colour stability of two of the most popular composites used for the injection moulding technique, and how the polishability influences this. The findings provide valuable insights for clinicians and manufacturers seeking to enhance these restorations' durability and visual appeal.

“Understanding how composite materials respond to real-world conditions helps us make more informed decisions in patient care,” Dr Babiolakis explained. “It also contributes to developing restorative techniques that maintain both function and aesthetics over the long term.”

The judges praised his ability to combine scientific precision with practical application — a hallmark of impactful clinical research.

As the national winner, Dr Babiolakis will represent South Africa at the IADR/AADOCR/CADR General Session & Exhibition, one of the world’s most prestigious international gatherings for dental and oral health researchers. The event will showcase research from leading scientists and postgraduate students across the globe.

For Dr Babiolakis, the opportunity is an honour. “Being recognised at this level is deeply humbling,” he said. “It reflects not only my individual effort but also the incredible mentorship and academic environment within the Department of Prosthodontics and the School of Dentistry at UP.”

Professor Leanne Sykes, Head of the Department of Prosthodontics, expressed pride in Dr Babiolakis’s achievement, describing it as a reflection of the School’s strong culture of mentorship and innovation. “Dr Babiolakis has shown consistent dedication and meticulous attention to detail in his studies, research, and patient care,” Prof Sykes said. “He approaches his clinical and academic work with professionalism and passion, and this award is a fitting recognition of his hard work and commitment to advancing evidence-based dentistry.”

This latest success underscores the University of Pretoria’s commitment to producing world-class dental professionals and researchers who contribute meaningfully to global knowledge and patient care. The School of Dentistry, one of Africa’s leading dental institutions, continues to promote research that bridges laboratory science with clinical application.

“Achievements like this are more than individual milestones; they reflect the University’s broader mission to lead through innovation and excellence in health sciences,” Prof Sykes added. “We are immensely proud to see our postgraduate students making an impact.”

Dr Babiolakis is grateful to the University of Pretoria for fostering an environment encouraging curiosity, discipline, and excellence. He carries the pride of his department, faculty, and country; his success represents a personal accomplishment and the strength of South Africa’s dental research community.

“This is indeed a prestigious research award,” said Prof Sykes. “Dr Babiolakis’s achievement brings honour to our School, Faculty, and the University. It serves as an inspiration to our students and a reminder that excellence in research begins with passion and perseverance.”

With this win, Dr Babiolakis joins the ranks of young researchers shaping the future of dentistry — proving that innovation, integrity, and dedication to patient care remain at the heart of the University of Pretoria’s success story.