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 rely entirely on digital diagnostics: minimal-contact intraoral scanning instead of impressions, 3D X-ray (CBCT) for targeted questions, digital jaw joint measurement (DMD system), and in-house 3D printing – for accurate findings with high 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
For basic orthodontic diagnostics, two-dimensional images such as panoramic radiographs and lateral cephalograms are usually sufficient. For certain questions, such as impacted teeth or bony changes in the temporomandibular joint, they reach their limits due to overlapping structures – in those cases, a CBCT can provide targeted assistance.
The CBCT therefore offers you as a patient the following advantages:
- three-dimensional, digital representation of teeth, jaw bone, the bony components of the temporomandibular joints, and the paranasal sinuses (the articular disc and soft tissue are shown by MRI if needed)
- 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 jaw joint measurement (DMD system), we record the movements of the lower jaw and the paths of the temporomandibular joints three-dimensionally. This 3D jaw measurement supplements the clinical functional diagnostics.
During the initial consultation, we examine the temporomandibular joint, chewing muscles, and dental contacts clinically and discuss the next steps with you. Functional analysis is part of every treatment plan in our practice. Digital jaw joint measurement using the DMD system is a separate appointment if the clinical findings indicate it is necessary.
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
- Changes in jaw movement can be documented as a supplement to the clinical examination and monitored over time
This makes the movement of the joint measurable rather than merely palpable. These measurement data flow into the planning of 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 normal panoramic radiograph. For context: A single dental X-ray is about 0.01 millisieverts, roughly one two-hundredth of the natural radiation exposure of an average 2.1 millisieverts per year that you are exposed to in Germany anyway. The dose of a three-dimensional scan is many times higher, depending on the device and field of view, and can exceed one hundred times that for large fields. That is why we use CBCT only when there is a clear question that cannot be answered two-dimensionally.
What is digital jaw joint measurement (DMD system) used for?
Using the DMD system, we measure the movements of the lower jaw and the paths of the temporomandibular joints three-dimensionally. The measurement supplements the clinical functional analysis: it documents movement patterns and their progression and provides individual values for orthodontic planning and the fabrication of occlusal splints – important for TMD therapy as well.
What does digital jaw joint measurement cost – and does health insurance pay for it?
Functional analysis — both clinical and instrumental — and jaw joint measurement using the DMD system are not covered by statutory health insurance; they are billed 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 health insurance and supplemental plans may contribute depending on the policy; only your insurance can provide definitive 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:
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- 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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi:10.4274/TurkJOrthod.2022.2021.0074
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- 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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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. doi: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.
Schupp, W., Funke, J., & Haubrich, J., 2020. Der digitale Workflow in der In-Office-Alignertherapie. Informationen aus Orthodontie & Kieferorthopädie, 52, S.289–300. doi:10.1055/a-1241-9967 · Summary
Schupp, W., Haubrich, J., & Funke, J., 2023. The virtual articulator in aligner orthodontics. Journal of Aligner Orthodontics, 7(4), S.267–283. Summary
Schupp, W., Haubrich, J., Klingberg, M., Boisserée, W., Sim, U., & Kim, H., 2023. Shape memory aligners: A new dimension in aligner orthodontics. Journal of Aligner Orthodontics, 7(2), S.113–127. Summary
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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