FAQs: Purchasing a 3D Dental CT Scan Machine

With more and more dental and specialty practices making an investment in dental cone beam (CBCT) systems, you may be considering upgrading your practice’s imaging equipment. Three-dimensional imaging improves treatment planning capability while allowing your practice to expand your in-house service offerings to attract more patients. However, CBCT systems are sizable investments that require proper planning and consideration. With so many reputable products in the CBCT market today, how do you choose the right machine? If you focus on a few key features that are important to your practice, it will help you feel confident in your investment.

To help focus on the critical features of your CBCT investment, first, you need to answer these five questions:

• What procedures do I plan on utilizing a CBCT system for?
• How much space do I have to dedicate to this machine?
• Is the 3D imaging software compatible with my current digital imaging software?
• Will I get reliable support and a warranty with the purchase?
• Am I getting the best value achievable?

How Can I Use My CBCT System?

With three-dimensional imaging available immediately through an in-house system, your practice will be able to improve treatment planning for more complex procedures such as dental implants, orthodontics, endodontics, TMJ, sinus/airway studies, and more. The information gained from CBCT scans prior to any of these procedures is invaluable and is quickly becoming the standard of care.

Depending on how you answered the first question, this will help you narrow down your CBCT options. The procedures you plan on offering will determine which field of view (FOV) you will require. There are three general categories that CBCT systems fall under based upon field of view (FOV): small, medium, and large.

• Small FOV: Small FOV machines typically acquire an area of 5x5cm or less. Small, or focused FOV cone beam is a great choice for single implants or endodontic procedures, where 3D images of a single tooth or quadrant are sufficient.

• Medium FOV: Medium FOV cone beam systems typically scan between 8x8cm up to 10x10cm. These are adequate for most applications and allow you to capture most of the essential anatomy up to both arches.

• Large FOV: Large FOV systems range from 10x16cm up to 23x17cm. These units are best for capturing the majority of the cranium in a single scan. Large field-of-view cone beam systems are ideal for orthodontic procedures, oral surgery, sleep studies, and other procedures that extend beyond the dentition.

With your field of view selection, also know that larger field of view units can capture smaller field of view scans to reduce radiation exposure as needed. This keeps your practice within the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable), giving you the flexibility to offer procedures at any dosage.

How Much Space Does a CBCT Machine Take?

Once you’ve filtered your potential options down to the correct field of view, you’ll also need to envision the space it will occupy in your office. If you’re limited in the amount of  space you can allocate to imaging in your practice, your choices will also be more limited. Fortunately, most CBCT machines take up approximately the same amount of space as a traditional panoramic unit, and many have both 3D and 2D sensors to offer you an all-in-one solution. This dual capability means your new CBCT machine can replace your old panoramic machine, so no additional space will be required.

What CBCT Softwares Are Available, and Which Are Compatible with My System?

For 3D volumes, the cone beam system typically includes its own software that acquires the image and allows for a scan to be shared throughout the office. In many cases, the 3D software will integrate with a 2D imaging software, so you’ll want to check compatibility..

All CBCT machines export the same raw data in the digital imaging and communications in medicine (DICOM) format, which can then be opened in various viewing and planning software programs.

Overall, be mindful of the systems you’re using currently so that the CBCT machine you choose will be compatible. Most often, you’ll be able to fit your CBCT into your existing workflows with the right CBCT purchase.

What CBCT Systems Offer the Best Support and Warranty?

With the sizable investment you’ll make in your CBCT system, you won’t want poor support getting in the way of your usage of your new equipment. You’ll want peace of mind that your investment is covered with readily available support and a comprehensive warranty. This is a critical consideration during the purchase process.

Speak to a sales representative and inquire about the service and warranty programs. Read online reviews from other dental professionals. Learn what’s covered with the purchase, and what’s not, so you can feel confident with your purchase. Sometimes, you may also need to consider your location, because some providers won’t have coverage in your area.

How Much Does a Dental CT Scan Machine Cost?

If you’re purchasing an in-house dental CT scan machine to expand your service offering, oftentimes you’ll be able to see a positive return on investment very quickly. However, you should still be prepared with a budget and financing.

When you’re shopping for CBCT machines, understand that as the FOV increases, so does the cost of the machine. Across the industry, however, prices of CBCT machines continue to decrease as competition increases. Today’s market now offers CBCT machines at a wide range of prices.

By assessing all of the key features above, you can help your practice make the right investment at the best possible value.

Save 30% to 50% Off New Dental CT Scan Machine List Prices by Buying Certified Pre-Owned Through Us!

Dentists and dental professionals looking to make the investment in CBCT imaging systems can turn to the experts here at Renew Digital to help them find the right machine for their needs, often while saving substantially over new list prices.

We offer a wide variety of certified pre-owned CBCT systems, saving you 30% to 50% off new list prices, to help you maximize your investment. Contact us today to speak with a sales representative. Our representatives are highly knowledgeable and can help you narrow down your CBCT options, with every system backed by comprehensive support and warranty programs.