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At Ivoclar’s press conference ahead of IDS, CEO Markus Heinz presented the company’s comprehensive portfolio, emphasising efficiency, workflow optimisation and patient comfort. (All images: Ivoclar Vivadent)

Fri. 25. April 2025

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In a rapidly evolving dental landscape shaped by digitalisation, artificial intelligence and rising patient expectations, Ivoclar continues to focus on simplifying workflows and empowering dental professionals—without compromising on quality, longevity or care. Ahead of the 2025 International Dental Show (IDS), Dental Tribune International spoke to Markus Heinz, CEO of Ivoclar, about how the company is helping shape the future of dentistry. In this interview, he shares insights into the company’s innovation strategy, sustainability efforts, educational initiatives and long-term vision.

Mr Heinz, Ivoclar is known for its continuous innovation in dental technology. Can you share some of the key new products or solutions you are introducing at IDS 2025 and explain how they address the evolving needs of dental professionals?
At IDS 2025, we’re showcasing a broad portfolio of new solutions that really reflect where the industry is heading. One area we’re especially excited about is prevention and care, which we’re highlighting with a dedicated booth. It’s a space where we present clinically proven products that support long-term oral health through effective evidence-based care.

Another big step forwards is in removable prosthetics, where we’re launching Ivotion Base Print, our first printable PMMA-like denture base material, which can be processed in a validated workflow in the PrograPrint system as well as in other authorised printing systems, like Asiga and SprintRay. This marks an important move towards fully digital workflows in denture fabrication—bringing greater speed, accuracy and consistency to laboratories and clinics.

At IDS 2025 Ivoclar presented innovations from its major product categories.

At IDS 2025 Ivoclar presented innovations from its major product categories.

We’re also expanding our IPS e.max portfolio with the ZirCAD Prime block. It’s a high-strength zirconia with excellent translucency—perfect for natural-looking anterior restorations in a monolithic workflow.

In restorative dentistry, we’re introducing Tetric plus, a next-generation simplified universal composite. It offers improved handling and polishability, as well as shade-matching capabilities that simplify everyday restorative procedures.

Finally, we’re continuing to advance our digital CAM systems and have introduced new software that significantly improves laboratory and chairside productivity—something we know is top of mind for many dental professionals today.

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important topic in dentistry. How is Ivoclar integrating environmentally friendly practices into its products and manufacturing processes?
Sustainability is much more than a buzzword for us; it’s a key part of our long-term strategy. We started by analysing our emissions through the Greenhouse Gas Protocol, which gave us a solid foundation for real change. We’re not interested in simply buying certificates; we’re focused on taking tangible action.

That includes eco-friendly packaging, large-scale investment in photovoltaic energy and more-localised supply chains to reduce transport-related emissions. We also consider sustainability from the very start of product development, assessing the carbon footprint early so that we can make smarter, greener choices before anything goes to market. It’s a comprehensive effort and one that’s embedded across our company—covering sourcing, manufacturing, logistics and product design.

Education and professional development are essential for dental professionals to stay ahead in their field. What initiatives or training programmes does Ivoclar offer to support continuous learning and skill development?
Education has always been a big part of who we are. That’s why Ivoclar Academy offers a variety of formats to fit any schedule or learning style. Online webinars and digital courses offer convenience and flexibility, and in-person workshops provide hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities.

Ivoclar’s Live Academy delivered first-hand knowledge directly at IDS.

Ivoclar’s Live Academy delivered first-hand knowledge directly at IDS.

But we also recognise that learning styles are changing—especially among younger dental professionals, who often prefer short-form, interactive and digital content. That’s why we’ve developed a blended learning model that combines digital education with the essential hands-on training clinicians still need. One standout example is Ivoclar Summer School. Since 2022, it’s grown into a global programme through which students get access to expert-led lectures and workshops. Last year, we welcomed 117 students from 28 countries—and we’re expanding it again in 2025. This new format is a new centrepiece that reflects our commitment to supporting lifelong learning with formats that work for dental professionals at every stage of their careers.

The dental industry is constantly evolving, evident in new materials, digital workflows and shifting patient expectations. What key market trends do you see shaping the future of dentistry, and how is Ivoclar preparing for these changes? And what is your vision for Ivoclar in the coming years?
The pace of change in dentistry is incredible, and it’s clear that digitalisation and artificial intelligence will continue to play a major role. But we also believe that it’s crucial to connect these digital advances with the physical reality of dentistry. At the end of the day, a clinician still needs to deliver treatment and needs tools that are safe, efficient and easy to use. We hear from customers all the time that they’re under growing pressure to deliver high-quality results faster and that they want reliable streamlined workflows that help them do just that. That’s why we’re developing intuitive systems like our new CAM software, which boosts productivity by up to 45%.

We’re also putting major focus on preventive care, not only through products but also through Ivoclar Joy, our own aid programme. In some areas, our projects on awareness of preventive care and the provision of dental treatment to children and young people have helped entire school classes get cavity-free—that’s the kind of real-world impact we’re striving for!

Our vision is built on partnership, education, quality and efficiency. We’re not just delivering products; we’re delivering integrated solutions that help dental professionals around the world thrive while improving care and outcomes for their patients.

The Ivoclar team looks back on a successful IDS 2025.

The Ivoclar team looks back on a successful IDS 2025.

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