The revolution in dentistry

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Expodental will hold a new edition, from March 14 to 16, at Ifema Madrid with the focus on the application of new technologies

Dentistry is undergoing a revolution. Technology is increasingly present in dental practices in the form of digital radiographs, lasers (for cavity removal, whitening, or soft tissue cutting), 3D printing (for creating models of teeth and gums), and artificial intelligence (used in pathology detection). The latest major procedure that has resisted disappearing is the tray impression technique: a process that required the use of a plastic mold inserted into the mouth with a viscous, sticky paste, which was then used for making prosthetics or various treatments. "Almost no one uses it anymore. Its a completely archaic and analog procedure," acknowledges Luis Garralda, president of the Dental Sector of Fenin. "It has been replaced by intraoral scanners, which are now in almost every practice," states the expert from the healthcare technology trade association, who, together with Ifema Madrid, organizes Expodental, the trade fair for sector professionals. There, at this biennial event (to be held from March 14 to 16), the industrys innovations will be unveiled, which, in terms of revenue, have already surpassed the COVID-19 health crisis but have been affected by disruptions in the global supply chain and the inflation unleashed in recent years. "It hasnt been an easy season for the sector," Garralda expresses. In 2023, the dental market grew between 2% and 3%, after billing around 930 million euros in 2022. Much better figures are expected for this year. "Theres something known as the Expodental effect, meaning that in fair years, many more equipment and technologies related to the sector are sold. Expodental is a showcase, and well see if this year we can grow between 3% and 4%," states the Fenin dental sector representative. "The event is a reference in the sector throughout Europe. Were not just talking about the Iberian Peninsula; it has positioned itself very strongly as one of the two most important in the continent," adds Ana Rodríguez, the shows director, which expects more than 27,000 professional visitors mainly from Portugal, Germany, France, Argentina, and Italy (the guest country). "We are working steadily and hard to improve the outcome," explains Rodríguez. "Our goal has always been to reach 30,000," Garralda adds. "Expodental is the industrys meeting point and where everyone plays a fundamental role: from sharing experiences to presenting innovative treatments, revolutionary techniques, and of course, being part of the most important networking generation of the year," emphasizes the event director. In addition to the exhibition area, the event will feature various spaces for presentations, lectures, training, and other content aimed at professionals. The fair also brings together various generations. For example, fourth and fifth-year dentistry students (who are about to enter the job market) can access for free on March 14th. "Spanish dentistry is getting younger. The average age is below 40 and continues to decrease," explains Garralda.