IDS Cologne – the world's leading trade fair for the dental industry

Experience the future of dentistry live: innovation, precision, and networking at the highest level

The International Dental Show (IDS) in Cologne is the world's most important trade fair for the dental market. Every two years, Koelnmesse becomes the global center for dentists, dental technicians, dental hygienists, dealers, manufacturers, and scientists who want to find out about the latest developments in dental medicine, technology, and practice organization. With more than 2,000 exhibitors from over 60 countries and around 160,000 trade visitors from all over the world, the IDS is not only an impressive showcase, but also an important industry meeting place for exchange, training, and strategic development. The trade fair is considered a barometer for technological trends and a platform for the entire dental value chain.

Innovations for practices and laboratories

IDS presents the latest technology in all areas of dental care—from diagnostic imaging, CAD/CAM systems, implantology, endodontics, prophylaxis, and dental materials to digital workflows and 3D printing. Particularly striking is the increasing integration of digital technologies into everyday practice: intraoral scanners, AI-supported diagnostics, robot-assisted assistance systems, and cloud-based treatment planning enable more precise, faster, and more patient-friendly therapies. In dental laboratories, too, digital processes such as additive manufacturing, digital modeling, and networked milling centers are revolutionizing production processes. The IDS not only offers technology to look at, but also to touch: many exhibitors offer live demonstrations, product tests, and personal advice—a real added value for the professional audience.

Science meets practice—knowledge transfer in all directions

A central feature of the IDS is the intensive exchange between practice, research, and industry. Whether it's material development, minimally invasive procedures, or new treatment guidelines, many developments in recent years were first presented to a broad specialist audience at IDS. Specialist lectures, panel discussions, and workshops accompany the trade fair and enable a targeted in-depth examination of current topics. The spectrum of topics ranges from clinical questions to business management aspects to practice organization in an increasingly digitalized world. Anyone interested in other trade fairs in Cologne – whether in medicine, technology, lifestyle, or business – will find a comprehensive overview of the regional event portfolio at Cologne Trade Fair.

Focus on sustainability and hygiene

The pandemic has brought infection control, material hygiene, and practice design into sharp focus. At IDS, manufacturers will showcase solutions that make modern dental practices not only more efficient, but also more hygienic and sustainable. From contactless workflows and sustainable consumables to energy-saving medical technology, the industry will present innovative concepts that take both environmental aspects and patient safety into account.

Marketplace for the dental industry

In addition to technological innovation, IDS also focuses on business: numerous companies use the trade fair to launch new products, strengthen sales structures, or establish international partnerships. For dealers, purchasing cooperatives, and practice founders, the trade fair is an ideal opportunity to gain a comprehensive overview of products, suppliers, and trends—and to make targeted investments.

International perspectives and global networking

The IDS is not only nationally significant—it is a global forum. Representatives from Asia, North America, South America, Europe, and Africa showcase the diversity of markets and the range of dental care systems worldwide. International collaborations, standardization initiatives, and global trends such as mobile dentistry and teledentistry find their place here.

Cologne – the capital of the dental industry

As a long-standing venue, Cologne is closely linked to the history and success of IDS. The excellent accessibility, the modern infrastructure of Koelnmesse, and the lively city with its gastronomy and cultural scene make a visit to the trade fair a holistic experience. For many exhibitors and visitors, IDS is a fixed date in their calendars – not only for networking and ordering, but also for taking stock: Where does the industry stand? What challenges lie ahead? And what solutions are already available? The IDS in Cologne is a showcase of possibilities – for improving dental care worldwide, for dialogue on innovation and ethics, and for the future viability of an industry that is constantly evolving. Further information can be found on the organizer's website: www.ids-cologne.de