Press releases
published 02.03.2007 12:51
Accurate visualisation of anatomy with Planmeca’s digital Planmeca ProMax X-ray units
Planmeca ProMax X-ray units provide the complete range of extraoral X-ray imaging modalities for the needs of modern surgical dentistry. The state-of-the-art Planmeca ProMax platform utilises robotic SCARA technology that enables free formation of the imaging geometry and provides precise movements required in rotational maxillofacial radiography. Planmeca ProMax and Planmeca ProMax 3D offer the widest selection of panoramic and tomographic imaging programs.
The Planmeca ProMax product line provides the dental practice with digital panoramic, cephalometric, tomographic, and three-dimensional imaging. Each Planmeca ProMax incorporates a digitally controlled X-ray generator, allowing a fast pulse sequence and an Ethernet-based data path to its digital sensor for high capacity of image transfer. The uniqueness of the Planmeca ProMax platform lies in its upgradability, as the 3D imaging modality is reached by a mere upgrade of the Planmeca ProMax digital X-ray.
With the unique SCARA technology (Selectively Compliant Articulated Robot Arm), the imaging geometry is calculated by software and performed with a three-joint robotic SCARA arm. The SCARA arm can produce any movement pattern that is required in existing or future exposure programs; hence imaging capabilities have no mechanical restrictions. Moreover, this technology allows upgrade of new imaging programs through software and enables optimal radiography for each individual patient type and for virtually any need of maxillofacial diagnostics.
Planmeca ProMax 3D, the X-ray unit including three-dimensional imaging, provides excellent tools in areas such as implantology, dental and maxillofacial surgery, endodontics, orthodontics, and periodontics. Planmeca ProMax 3D’s imaging technique is based on CBVT technology (Cone Beam Volumetric Tomography), in which the X-ray beam used is shaped in the form of a cone or a pyramid. With the new technique, only a single, 18-second semicircle scan is required to generate the necessary image data. Since each image is made using a short X-ray pulse rather than continuous radiation, the actual exposure time is only 6 seconds. This technique reduces motion artefacts and patient radiation dose considerably. Unlike earlier image intensifiers, the 3D sensor used in Planmeca ProMax 3D is a semiconductor-based flat-panel sensor that is insensitive to electrical or magnetic field disturbances.
The open positioning concept of Planmeca ProMax platform minimises errors caused by incorrect patient positioning. As the SCARA arm can be moved away from the patient for positioning, the operator may observe the patient freely from all directions. A triple laser beam system assists in alignment by indicating the correct anatomical landmarks accurately.
The full colour TFT display with the graphic user interface (GUI) guides the operator with clear and logical program selection. Any new imaging program is taken into use by entering an activation code on the GUI. This makes introduction of new features fast and trouble-free.
The advanced design and the functional concept of Planmeca ProMax X-ray units declare the units can perform superior maxillofacial radiography now and decades into the future. In addition, Planmeca is the only company to offer a 3D unit based on their existing X-ray unit, Planmeca ProMax.
For further information, please contact
Mr Auvo Asikainen, Vice President, X-ray Division
Tel. +358 20 7795 502
auvo.asikainen@planmeca.com
For press contacts, please contact
Mrs Heidi Spännäri, Corporate Communications Manager
Tel. +358 20 7795 580
heidi.spannari@planmeca.com
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Planmeca Oy
Planmeca Oy, the parent company of the Finnish Planmeca Group, was established in 1971. Planmeca Oy manufactures a full line of high technology dental equipment, including dental units, panoramic and intraoral X-rays, as well as leading digital imaging X-ray systems. The company has also pioneered in the use of digital dental practice concepts that allow efficient and ergonomic information management. Planmeca Oy is the world’s largest privately held company in the dental business.
98% of Planmeca’s production is exported to over 100 countries. Planmeca is well established on the U.S. market and has considerable market shares in many European countries. The market share in Asia is also growing favourably. Planmeca is the third largest dental equipment manufacturer in Europe. The Group estimated turnover for the year 2007 is approximately MEUR 520 with over 2,000 employees.

