What to look for in a 3D imaging machine

What to look for in a 3D imaging machine

Ben Caswell shares the top features to look for in a 3D imaging machine, and why investing in digital dentistry is so important.

With the advent of increasingly sophisticated implants and orthodontic solutions on the market, the question of digital dentistry has already been answered. The benefits of going digital are clear for both practitioner and patient, thanks to increased accuracy in diagnosis and greater precision in treatment planning. Also, improved communication and outcomes, greater efficiency and a safer X-ray experience thanks to reduced radiation exposure from digital versus traditional X-rays.

For many practices, the future is now, and they have already invested in the benefits of digital imaging solutions, ranging from sensors and phosphor plate scanners right up to heavy-duty CBCT machines. Standing in the middle of this range is a hero product, the extra-oral 3D machine. Here, Ben Caswell – digital solutions manager at KaVo UK & Ireland – identifies what to consider before buying one.

‘Bang for your buck’

When it comes to a significant capital equipment investment, you want to know that you’re spending your money as wisely as possible. With a range of imaging models on offer, most priced competitively and within the same ball-park, it’s critical to ensure that you’re choosing a model that gives you every last bang for your buck.  

Broadly speaking, there are two different sets of criteria to consider closely – those that will directly benefit you as a practitioner, to make your work both easier and more sophisticated, and those that will also benefit your patients. In the world of private dentistry where patients are increasingly aware of their own choices, such assets are set to become more and more prevalent in this sector.

Ease of operation

For the operator, ease of operation is the number one priority. If you can make it work quickly, you can make it work efficiently. 

  • Look for a system with open architecture. The KaVo ProXam 3DQ machine allows for a range of positions for the patient. For example, easy face to face positioning helps to manage and calm anxious patients
  • A large vertical range of motion will improve the positioning options for wider range of patients, creating comfort for tall people, children and those in wheelchairs
  • maximum volume size – look for something up to 19×15 cm – to allow for large pre-configured programs for a wide range of diagnostic applications including ENT options
  • An intuitive, quick and simple image processing function, that will allow you to get the perfect capture.

Image quality

In addition to the positioning options and general ease of use, once you’ve captured the patient image, you’ll want to be assured that the output is as precise as it can be. Therefore, look closely into the image quality features on offer, such as:

  • An ultra-low dose function can reduce the effective radiation without any statistical reduction in image quality. The KaVo ProXam 3DQ does this, for example, by an average of 77% to ensure patient safeguarding against unnecessary radiation exposure
  • Look for features such as scout recording that can identify optimal positioning before 3D images are finalised, reducing the risk of taking additional 3D images because of poor patient positioning
  • An endo mode voxel size of 75 will produce detailed images with high resolution
  • A CALM mode – something that automatically corrects motion artifacts if a patient moves during image collection, again minimising the need for retakes and therefore not only creating greater accuracy but also a safer clinical situation
  • ARA mode – this is something that reduces metal artifact streaks and shadows from any existing patient restorations, preventing emphasis on the wrong part of the image
  • Optimal noise reduction, sometimes referred to as AINO, enables low radiation dose while ensuring high image quality through the use of extremely small voxel sizes – basically an all-round winning situation. KaVo ProXam’s 3DQ machine will do this automatically, even when using its low dose function
  • Software that allows you to view 3D images in the highest resolution possible and that is compatible with both Windows and MAC operating systems. The KaVo ProXam 3DQ utilises the world-renowned Romexis software for this purpose.

KaVo Innovations Tour 2024

To be guided through these principles, come along to one of the events on the KaVo Innovations Tour 2024, where KaVo are showcasing the ProXam digital imaging range in a state-of-the-art mobile showroom. 

You can test-drive an extra-oral 3D machine and hear from high-profile speakers, earn free CPD. You might even meet professional sports stars and test-drive Mercedes-Benz latest cars! Taking place across the UK from 25 June to 5 July.


Register your interest today: [email protected] / www.kavo.com/en-uk/news/kavos-roadshow-2024.

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