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INNOVATIONS

IDS 2025: KEY TRENDS AND INNOVATIONS

IDS 2025 showcased numerous innovations, with a focus on digital Uploading files instead of sending them by e-mail or Wetransfer,
dentistry, 3D printing, and AI-driven solutions and remains the downloading software and thus benefitting from the progress in Artificial
epicenter of dental innovation. Intelligence – this idea is no longer a vague vision today, but a tangible
We are no longer in the era where we saw just individual technological reality. These platforms are evolving beyond just storage to connect all
improvements; instead, we have full systems working together in tandem aspects of the digital workflow. The shift is driven by the realization that
aptly termed “connected dentistry”. Intraoral scanners and 3D printing standalone tools, no matter how advanced, can disrupt daily operations.
are quickly becoming a norm rather than an exception. What’s really The emphasis has moved from individual device capabilities to the need
exciting is that artificial intelligence is now being integrated throughout for seamless integration across workflows.
the entire digital process. Cloud platforms place the focus on safe and convenient data
transmission between the laboratories, clinics and practices. IDS 2025
The Phenomenal Surge of 3D Printing continues highlighted that the future of dentistry is not just digital but cloud-
The enthusiasm surrounding 3D printing is undeniable, as emerging connected.
technologies in this field are experiencing rapid growth!
This year’s IDS revealed some truly amazing advancements and Ability for continuous milling in dental technology
alliances among industry titans. The evolution of 3D printing from a Four-axle CAD/CAM milling machines comply with the desire for
specialized tool for models and surgical aids to a dominant force in top performance in continuous operation with spindle water cooling –
applications ranging from clear aligners to permanent restorations was targeting the operating area between the tool and the workpiece. This
clear. means it is more frequently possible to do without additional abrasives;
The highlight was the strategic alliances formed between major they only remain absolutely necessary when processing titanium (as a
players and 3D printing pioneers, underscoring a rule for abutments). Advanced 5x dry mills especially
significant realization: additive manufacturing is not impress with a more efficient processing of the hardest
merely an option; it is essential for the future of dental materials (namely cobalt chrome).
production. The users are faced with more and more options,
Leading zirconia and ceramic manufacturers are particularly in the additive manufacturing section. In
now embracing 3D printing as a fundamental to the metal printing section these include the laser metal
their future strategies. New printers are achieving fusion technology (LMF), the selective laser melting
unparalleled speed, accuracy, and material method (SLM), selective laser sintering (SLS), direct
compatibility. metal laser sintering (DMLS) and lasercusing. All of
On the materials front, the advancements in resin the cited methods are used to produce crowns, bridges
technology are accelerating too, with new options and denture bases (“digital model casting bases”) from
boasting enhanced properties, stunning aesthetics, non-precious metal dental alloys.
and biocompatibility. Clearly, 3D printing has surged
far beyond its initial potential, establishing itself as a transformative force Key developments in Orthodontics
in dental manufacturing. The pressing question now is not whether 3D Many different developments are coming together in the field of
printing will eclipse traditional methods, but how soon that will happen! orthodontics. For instance, there are the first 3D printed attachments.
Their advantages include high precision, durability and colour stability.
AI was the buzzword These attachments are among other things used for correcting slightly
At IDS 2025, one technology truly shined: Artificial Intelligence! Gone misaligned teeth prior to restorative treatments.
are the days when AI was just a term of the future; it has evolved into For children as well as for patients with narrow jaws, a specially
a vital component of contemporary digital dentistry. This year, what’s developed splint for relief from acute CMD symptoms is now available.
truly remarkable is the leap AI has made from being a standalone tool It fulfills several functions at the same time, offers both neuromuscular
to seamlessly integrating into core processes within dental technology. relief, helps correct adapted postures and balances occlusal interferences.
Tasks that once required extensive manual effort can now be handled Beyond this, it can also be used as diagnostics for recognising CMD-
with ease, as AI swiftly assesses needs and crafts sophisticated designs related symptoms at an early stage.
in record time. This transformation is reshaping laboratory workflows, For the bruxism therapy, special splints bring along an integrated
empowering technicians to concentrate on personalization and biofeedback mechanism. If the wearer grinds his teeth while sleeping
refinement rather than design tasks! they vibrate and subtle tone (similar to a mobile phone) at precisely the
right intensity so they don’t wake the bruxers, but gently encourage them
Cloud-based dentistry to stop grinding their teeth. An integrated data retrieval enables a precise
The biggest innovative power across all different areas of dentistry lies analysis of individual grinding patterns and opens up new possibilities
in the consolidation of all relevant information in secure Cloud systems. of stress prevention and patient awareness. n

68 Dental Practice I March-April 2025 I Vol 21 No 2