By Digital Smile Design
⋅ 3 min read
⋅ 20 Mar 2025
The International Dental Show 2025 (IDS) is where the latest breakthroughs in dentistry take center stage. As one of the dental industry's biggest events, each year it showcases the technologies that will shape the future of patient care. But we know that not every dentist can be there in person — and this is where DSD comes in.
The DSD team will be on the ground in Cologne at IDS 2025 so we can be your eyes and ears and keep you in the know about the biggest innovations and industry shifts.
So, what’s on the horizon? Here are three major trends we predict for digital dentistry at the International Dental Show 2025.
Our predictions for what will be big in digital dentistry at IDS 2025
1. Smartphone-powered workflows
What are our predictions?
Comprehensive clinical apps: The next generation of dental applications is evolving beyond simple scheduling and communication. Dentists will be able to capture intraoral data, conduct preliminary diagnostics and create digital treatment plans—all through their smartphones.
Real-time collaboration: Cloud-based syncing will become instantaneous, ensuring seamless coordination between dentists, labs and specialists. This level of connectivity will help to eliminate clinical bottlenecks and enhance efficiency, whether scanning in-office or consulting remotely.
Enhanced patient engagement: Patients will gain a clearer understanding of their treatment plans with high-resolution imagery, live video consultations, and even augmented reality (AR) overlays.
Smartphones and intuitive apps are not just conveniences—they are essential tools for streamlining workflows and improving communication.
2. Chairside 3D printing to become mainstream
What are our predictions?
Accelerated print times: With AI-driven algorithms optimizing print parameters, we’re sure that high-precision models, guides and restorations can be produced more quickly than ever before.
More affordable technology: The cost of 3D printing hardware and materials is becoming more accessible, allowing even small practices to integrate in-office printing and reduce dependency on external labs.
Expanded material options: The dental industry is introducing an increasing variety of biocompatible 3D printing materials: from specialized resins for surgical guides to esthetic composite-like materials for crowns and veneers
DSD has always been at the forefront of bringing high-tech lab capabilities into dental practices. Our goal is to empower clinics with the best 3D printing solutions that are suited to their workflows and ensure flexibility, efficiency and predictable outcomes.
Too busy to attend IDS 2025? Let us be your inside source.
3. A new era of partnerships
What are our predictions?
Interoperable systems: Manufacturers are prioritizing compatibility, ensuring that scanners, milling machines and software platforms can work together, regardless of the brand.
AI-powered diagnostics: Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing diagnostic processes, making processes such as automated caries detection and AI-assisted implant planning more accurate and efficient than ever before.
Simplified workflows and better patient outcomes: AI-powered tools and improved interoperability are making it easier for dentists to streamline their workflows while delivering more predictable and patient-centric care.
AI-driven diagnostics and interoperable systems are not just trends—they are essential advancements that will define the future of patient care.
Why do IDS 2025 and these trends matter?
They all have an impact on the efficiency of digital workflows, which can transform the way dental offices operate. The ability to complete procedures faster - without compromising quality - also leads to a more enjoyable and productive experience for both practitioners and patients.
When it comes to affordability, new technologies and collaborations may be able to make cutting-edge digital solutions more cost-effective and therefore more accessible to a greater number of dental clinics and patients. As technology advances and costs decrease, high-quality digital dentistry will be available to smaller practices who can enhance their services and remain competitive in an evolving market.
Patient satisfaction is another key factor driving these advancements. Patients appreciate clear, visual treatment plans that make procedures easier to understand. Transparency in the treatment process fosters trust between dentists and patients, ultimately leading to increased case acceptance and a higher level of confidence in the care provided.
Our mission is to help dentists navigate these changes with confidence and help to make digital workflows a reality in your clinic in a realistic way. Our brand-agnostic approach also means you can choose the best technologies for your specific needs without being locked into a single system.
Will we see you at the International Dental Show 2025?
Wish you could be at IDS 2025? We’ll bring the best innovations straight to you. Get daily expert insights and your FREE 2025 Digital Dentistry Innovations Guide by subscribing below:
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