Digital Diagnostics & TMJ Assessment in Cologne
Intraoral scanners, 3D X-rays (CTA), and digital temporomandibular joint measurements: In Cologne, we capture precise images of teeth, jaws, and joints using low-radiation techniques and without uncomfortable impressions—the foundation of every safe treatment.
Every successful treatment begins with a thorough examination. At our practice in Cologne, we rely exclusively on digital diagnostics: contactless intraoral scanning instead of impressions, low-radiation 3D X-rays (DVT), digital temporomandibular joint measurement (DMD system), and in-house 3D printing—for the highest precision and maximum comfort.
Successful treatment in orthodontics, TMD, and sleep apnea therapy always begins with a thorough examination and precise diagnosis. At our specialty orthodontic practice in Cologne-Rodenkirchen, we consistently rely on modern digital techniques—from intraoral scanners to 3D X-rays (CTA) and digital temporomandibular joint measurements. This allows us to spare you the discomfort of traditional impressions while simultaneously creating a precise foundation for your personalized treatment plan.
Modern Digital Diagnostics: An Overview of Our Technology
- Intraoral scan instead of an impression
- Digital X-ray images instead of film processing
- High-resolution 3D X-ray machine (DVT)
- Digital Temporomandibular Joint Measurement
- Virtual articulator
- 3D printer
Digital dental impression using an intraoral scanner
At our practice in Cologne, we avoid conventional impressions whenever possible. Instead, we use an intraoral scanner to take digital impressions of the teeth directly—a quick 3D scan replaces the traditional dental impression.1
For our patients, this means
- No gag reflex
- No residue from impression material
- Direct visualization of tooth and jaw alignment
- Highest precision
- environmentally friendly process
3D X-rays (CTA) at the Orthodontist's Office
With conventional 2D X-rays, teeth and jaws, joints and maxillary sinuses are shown in full, but with blurring and overlapping. As a result, they provide little information about specific details.
DVT therefore offers the following advantages for you as a patient:
- three-dimensional, digital representations of all structures (teeth, jaws, temporomandibular joints, soft tissues, paranasal sinuses, etc.)
- excellent image quality
- significantly lower radiation exposure compared to conventional CT
- Environmentally friendly, as digital technology completely eliminates the need for X-ray film and chemicals used in film development
Digital temporomandibular joint measurement (DMD system)
Using digital temporomandibular joint measurement (DMD system), we measure the movements of the lower jaw and the spaces within the temporomandibular joint on a 1:1 scale. This 3D jaw measurement is one of the most precise methods in modern functional diagnostics.
As a patient, you benefit enormously in every respect:
- Occlusal splints are manufactured on your individual movement path
- Orthodontic planning is based on the physiological joint situation
- A disease of the temporomandibular joint is recognized or excluded from the outset
In a way, we make your joint VISIBLE! These precise measurements also form the basis for successful TMD and the fabrication of custom-fit occlusal splints.
In-house 3D printing process
Ouralignersand occlusal splints are made in Germany—or, more specifically, in Cologne-Rodenkirchen. Our in-house lab is equipped with state-of-the-art 3D printers, which allow us to work quickly, precisely, and consistently.
We provide you with your aligners, occlusal splints, braces, etc. quickly, as we are not dependent on external service providers. If there is ever a complaint, we take care of it immediately so that you are provided with a replacement as quickly as possible.
Frequently Asked Questions About Digital Diagnostics
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What does digital diagnostics mean in orthodontics?
Digital diagnostics means that we use modern digital equipment to capture images of your teeth, jaws, and temporomandibular joints—such as an intraoral scanner, 3D X-rays (DVT), and digital temporomandibular joint measurement. This results in an accurate three-dimensional image of your oral and jaw structure, which serves as the basis for precise and safe treatment planning.
Does a digital dental impression taken with an intraoral scanner hurt?
No. The intraoral scanner uses a small camera to scan your teeth with minimal contact. Unlike traditional impressions made with impression material, there is no gag reflex and no material residue—the scan is comfortable, quick, and can be repeated at any time.
How high is the radiation exposure during a 3D X-ray (DVT)?
Digital volume tomography (DVT) uses a significantly lower radiation dose than a conventional CT scan and is used only when there is a clear medical indication. It provides high-quality, three-dimensional images of the teeth, jaw, temporomandibular joints, and paranasal sinuses.
What is the purpose of digital temporomandibular joint measurement (DMD system)?
Using the DMD system, we measure the movements of the lower jaw and the spaces within the temporomandibular joint on a 1:1 scale. This allows us to detect functional disorders early on, tailor orthodontic treatment plans to your actual joint condition, and custom-make occlusal splints—which is also important for TMDtreatment.
How much does a digital temporomandibular joint assessment cost—and does health insurance cover it?
The cost of digital diagnostics—such as temporomandibular joint measurement using the DMD system—depends on the scope of the examination and the medical indication. We will clarify with you in advance, in a transparent manner, whether and to what extent your public or private health insurance will cover the costs during a personal consultation.
Where can I find digital diagnostics at an orthodontist's office in Cologne?
At our specialty practice JUST KFO Dr. Steinmaier & Associates, in Cologne-Rodenkirchen (Hauptstraße 50), we offer a full range of digital diagnostic services all under one roof. Simply schedule an appointment online or by phone—we’d be happy to advise you.
& Studies
Sources:
Patzelt, S.B.M., Emmanouilidi, A., Stampf, S., Strub, J.R., & Att, W., 2014. Accuracy of full-arch scans using intraoral scanners. Clinical Oral Investigations, 18(6), pp. 1687–1694. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00784-013-1132-y
- Goracci, C., Franchi, L., Vichi, A., & Ferrari, M. (2016). Accuracy, reliability, and efficiency of intraoral scanners for full-arch impressions: a systematic review of the clinical evidence. European Journal of Orthodontics, 38(4), 422–428. https://doi.org/10.1093/ejo/cjv077
- Scarfe, W. C., & Farman, A. G. (2008). What is cone-beam CT and how does it work? Dental Clinics of North America, 52(4), 707–v. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cden.2008.05.005
- Pauwels, R., Beinsberger, J., Collaert, B., Theodorakou, C., Rogers, J., Walker, A., Cockmartin, L., Bosmans, H., Jacobs, R., Bogaerts, R., Horner, K., & SEDENTEXCT Project Consortium (2012). Effective dose range for dental cone beam computed tomography scanners. European Journal of Radiology, 81(2), 267–271. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ejrad.2010.11.028
- Talmaceanu, D., Bolog, N., Leucuta, D., Tig, I. A., & Buduru, S. (2022). Diagnostic use of computerized axiography in TMJ disc displacements. Experimental and Therapeutic Medicine, 23(3), 213. https://doi.org/10.3892/etm.2022.11137
- Schiffman, E., Ohrbach, R., Truelove, E., Look, J., Anderson, G., Goulet, J. P., List, T., Svensson, P., Gonzalez, Y., Lobbezoo, F., Michelotti, A., Brooks, S. L., Ceusters, W., Drangsholt, M., Ettlin, D., Gaul, C., Goldberg, L. J., Haythornthwaite, J. A., Hollender, L., Jensen, R., … Orofacial Pain Special Interest Group, International Association for the Study of Pain (2014). Diagnostic Criteria for Temporomandibular Disorders (DC/TMD) for Clinical and Research Applications: recommendations of the International RDC/TMD Consortium Network* and Orofacial Pain Special Interest Group†. Journal of Oral & Facial Pain and Headache, 28(1), 6–27. https://doi.org/10.11607/jop.1151
- Dinesh, R. B., Arnitha, H. M., & Munshi, A. K. (2003). Malocclusion and the need for orthodontic treatment among individuals with disabilities in South Canara, India. International Dental Journal, 53(1), 13–18. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1875-595x.2003.tb00650.x
- Chochlidakis, K. M., Papaspyridakos, P., Geminiani, A., Chen, C. J., Feng, I. J., & Ercoli, C. (2016). Digital versus conventional impressions for fixed prosthodontics: A systematic review and meta-analysis. The Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry, 116(2), 184–190.e12. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prosdent.2015.12.017
- Ergül, T., Güleç, A., & Göymen, M. (2023). The Use of 3D Printers in Orthodontics – A Narrative Review. Turkish Journal of Orthodontics, 36(2), 134–142. https://doi.org/10.4274/TurkJOrthod.2022.2021.0074
- Hurt, A. J. (2012). Digital technology in the orthodontic laboratory. American Journal of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics: Official Publication of the American Association of Orthodontists, Its Constituent Societies, and the American Board of Orthodontics, 141(2), 245–247. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ajodo.2011.06.045
- Yuzbasioglu, E., Kurt, H., Turunc, R., & Bilir, H. (2014). Comparison of digital and conventional impression techniques: evaluation of patients’ perceptions, treatment comfort, effectiveness, and clinical outcomes. BMC Oral Health, 14, 10. https://doi.org/10.1186/1472-6831-14-10
- Christopoulou, I., Kaklamanos, E. G., Makrygiannakis, M. A., Bitsanis, I., Perlea, P., & Tsolakis, A. I. (2022). Intraoral Scanners in Orthodontics: A Critical Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 19(3), 1407. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19031407
- Badiali, G., Costabile, E., Lovero, E., Pironi, M., Rucci, P., Marchetti, C., & Bianchi, A. (2019). Virtual Orthodontic Surgical Planning to Improve the Accuracy of the Surgery-First Approach: A Prospective Evaluation. Journal of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: Official Journal of the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, 77(10), 2104–2115. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.joms.2019.04.017
- Francisco, I., Ribeiro, M. P., Marques, F., Travassos, R., Nunes, C., Pereira, F., Caramelo, F., Paula, A. B., & Vale, F. (2022). Application of Three-Dimensional Digital Technology in Orthodontics: The State of the Art. Biomimetics (Basel, Switzerland), 7(1), 23. https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics7010023
- Goob, J., Prandtner, O., Schweiger, J., Güth, J. F., & Edelhoff, D. (2023). Digital jaw relation recording to evaluate a new vertical dimension of occlusion using CAD/CAM-fabricated tooth-colored splints: a case report. International Journal of Computerized Dentistry, 26(4), 347–363. https://doi.org/10.3290/j.ijcd.b3960939
- Schupp, W., Haubrich, J., & Neumann, I. (2010). Treatment of anterior open bite with the Invisalign . Journal of Clinical Orthodontics: JCO, 44(8), 501–507.
- Ender, A., & Mehl, A. (2011). Full-arch scans: conventional versus digital impressions—an in vitro study. International Journal of Computerized Dentistry, 14(1), 11–21.
Professional publications by our practice on the topic
The Virtual Articulator in Aligner OrthodonticsView publication →The Virtual Articulator (2025)Go to the publication →Questions about digital diagnostics?
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