International Dental Show 2023 – Day 1 Recap

Once again the global dental community is gathered in Cologne, Germany to take part in the industry's largest trade event, the International Dental Show (IDS) with close to 2000 exhibitors showing off the latest innovations for dental practices and laboratories.

Celebrating its 100th anniversary, the 2023 IDS opened March 14, and with so many companies spread throughout 11 different exhibit halls and floors, it's a good thing attendees have 5 days to try to take it all in. Companies both big and small, and old and new were busy meeting with dental professionals and prospective partners in their booths and at media briefings throughout the day.

Here are some of the highlights from Day 1.

Henry Schein Discusses the Future of Dentistry and the Technologies Shaping It

Big data, connected dentistry, and artificial intelligence (AI) were the main topics covered during the Henry Schein press briefing as company CEO Stanley Bergman and other executives shared what they see as the future of the dental industry, but before they spoke, popular AI platform ChatGPT was allowed to present its own vision of what lies ahead for dental care, and it did a commendable job as the AI highlighted the importance of advanced diagnostics and preventive treatment, the power of digital dentistry and robotics, and of course the growing use of AI technologies.

While Bergman agreed with most of ChatGPT's predictions, he was quick to point out that innovative technologies are wonderful new tools for clinicians, but they are not likely to replace what dentists, hygienists, and other dental professionals do for patients.

"Technology can replace a lot, but it can't replace the human touch," he says.

While assessing where he sees the industry in terms of technology adoption, Bergman noted that intraoral scanning has moved beyond the innovation stage and is now approaching being "in the standard of care category." He also noted the rapid advancements in dental 3D printing, a technology he expects will also move past the innovation stage in the next 4 years.

Going forward, Bergman says he expects data to be a big focus, and integrating that data with hardware and software that works for practices and labs is critical. He also stressed the need for solutions to keep their platforms open in order to foster better connections, enhanced technology adoption, and better clinical outcomes.

Henry Schein is focused on helping create clinical workflows that leverage new technologies to make practice and lab operations more consistent and reliable. Besides the previously mentioned technologies, augmented reality is another exciting area of innovation the company expects to grow in the industry.

"Let's enjoy dentistry," Bergman says while closing the press conference. "Let's enjoy the technology because people need dentistry."

Dentsply Sirona Focuses on Digital Dentistry While Promoting Sustainability

With a pair of panel discussions, Dentsply Sirona made a point to highlight the importance of digital dentistry for the industry's future while also promoting sustainability in dental practices and the industry at large.

While the two topics were covered by separate panels, the overlap was clear as shifting to digital dental technologies can be one key part of a practice reducing its environmental impact. Partnering with the FDI, as well as others around the industry, the company is launching a series of free online education modules to help practices become more sustainable in their operations. Additional resources on the topic are also available from FDI.

But while the company is out front talking about sustainability, it is also working hard to reduce its own impact on the planet, and hoping to set a new standard for others to follow. Besides turning to renewable energy where possible, and working toward other internal sustainability goals, Dentsply Sirona also made sure it's expansive IDS 2023 booth was made from sustainable, reused, and recyclable materials.

"Our actions are truly speaking as loud as our words," notes Dentsply Sirona CEO Simon Campion. "I think that as we educate both customers and patients, then the demand will come from that side to other companies to begin to engage in a more meaningful way in sustainability."

GC Announces New Aadva IOS200 Scanner

New technology was also the focus at the press briefing from GC Corp. The company debuted its latest intraoral scanner, the Aadva IOS200. With a small and light scanning handpiece, the new system is designed to provide enhanced comfort for both clinicians and patients, while capturing high-quality digital impressions.

With its thin profile and light weight, the handpiece makes it easier to reach all areas of the mouth, and the learning curve for new users is greatly simplified.

vhf Launches E3 Aligner Trimmer

After the recent launches of its new E5 and E4 mills, vhf used the 2023 IDS as the venue for the launch of its latest "E Series" product. The new E3 is a compact, tabletop unit that automatically trims and clear aligners. The system is designed to enhance productivity while lowering costs by saving staff time that was previously spent finishing the appliances.

Additional IDS 2023 Day 1 Notes

At the Amman Girrbach booth, the company is focusing on its complete digital chairside solution known as DRS. Among the updates on display was an updated intraoral scanner for the system, as well as enhanced software designed to improve accuracy and efficiency while continuing to support a range of clinical applications.

Finally, PreXion was busy showing a preview of the company's latest CBCT solution. However, the new solution is not yet through regulatory, and not much more can be said beyond noting that the latest from PreXion will likely be on display at the annual California Dental Association meeting in Anaheim this May.

Check back tomorrow for a look at the innovations and announcements from day 2 of IDS 2023.