COLOGNE, Germany - Preparations are underway here for the opening of the International Dental Show (IDS) on Tuesday, March 25. However, Monday is a busy day, even with the show not officially open. Companies such as Ivoclar Vivadent are holding press conferences to discuss their latest offerings, and we will have recaps of these meetings, including interviews in both audio and video form, coming this week.
2 imaging products already drawing interest in Cologne
Ahead of the IDS opening, I have received numerous press releases about new products that will be on display during the meeting. You'll see them firsthand through DrBicuspid's upcoming reporting, but here are two new imaging products that are already catching my eye.
First, Detection Technology has launched a first‑of‑its‑kind X‑Panel 2520z FOM-CSG-TG flat-panel detector that is designed to elevate dental imaging. This trend‑setting 25 cm x 20 cm detector is the first to feature advanced IGZO‑TFT technology at this size, delivering a significantly larger field of view and enhanced image quality compared to traditional a‑Si panels.
Second, a dental-dedicated MRI (ddMRI) that is being developed by Dentsply Sirona and Siemens Healthineers, together with leading scientists in Europe and the U.S., this revolutionary imaging technology is expected to expand dentomaxillofacial diagnostic capabilities, potentially offering soft-tissue contrast through radiation-free imaging. With DS Core enabling MRI data-sharing to facilitate peer-to-peer collaboration, this breakthrough technology is planned to be another complementary addition to Dentsply Sirona's advanced imaging portfolio.
We will have more on these later in the week, including when and if they might be available for purchase in the U.S.
Exclusive interview: GC's vision for 2025 and beyond
Joseph Talanges, president and COO of GC America.
With IDS on the horizon, GC executives are gearing up to showcase the company's latest advancements and reinforce its growing presence in the U.S. market.
The impact of global trade is reflected in dental innovation
For many in the industry, IDS represents the pinnacle of global dental exhibitions. The event offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness cutting-edge technology and network with leading professionals. Reflecting on his first IDS experience in 2023, Joseph Talanges, president and chief operating officer of GC America, shared his initial impression:
"I was just blown away at the size of it, the scale, the presence, the excitement, the education," Talanges said. "It really reminded me of my formative career years in medical technology and biopharma, seeing huge conferences for orthopedic surgeons, oncologists, hospitalists, pharmacists, and critical care nurses. To see general dentists and specialists in an environment of innovation across the entire continuum of care was inspiring."
Technology's role in the future of dentistry
GC's dedication to research and development (R&D) is a cornerstone of its success. With nearly 200 R&D professionals working around the clock, the company is committed to advancing dental materials and treatment workflows. This commitment extends beyond in-house innovation, as GC actively seeks partnerships with other companies that align with its vision.
"At our core, GC is a dental manufacturer that believes and delivers continuous improvement through R&D, innovation, and an unwavering focus on our dental customers around the world," Talanges said. "Whether it's our great chemistry, total quality management systems, or other dental solutions, we're constantly evaluating innovations that can benefit both clinicians and patients."
Expanding GC's presence in the U.S. market
While GC is a well-respected global brand, its full potential remains largely untapped in the U.S. The company sees this as an opportunity for growth.
"The reality is, most folks in the U.S. only know the tip of the iceberg when it comes to GC," Talanges said. "But once they see what we're doing, our research, our quality, and our vision, they get even more excited about working with us."
With an emphasis on brand consistency and deeper engagement with dental professionals, GC is poised to solidify its reputation as a leader in the world's dental market.
Looking ahead to 2025
As GC prepares for IDS and beyond, its mission remains clear: to drive innovation while staying true to the values that have defined the company for generations. By prioritizing research, compliance, and customer-driven development, GC is well positioned to shape the future of dental care.
"There's a depth to GC's story that hasn't been fully told yet," Talanges said. "This year is going to be about sharing that story, showcasing our innovations, and continuing to deliver excellence in everything we do."
With this vision in mind, Talanges believes GC is set to make a lasting impact on the global dental industry.
