When opening a new dental clinic, equipment budgets are limited. The intraoral scanner configuration should match the clinic's positioning and expected case mix.
Option 1: Entry-Level Setup (Budget $1,400 – $4,200)
Scanner: Chinese entry-level models (e.g., Bluenet, Bagya, Yusen, etc., around $1,400).
Computer: Upgrade existing office PC with a dedicated graphics card (NVIDIA T400 / RTX A1000, approx. $280).
Tips: 1–2 standard tips included.
Best for: Simple restorations (single crowns/bridges), orthodontic initial impressions, and routine cases with moderate accuracy requirements.
Limitations: Restricted full-arch accuracy, posterior accessibility, and software features. Complex implant and aesthetic cases should be outsourced.
Option 2: Intermediate Setup (Budget $5,600 – $11,100) - Recommended for Most New Clinics
Scanner: Mid-range Chinese models (Shining 3D Aoralscan 3, Fussen Linglong 5, Frequence PANDA P3) or Medit i600.
Computer: Dedicated workstation (i7 + 32 GB RAM + RTX 4060 / A1000, approx. $1,100 – $1,670).
Tips: 3–4 tips for rotation.
Calibration unit: Included.
Best for: General practices performing routine restorations, orthodontics, and simple implant cases. Accuracy and efficiency cover approximately 90% of daily clinical needs.
Highest cost-performance ratio - the most practical choice for the majority of new clinics.
Option 3: Professional Setup (Budget $13,900 – $27,800)
Scanner: Premium models such as 3Shape TRIOS 5, Medit i700 Wireless, iTero Lumina, or Shining 3D Aoralscan 3i Wireless.
Computer: High-performance workstation (i9 + 64 GB RAM + RTX 4070, approx. $2,100 – $2,800).
Tips: 4–6 tips, including mini tips.
Optional: Chairside 3D printer ($1,400 – $4,200).
Best for: Mid-to-high-end clinics focused on implants, orthodontics, and aesthetic restorations.
Note annual software/subscription fees (3Shape or iTero: $1,400 – $4,200 per year).
Option 4: Flagship Setup (Budget $27,800+)
Scanner & System: CEREC Primescan + MC X5 chairside system, full 3Shape implant-guide package, or photogrammetry solutions.
Chairside milling & sintering equipment: $13,900 – $41,700.
Best for: Same-day chairside restorations, complex implant cases, and high-end aesthetic dentistry.
Longer ROI period - requires sufficient case volume to justify the investment.
Recommendation for New Clinics
Start with Option 2. Use the first 3–6 months to evaluate actual case structure and scanner utilization, then upgrade only if needed. Avoid purchasing flagship equipment immediately - underutilized high-end systems often become expensive idle assets.
Supporting New Clinics with Aident Technology
Aident's AI-30 intraoral scanner offers an excellent balance of performance and value for growing practices: ultra-lightweight design (198 g), ≤10 μm accuracy, powder-free true-color scanning, mini-tip options, and open STL/PLY/OBJ export. It is well-suited for intermediate and professional workflows without the high annual fees of some premium brands. Combined with Aident 3D printers and resins, new clinics can build a complete, scalable digital pathway from day one.
Choose the right digital foundation for your new practice.
Contact Aident Technology for product details, configuration advice, or a customized quotation:
https://www.aident3d.com/inquiry
