The Resale Value of Your Dental Imaging Equipment in 2026

Understanding What Your X-Ray, CBCT, or Scanner Is Really Worth—and How to Maximize It

Dental imaging technology is one of the most important—and most expensive—capital investments in a dental practice. Whether you’re upgrading to 3D, expanding to a new location, or simply keeping technology current, your old imaging equipment has real resale value in 2026.

At Renew Digital, we see firsthand how much practices can recover when they sell or trade in their equipment. In this article, we break down:

• What impacts resale value
• Typical values you can expect in 2026
• How to maximize what you get back
• Why working with a trusted partner matters

What Affects the Resale Value of Imaging Equipment

Unlike consumables or practice furniture, imaging systems are specialized assets with measurable market value—especially if they’re modern, well-maintained, and from a reputable brand.

Here are the key factors that determine what your machine is worth:

1. Age and Exposure Count

• Newer units—especially those under 10 years old hold more value.
• Imaging systems with lower exposure counts are practically easier to resell since they are perceived as “less used” (similar to mileage on a car).

Example: A CBCT with 15,000 exposures will fetch more than one with 40,000 exposures—even if they’re the same model.

2. Brand and Model

Certain brands are more desirable in the resale market due to reliability, service availability, and parts support.

Top brands that retain value in 2026 include:

• Planmeca
• Sirona
• Carestream
• i-CAT
• Vatech
• DEXIS

Practices can often recover more from systems in this brand tier because there’s consistent demand.

3. Condition and Service

Well-maintained machines with a clean service history inevitably sell for more. Cosmetic condition matters too—scuffed panels and missing parts reduce buyer confidence.

What you should document:

• Recent calibration or service reports
• Any part replacements
• Software version and update history
• Accessories included

Also, keep in mind that your equipment must be installed and operational in order to hold value for a reseller like Renew Digital. Preemptively removing your equipment may diminish what you can expect to get for your machine.

4. Software & Compatibility

Systems that are:

• Running current software versions
• Compatible with modern practice management systems
• Able to integrate with 3D planning or software suites

…are more valuable than units locked on old or outdated software.

What You Can Expect to Earn in 2026

In today's market climate, it's difficult to provide an estimate without first understanding the conditions listed above. 

Tell us what equipment you have, and we'll provide a direct and transparent quote. Get a free valuation by completing the form here: https://share.hsforms.com/1ZC7a1wqxRQGw5Jp6OpC0Ngdgh5y

Why Equipment Consistent with Practice Needs Resells Better

Certain features consistently make a system easier to resell:

• 3D readiness: Panoramic units that are CBCT upgradeable
• Multiple FOV options: Units that serve both general and specialty needs
• Wireless or easy-to-integrate scanners
• Clear documentation of usage and case examples

The more versatile and well-documented your system, the broader the buyer pool and the higher the resale price.

Timing Your Sale for Maximum Return

Did you know that when you sell matters nearly as much as what you sell?

Best Times to Sell or Trade In:

• Before a major upgrade or remodel
• Before a new model release
• At year end (before tax deadlines)
  → Many practices trade equipment before December 31 to optimize Section 179 tax deductions.
• Around major trade shows like AAO or SmileCon, when competitors are actively evaluating upgrades

Timing your sale strategically can help practices avoid steep depreciation and get better offers.

How to Maximize Your Resale Value

Here are practical tips to get the most when selling:

1. Keep it Installed Until Inspection

Resellers, including Renew Digital, typically require the unit to be installed and operational at the time of pickup to accurately test and assess.

2. Gather Documentation

Compile:

• Manufacturer data plates
• Exposure counts
• Service history
• Sample images

The easier it is to assess, the faster the quote and often the higher the offer.

3. Clean & Maintain

A clean, well-kept unit signals quality and reduces buyer risk.

4. Sell Before Obsolescence

Technology evolves fast. Selling a unit while it’s still supported—and before it drops off compatibility lists—increases demand and price.

Why Working with Renew Digital Matters

Selling directly is possible, but working with an established specialist like Renew Digital offers major advantages:

✔ Fair, transparent offers based on real market data
✔ Full logistics handling—we arrange pickup, crating, and shipping
✔ Same-day or quick payment once inspection is complete
✔ No guesswork—we guide you through valuation and timing
✔ We buy a wide range of brands and models

Our team also works directly with dealers, new equipment vendors, and practices of all sizes—so we can provide flexible payment options to suit your needs.

Ready to Find Out What Your Imaging Equipment Is Worth?

Don’t let your legacy systems sit idle in storage—or lose value just because it’s “old.”

👉 Get a free valuation from Renew Digital:
https://share.hsforms.com/1ZC7a1wqxRQGw5Jp6OpC0Ngdgh5y

Whether you’re selling, trading in, or planning an upgrade, Renew Digital is here to help you unlock value and make smarter decisions for 2026.

Renew Digital — Certified Pre-Owned Imaging Equipment

Better equipment. Better support. Better value.