The ITI operates through a global network of Sections that bring professional development opportunities to members in their local regions. Each Section is guided by a dedicated Leadership Team responsible for implementing the ITI’s educational initiatives, fostering community engagement, and promoting excellence in implant dentistry.
In this new feature, the ITI Blog takes a 360° look at both the personal and professional lives of the dedicated leadership teams who drive the ITI’s mission in their respective regions. We’ll explore their professional journeys, their motivations for joining the ITI, and gain insights into the people behind the titles.
Let’s meet the team behind the ITI Section Denmark
Leadership Insights: Q&A with the Denmark Section Team
In this issue, we interview Dr. Merete Aaboe (Chair & Communications Officer / YITI Delegate), Dr. Mette Rylev (Education Delegate), and Dr. Birgitte Skadborg (Study Club Coordinator).
What inspired you to join the Section Leadership Team?
Dr. Merete Aaboe (Chair & Communications Officer / YITI Delegate): It inspired me to be part of a very professional community, where we can work together to promote high standards in education and clinical practice.
Dr. Mette Rylev (Education Delegate): The possibility of creating education for a larger group of dentists motivated me to join and contribute.
Dr. Birgitte Skadborg (Study Club Coordinator): What inspired me was the chance to strengthen our local Study Clubs and to contribute to the ITI leadership team.
Dr. Merete Aaboe, Chair & Communications Officer / YITI Delegate
Educational Background: DDS, Oral and Maxillo-Facial Surgeon, Ph.D.
Current Position: Chair and Communications Officer / YITI Delegate, ITI Section Denmark
Professional Experience: Extensive background in oral and maxillo-facial surgery, implant dentistry, and academic leadership.
ITI Involvement: Joined ITI in 2006; served as Corresponding Editor and in various leadership roles; now Chair of the Section.
Fun Fact: Owner of an EMS (Electro Muscle Stimulation) training studio.
What project or initiative with the ITI are you most proud of?
Merete: I am proud of the Danish leadership team and the high level of collaboration we have achieved.
Mette: The development of the ITI Diploma and helping bring this education into Denmark is something I am very proud of.
Birgitte: Definitely the local Study Clubs — they provide so much value and connection within our community.
Dr. Mette Rylev, Education Delegate
Educational Background: DDS, Ph.D., EFP-certified Specialist in Periodontology
Current Position: Education Delegate, ITI Section Denmark; teaching associate professor and clinician.
Professional Experience: Over 15 years in academia and clinical dentistry, combining education with clinical excellence.
ITI Involvement: Active member; Education Delegate since 2024.
Fun Fact: Before dentistry, played basketball for the Danish national team.
What advice would you give to professionals considering involvement with the ITI?
Merete: Just do it. ITI is a very strong organization, and you will get back much more than you give.
Mette: ITI is an organization for dentists who want to improve their knowledge and skills in implant dentistry — so don’t hesitate to get involved.
Birgitte: My advice would be: don’t hesitate — get involved. The network and the opportunities are invaluable.
Dr. Birgitte Skadborg, Study Club Coordinator
Educational Background: DDS
Current Position: Study Club Coordinator, ITI Section Denmark; practicing dentist with 30 years’ experience.
Professional Experience: Longstanding clinical experience and active role in organizing and directing Study Clubs.
ITI Involvement: Member since 2022; active Study Club Coordinator, speaker, and contributor to local ITI initiatives.
Fun Fact: Loves skiing as a way to relax and recharge.
Which ITI core values do you most strongly identify with and why?
Merete: Just do it. ITI is a very strong organization, and you will get back much more than you give.
Mette: ITI is an organization for dentists who want to improve their knowledge and skills in implant dentistry — so don’t hesitate to get involved.
Birgitte: My advice would be: don’t hesitate — get involved. The network and the opportunities are invaluable.
Share something interesting about yourself outside your professional life.
Merete: I own an EMS (Electro Muscle Stimulation) training studio, which is a fun way to combine health and fitness with my daily life.
Mette: Before dentistry, I played basketball for the Danish national team — sports taught me discipline and teamwork.
Birgitte: I like to ski — it’s my way of recharging outside the clinic.
The Denmark leadership team exemplifies the ITI’s commitment to excellence in implant dentistry through education, research, and community building. Their diverse backgrounds and shared passion for advancement in the field continue to drive the Section’s growth and impact across the region.
Stay tuned for our next Section Spotlight, where we’ll introduce you to more of the remarkab
