Nobel Biocare Medal of Excellence in Implant Dentistry

"Nobody should die with their teeth
in a glass of water."

Per-Ingvar Brånemark

Congratulations to the 2026 winners!

Dr. Holger Zipprich

Contemporary Innovation & Discovery

Dr. Holger Zipprich is honored for pioneering research that reshaped understanding of implant interface mechanics and stability. Name on more than 240 published patents and patent applications, his innovations include the trioval geometry of the Nobel Biocare N1™ system, electrochemical implant decontamination, and advanced ceramic implant surface technologies. His work exemplifies the translation of scientific discovery into meaningful advances in clinical practice.

Dr. Rubén Rosenberg

Humanitarian Service

Dr. Rubén Rosenberg has brought life‑changing dental care to one of the world’s most remote communities, providing over 300 smiles to patients on Rapa Nui. Leading a multidisciplinary volunteer team, he has delivered free implant treatment to 337 people, nearly half receiving immediate full‑arch restorations in a single day. Since 2018, Dr. Rosenberg and his collaborators have placed nearly one thousand implants, transforming access to dental care on the island. His work stands as a powerful example of compassion, collaboration, and enduring impact.

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Information on nominations for 2027 coming soon

"Nobel Biocare is proud to establish the Medal of Excellence in Implant Dentistry, a prestigious annual recognition honoring an individual who has made extraordinary contributions to the field of dental implantology. Each year, this exclusive recognition will celebrate either pioneering innovation or significant humanitarian service, ultimately improving patient care and advancing the science of dentistry."
Stefan Nilsson, President of Nobel Biocare

The award

The award is given annually to honor an individual's, association’s, or group’s outstanding contribution to improving oral and general health through dental implantology.

Led by the esteemed Prof. Tomas Albrektsson, our dedicated committee will meticulously review nominations from around the globe, seeking individuals who embody the spirit of excellence and compassion.
Learn more about the committee >

The recipient of the Nobel Biocare Medal of Excellence in Implant Dentistry will be selected based on the strength and impact of nominations received in either of the following categories:

Innovation

Outstanding contributions in the area of advancing treatment solutions, science, or protocols in the field of implant dentistry that will support clinicians in treating more patients better.

Humanitarian service

Outstanding contributions in improving the quality of life for people in need by providing dental implant treatments that extend beyond the usual scope of daily practice.

Our mission

To annually honor an individual making a significant positive impact on global oral health through innovation or humanitarian service in implant dentistry.

To encourage both groundbreaking innovation and meaningful humanitarian efforts within the field of implantology.

To promote excellence and compassion in implant dentistry by recognizing impactful contributions in innovation and humanitarian service.