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Advanced dental technologies explored by BS CerE students at Ivoclar Vivadent Philippines 

Mar 26 2026

Expanding their perspective on the applications of ceramic materials beyond traditional industries, fourth-year Bachelor of Science in Ceramic Engineering students from the College of Engineering (COE) of Mindanao State University–Iligan Institute of Technology (Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT) visited Ivoclar Vivadent, a global leader in dental technology, on February 18, 2026. The educational visit offered the students a rare glimpse into how advanced ceramic materials are transforming modern dental care and restorative treatments.

Headquartered in Schaan, Liechtenstein, Ivoclar Vivadent operates in more than 120 countries and is widely recognized for developing innovative dental materials and technologies. Its products enable dentists and dental technicians worldwide to provide patients with durable, high-quality dental restorations. For the Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT students, the visit demonstrated how the principles of ceramic science they study in the classroom are applied in one of the most precise and technologically advanced areas of materials engineering.

Ivoclar Philippines Process Engineer Vincent Echavez, an alumnus of Ãå±±½ûµØ-IIT’s Ceramic Engineering program, demonstrated how ceramic materials are used to produce dental restorations such as crowns, veneers, and bridges. The process begins with silica and lithium-based raw materials that are ground into fine powders and blended into a uniform mixture. These are formed into ceramic blocks and fired in high-temperature furnaces to create strong, durable structures. Using advanced CAD/CAM technology, the fired blocks are then milled into precise dental components, followed by polishing and glazing to achieve a smooth surface and natural tooth-like appearance.

Beyond the technical processes, the students also observed the company’s strict commitment to quality and safety. Production takes place under controlled clean-room conditions, where employees must wear full personal protective equipment, including hair covers, masks, and gloves, to prevent contamination. These measures ensure the hygiene and reliability of every product while maintaining the highest standards in dental material manufacturing.

Accompanied by Prof. Dr. Raymond V. Rivera Virtudazo and Engr. Harvey D. Melendrez from the Department of Materials Resources Engineering and Technology (DMRET), the visit highlighted how the fundamentals of ceramics extend far beyond traditional applications such as construction materials and industrial ceramics. Witnessing the precision, innovation, and responsibility required in dental materials production inspired the future ceramic engineers to think beyond conventional boundaries and explore new possibilities for ceramic materials in healthcare and other advanced industries.

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