From why to how—EADT President Andreas Kunz on developments and trends at IDS 2025

The dental industry takes centre stage at IDS, showcasing pioneering technologies that will shape the dental market. While IDS 2025 will continue to be shaped by digitalisation, the focus is shifting from why to how. One particularly interesting area is the use of assistance systems supported by artificial intelligence (AI). Additionally, 3D printing of ceramic materials and further advancements in intra-oral scanners are key topics. At the interface with dental laboratories, digital solutions such as a digital facebow will simplify communication. In the laboratory segment, open additive and subtractive manufacturing processes are evolving to streamline workflows. 

Practicality and functionality are key to both quality and efficiency in production and chairside applications. That is why visitors to IDS will find added value in what we call micro-developments—small yet significant refinements that provide a decisive advantage in clinical and technical applications. This trend is particularly evident in software solutions and their updates. Despite increasing complexity, new software applications—often enhanced by AI—are becoming easier to use. 

“IDS visitors will inevitably reassess their workflows in terms of efficiency and quality.” 

There is also promising progress in dental materials. Ceramic-filled resins will enhance workflows in both clinical and laboratory settings. Meanwhile, further advancements in zirconia are improving processing parameters, potentially leading to greater cost-efficiency. As a result, IDS visitors will inevitably reassess their workflows in terms of efficiency and quality and use these insights to guide future investments. 

Of course, IDS offers much more: networking with peers, live demonstrations by professionals and, above all, a clear overview of the latest trends shaping the dental industry. 

At the EADT, we will continue to track these developments and provide our members with practical insights through interactive online events such as TEAM Talks, as well as through specialist articles and peer-to-peer dialogue. 

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