Recap: Why we travel all the way to China with our customers

27 dental technicians, a week in China and countless new impressions: Together with our long-standing partner Aidite, we at dentona organised a customer trip in spring 2026 that went far beyond a traditional factory tour. 

Why do we take our customers to the other side of the world? Because some things can only truly be understood when you experience them for yourself. Modern materials do not come about by chance. Behind them lie research, development, quality control and production processes that have a decisive influence on their subsequent success in the laboratory. This is precisely where the trip began. The programme included tours of the Aidite headquarters and the zirconia production facility, discussions with developers and product experts, and a visit to a Chinese dental laboratory. The technical programme was complemented by cultural visits such as the Great Wall of China and the Forbidden City. 

Many participants found it particularly impressive to be able to trace the development of a material from raw material to finished product. Processes that usually remain hidden in everyday life became transparent – as did the effort that goes into every single batch of material.

“I was able to gain valuable insights and intend to test the materials and procedures I learnt about and, where appropriate, integrate them into our laboratory processes,” summarises André von der Pütten his impressions. “The trip struck the perfect balance between professional development and cultural experiences.” 

Personal interaction also played a key role. Questions could be discussed directly with the developers and the Aidite team. At the same time, the visit to a large Chinese laboratory offered new perspectives on digital processes, organisation and the use of materials. 

“I would travel to China with dentona again in a heartbeat. The combination of getting to know a fascinating culture and gaining exciting insights into the world of zircon was a unique experience for me. This trip has enriched me both professionally and personally”, says Stephan Hillen. 

Simone Koopmann, too, looks back above all on the change of perspective: “It was impressive to see how far other countries have come in the field of technology. It was particularly exciting for me to get to know China and to experience the culture and the local people. I’m taking home many new impressions and valuable experiences.”

For dentona, the trip is a testament to a long-standing partnership. For many years, dentona and Aidite have been working closely together to develop solutions for modern dental technology. “It is impressive to see how Aidite has developed over recent years. The company is now one of the international technology leaders in the field of zirconia and continuously invests in research, materials and manufacturing technologies. At the same time, we are linked by far more than just a business relationship. Our collaboration is characterised by mutual trust, respect and a shared commitment to advancing dental technology. That is exactly what we want to demonstrate to our customers”, explains Carsten Wilkesmann, CEO of dentona AG. 

Yvonne Danneberg also confirms that this concept is a success: “The fascinating insights from China and the practical seminars at Aidite were particularly valuable. We’re returning with lots of new insights, inspiring experiences and lasting memories.” 

The huge response and consistently positive feedback demonstrate just how valuable direct exchange and a glimpse behind the scenes can be for day-to-day laboratory work. 

That is why the trip to China will not be a one-off experience. A follow-up trip is already being planned. Anyone interested can register their interest now, with no obligation.