Digital Diagnostics & Jaw Joint Measurement in Cologne
Intraoral scanner, 3D X-ray (CBCT) and digital jaw joint measurement: in Cologne we record teeth, jaws and joints precisely, with low radiation and without unpleasant impressions – the basis for every safe treatment.
Every successful treatment begins with a precise examination. At our practice in Cologne we consistently rely on digital diagnostics: a low-contact intraoral scan instead of an impression, low-radiation 3D X-ray (CBCT), digital jaw joint measurement (DMD system) and in-house 3D printing – for the highest accuracy with maximum comfort.
A successful treatment in orthodontics, in temporomandibular disorder (TMD, often called TMJ) therapy and in sleep apnea therapy always begins with a thorough examination and precise diagnostics. At our orthodontic practice in Cologne-Rodenkirchen we consistently use modern digital procedures – from the intraoral scanner and 3D X-ray (CBCT) to digital jaw joint measurement. This spares you unpleasant impressions and at the same time creates an exact basis for planning your individual treatment.
Modern digital diagnostics: an overview of our technology
- Intraoral scan instead of impression
- Digital X-ray image instead of film development
- High-resolution 3D X-ray unit (CBCT)
- Digital jaw 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, the teeth are recorded digitally with the intraoral scanner – a fast 3D scan replaces the classic dental impression.1
For our patients this means:
- no gagging
- no residue from impression material
- direct display of tooth and jaw position
- the highest precision
- an environmentally friendly procedure
3D X-ray (CBCT) at the orthodontist
With conventional 2D X-rays, teeth and jaws, joints and sinuses are shown completely, but with blurring and overlapping structures. As a result, they provide little meaningful information about specific details.
The CBCT therefore offers you as a patient the following advantages:
- three-dimensional, digital images of all structures (teeth, jaws, temporomandibular joints, soft tissue, paranasal sinuses, etc.)
- excellent image quality
- considerably lower radiation exposure compared with a conventional CT scan
- Environmentally friendly, as the digital technology means that X-ray film and film-developing chemicals are no longer needed at all
Digital jaw joint measurement (DMD system)
Using digital temporomandibular joint measurement (DMD system), we measure the movements of the lower jaw and the spaces of the temporomandibular joint at a 1:1 ratio. This 3D jaw measurement is among the precise methods of functional diagnostics.
For your treatment, this means:
- Occlusal splints are made to match your individual path of jaw movement
- Orthodontic planning is based on the physiological situation of your joints
- Signs of a temporomandibular joint disorder can be detected early and monitored over time
This makes the movement of the joint measurable rather than merely palpable. These measurement data form the basis for successful TMD pain therapy and the fabrication of precisely fitted occlusal splints.
In-house 3D printing
Our aligners and our occlusal splints are Made in Germany – in fact, Made in Köln Rodenkirchen. Our in-house laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art 3D printers, allowing us to work quickly, precisely and reproducibly.
We can provide your aligners, bite splints, braces and more without delay, because we do not depend on outside providers. If there is ever a problem, we take care of it right away so that you receive a replacement as quickly as possible.
Frequently asked questions about digital diagnostics
Tap a question to open the answer.
What does digital diagnostics mean in orthodontics?
Digital diagnostics means that we record your teeth, jaws and temporomandibular joints using modern digital devices – for example the intraoral scanner, 3D X-ray imaging (cone beam CT) and digital jaw joint measurement. The result is a precise three-dimensional image of the situation in your mouth and jaws, which forms the basis for accurate and reliable treatment planning.
Does a digital dental impression with the intraoral scanner hurt?
No. The intraoral scanner records your teeth with a small camera and barely touches them. Unlike a conventional impression taken with impression material, there is no gagging and no material left behind – the scan is comfortable, quick and can be repeated at any time.
How high is the radiation exposure with 3D X-ray imaging (cone beam CT)?
Significantly lower than with a conventional CT — but higher than with a standard panoramic radiograph. For context: A single dental X-ray is approximately 0.01 millisieverts, roughly one two-hundredth of the natural radiation exposure of approximately 2.1 millisieverts you are exposed to each year in Germany anyway. The dose of a three-dimensional scan is three to forty times higher, depending on the device and scan area. That is why we use the DVT only when there is a clear clinical question that cannot be answered two-dimensionally.
What is digital jaw joint measurement (DMD system) used for?
With the DMD system, we measure the movements of the lower jaw and the spaces within the temporomandibular joint at a 1:1 ratio. This makes it possible to identify functional disorders at an early stage, to base orthodontic planning on your actual joint situation and to fabricate individual occlusal splints – which also matters for TMDtreatment.
What does digital jaw joint measurement cost – and does health insurance pay for it?
Instrumental functional analysis and temporomandibular joint measurement with the DMD system are not covered by statutory health insurance; they are billed privately according to the fee schedule for dentists. What applies in your case depends on the scope of the examination — you will receive the amount in writing before the examination. Private insurance and supplementary plans participate depending on the contract; only your insurance company can provide binding information.
Where can I find digital diagnostics at an orthodontist in Cologne?
At our orthodontic practice JUST KFO – Dr. Steinmaier & Kollegen in Köln-Rodenkirchen (Hauptstraße 50), we use the entire range of digital diagnostics under one roof. Simply book an appointment online or by phone – we are happy to advise you.
Sources & 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), S.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
- 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‘ perception, 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 system. 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.
Publications by our practice on this topic
The Virtual Articulator in Aligner OrthodonticsTo the publication →The Virtual Articulator (2025)To the publication →Digital Diagnostics in Cologne – Directions
You're interested in Digital Diagnostics in Cologne? Our orthodontic practice is located in southern Cologne – easily accessible from all parts of the city, with our own in-house master dental laboratory.
Reviewed by Dr. med. dent. Julia Steinmaier, specialist in orthodontics · Last reviewed on August 28, 2026
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