Comparing the Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic and Sirona Orthophos XG 3D Systems

As a certified pre-owned dealer of several different leading brands of panoramic X-ray and dental cone beam systems, Renew Digital is officially “brand neutral.” That means that we offer advice based on the objective features of each system and the needs of our customers. This enables our sales team to suggest the ideal models and modality for your practice, whether it be panoramic, cephalometric or CBCT, regardless of brand. With access to so many different leading dental X-ray machines, we can better serve our customers by matching them to the unit that is a perfect fit without any constraints.

Since we can offer so many different options, our customers often ask us for a comparative breakdown of the features and technology offered by the various models, especially when they have many similarities. In this article, we are going to compare two certified pre-owned panoramic X-ray and CBCT hybrid systems that are very similar in both price and functionality: the  Planmeca Promax 3D Classic and the Sirona Orthophos XG 3D systems.

Differences in Technology

Both the Planmeca ProMax 3D and Sirona Orthophos XG 3D are very similar in features and function. Probably the most significant difference is the manner in which the units capture a panoramic or cone beam exposure.

The Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic features SCARA (Selectively Compliant Articulated Robot Arm) technology, which makes exact, additional movements during rotation in order to capture complex anatomical features in fine detail. SCARA helps deliver more accurate and precise CBCT and panoramic images by using real-time computations of dynamic rotational patterns to eliminate mechanical restrictions and capture the most detailed, accurate imaging possible. SCARA technology is not available in the Sirona Orthophos XG 3D system, although it still delivers exceptionally high-quality panoramic X-rays and dental cone beam scans.

Available Imaging Modalities

Both of these extraoral imaging machines feature a dedicated 2D panoramic imaging modality as well as small and medium field of view (FOV) cone beam imaging, giving you the ability to capture both standard panoramic and detailed CBCT scans. In addition, both systems can be upgraded to include a cephalometric attachment at the time of purchase or later through the manufacturer.

Panoramic Imaging Programs

Each manufacturer delivers a set of included panoramic options to meet a wide variety of clinical needs.

The Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic includes the following panoramic imaging programs:

• Standard panoramic
• Orthogonal panoramic
• Pediatric panoramic
• TMJ and sinus (multiple views)
• Planmeca’s True Extraoral Bitewing functionality using SCARA technology for more accurate bitewing exams at up to 77% less radiation than traditional intraoral bitewings (subject to availability)

• Standard panoramic
• Standard panoramic without ascending rami
• Standard panoramic with variations including orthoradial, artifact reduced and constant magnification
• Thick slice panoramic for the anterior tooth region
• TMJ and sinus (both multiple views)
• Two different types of extraoral bitewings, with projections for both the anterior and posterior tooth regions (subject to availability)

Patient Positioning for Panoramic Imaging

Both systems require careful patient positioning when capturing panoramic X-rays to achieve the highest-quality results.

When positioning patients to capture panoramic scans with the Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic:

• Patients face the operator (the same as with 3D scans)
• There are three positioning lights, including an adjustable layer light
• The patient is held in place with two temple rests and a bite stick for stability; edentulous patients may use a chin rest.

-Patients face a mirror (the same as with 3D scans)

• There are two positioning lights with no additional layer setting
• The patient is stabilized via the aid of a three-pronged positioner and a bite stick; as with the Planmeca, edentulous patients may use a chin rest.

Dental CBCT Imaging Programs

Both of these panoramic and dental CBCT systems include several convenient, pre-programmed 3D imaging settings to capture a variety of exams.

The Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic features the following image settings for capturing 3D scans:

• High-resolution mode, with a 100 μm voxel size and a 12 second exposure time
• Standard resolution mode, with a 200 μm voxel size and a 12 second exposure time
• Low dose mode, with a 400 μm voxel size and 2.8 second exposure time. This setting is used for radiation dose sensitive patients and for follow-up exams where the added resolution is unnecessary.

The Sirona Orthophos XG 3D system offers the following CBCT 3D imaging settings:

• High-resolution mode, with a 100 μm voxel size and a 14.1 second exposure time.
• Standard resolution mode, with a 200 μm voxel size and a 5 second exposure time.

Dental CBCT Field of View (FOV) Sizes

These two systems offer very similar dental CBCT FOV sizes to support a variety of dental applications including general dentistry, dental implants, surgical guides, oral and maxillofacial surgery, endodontics and more.

The Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic includes the following 3D FOV sizes:

• 8x8cm to capture both arches
• 8x5cm for a single arch (mandible or maxilla)
• 5x5cm for a focused single tooth, such as for endodontic applications

The Sirona Orthophos XG 3D captures similar 3D scans, including:

• 8x8cm to capture both arches
• 8x5.5cm for a single arch (mandible or maxilla)
• 5x5.5cm, a small FOV for localized and endodontic applications

Patient Positioning for Dental CBCT Imaging

Proper patient positioning for 3D scans is critical to achieving the best possible dental CBCT images.

When positioning patients to capture CBCT imaging using the Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic:

• Patients face the operator, putting patients at ease and minimizing the risk of movement; the operator programs images via a keypad or touchpad at the front of the machine.
• Patients are held in place via separate 3D head stabilizers that are specially designed for CBCT imaging, with their chins placed in a chin cup, which maintains a natural bite.
• Patients may sit or stand during capture; the system is wheelchair-friendly as well.

When positioning patients to capture CBCT imaging using the Sirona Orthophos XG 3D:

• Patients face a mirror; the operator can view positioning via the patient’s reflection while programming the images.
• The patient is stabilized via three panoramic positioners. There is no need to use different stabilizers, or a bite stick during exposure.
• Patients may choose to sit or stand during exposure; like the Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic, this unit is also handicap-enabled.

Included Software

Renew Digital includes the latest 3D imaging software with every certified pre-owned dental CBCT purchase.

Each Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic system Romexis 3D imaging software.

• Romexis can capture and manage both 2D and 3D images
• You may also choose to integrate your current 2D panoramic or cephalometric images into your current software using a TWAIN interface.

Every certified pre-owned Sirona Orthophos XG 3D system comes with the latest Sidexis and Galaxis software (for 2D and 3D scans, respectively). As with the Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic, you can also choose to integrate your current 2D panoramic or cephalometric imaging software using a TWAIN interface.

Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic and Sirona Orthophos XG 3D Systems at 30-50% off New List Prices!

Renew Digital has been the leading provider of certified pre-owned dental digital imaging systems for over a decade, offering a wide range of used panoramic, cephalometric and cone beam systems to dentists and dental specialists across the United States. We deliver only the highest-quality, premium models from top brands such as Planmeca and Dentsply Sirona at an unbelievable value.

Buying a certified pre-owned Planmeca ProMax 3D Classic or a Sirona Orthophos XG 3D system can save you up to 30-50% off the price of a new unit with no sacrifice to quality or service. All used dental equipment sold by Renew Digital is tested and retested to ensure compliance with manufacturer specifications; plus, all of their pre-owned CBCT systems are sold in “like new” condition, complete with the latest 3D imaging software and up-to-date features.

In addition, the sale price of used dental equipment from Renew Digital includes installation, training, and a comprehensive warranty that covers both replacement parts and onsite service. You’ll also have unlimited access to Renew Digital’s 5-star-rated customer service and support.

To learn more about these systems or to see what models are currently available,  contact us online or by phone at 888-246-5611. Our sales team will help you determine the ideal model for your dental practice and your budget. Be sure to ask about equipment financing and other special offers to save even more.