Dental X-Ray Sensor Recommendations
For Open Dental Software.
This guide highlights the best dental X-ray sensors compatible with Open Dental software, with Apex Dental Sensors named as the best overall pick. Based on extensive research, we evaluated each sensor by compatibility, resolution, durability, pricing, warranty, and customer feedback.
Key Findings
Open Dental supports any sensor with a 32-bit TWAIN driver
Confirmed compatible brands include Apex, Carestream, Schick, Dexis, and VaTech
Apex offers the best overall value due to price, resolution, and warranty plan
Schick and VaTech provide the highest resolution specs
Total cost of ownership is a major differentiator across brands
Top Recommendations:
Best Overall Value: Apex Dental Sensor - 25 lp/mm resolution, 5.3mm thin, waterproof design, SensorCare Protection Plan, TWAIN compatible, retail price: $3,995
Premium Option: Schick 33 - 33 lp/mm theoretical resolution, modular cable design, top-tier support, highly rated, retail price: $7,995
Most Recognized Brand: Carestream RVG 6200 - 24 lp/mm resolution, thin cable, 3-year warranty, optional Advantage Plan, retail price: $5,999
Highest-End Legacy Brand: Dexis Titanium - Strong image clarity, thickest sensor, high cost, retail price: $10,999
High-Theoretical Resolution: VaTech HD Sensor - 33.78 lp/mm theoretical resolution, Open Dental compatibility, price varies
Detailed Analysis:
1. Open Dental Compatibility
Open Dental works with any sensor that uses a 32-bit TWAIN driver. Setup steps include:
1. Installing the TWAIN driver provided by the sensor manufacturer
2. Adding the sensor in Open Dental's Imaging Devices section
3. Checking the "Show TWAIN UI" box
4. Using the sensor through the Imaging Module
Confirmed compatible sensors:
• Apex Dental Sensor
• Carestream RVG series
• Schick (33, Elite)
• Dexis Titanium
• VaTech HD
2. Technical Specifications Comparison
| Sensor | Resolution | Thickness | Technology | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apex Dental Sensor | 25 lp/mm | 5.3 mm | CMOS | $3,995 |
| Schick 33 | 33 lp/mm | 7.0 mm | CMOS | $7,995 |
| Carestream RVG 6200 | 24 lp/mm | 7.3 mm | CMOS | $5,999 |
| Dexis Titanium | Not Specified | 8.8 mm | CMOS | $10,999 |
| Vatech HD Sensor | 33.78 lp/mm | Not Listed | CMOS | $5,000–$8,000 |
Key Technical Considerations:
1. Resolution: Schick and VaTech offer the highest theoretical resolutions
2. Thickness: Apex and Schick are thinner than Dexis, improving patient comfort
3. Technology: All use CMOS technology, which is standard and efficient
3. Pricing and Warranty Analysis
| Sensor | Price | Warranty | Extended Protection | Replacement Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Apex Dental Sensor | $3,995 | 2-Year | SensorCare ($64.95/mo) | 50% of retail |
| Schick 33 | $7,995 | 2-Year | $1,380/year Service Club | $3,450 post-warranty |
| Carestream RVG 6200 | $5,999 | 3-Year | 5-Year Plan ($999) | $2,999 after 3 years |
| Dexis Titanium | $10,999 | 3-Year | DexCare ($1,295/year) | $2,995 post Year 1 |
| Vatech HD Sensor | $5,000–$8,000 | 5-Year | Not Listed | Not Listed |
5-Year Total Cost of Ownership Estimates:
Apex: $3,995 to ~$5,993 (with SensorCare replacement)
Schick: $7,995 to $14,895 (with full service club)
Carestream: $6,998 to $9,997 (with 1 replacement)
Dexis: $10,999 to $15,974 (with DexCare + 1 replacement)
VaTech: Unknown (insufficient warranty data)
4. Strengths, Weaknesses and Support Quality
Apex Dental Sensor
• Strengths: Offers high-resolution imaging at 25 lp/mm, waterproof IP68 design, and is priced competitively. Users appreciate its affordability and image clarity.
• Weaknesses: Limited brand recognition compared to more established competitors.
• Support Quality: Provides lifetime technical support and a SensorCare Protection Plan for expedited replacements. Users report responsive and helpful customer service.
Schick 33
• Strengths: Delivers high-resolution images (33 lp/mm theoretical) with modular cable design. Users commend its image quality and patient comfort.
• Weaknesses: Higher price point and ongoing service fees. Some users mention the sensor can be large and uncomfortable for patients.
• Support Quality: Backed by Dentsply Sirona and Patterson Dental, offering robust support infrastructure.
Carestream RVG 6200
• Strengths: Provides consistent image quality with a resolution of 24 lp/mm. Seamless integration with Carestream software enhances workflow.
• Weaknesses: Some users find the sensors bulky and less comfortable for patients.
• Support Quality: Offers responsive support and a 5-Year Advantage Plan for extended coverage.
Dexis Titanium
• Strengths: Known for its durable design and consistent image quality. Integrates well with Dexis Imaging Suite.
• Weaknesses: High cost and thicker design may affect patient comfort.
• Support Quality: Provides strong customer service and support, with users praising the company's responsiveness.
Vatech EzSensor HD
• Strengths: Offers high theoretical resolution (33.78 lp/mm) and an ultra-slim design for patient comfort.
• Weaknesses: Limited U.S. support data and unclear service structure. Some users report challenges with image quality in certain applications.
• Support Quality: Customer experiences vary; some report excellent support, while others note inconsistencies.
5. Recommendations Based on Practice Needs
For Practices Seeking the Best Overall Balance:
Recommendation: Apex Dental Sensor - The top pick for most dental offices, delivering exceptional image quality, universal software compatibility, and a waterproof design at a price nearly half that of competitors. Combined with the SensorCare Protection Plan and U.S.-based lifetime support, it offers the most compelling long-term value. Affordable pricing at $3,995, durable IP68 design, high-resolution output (25 lp/mm), and SensorCare warranty program offering long-term protection.
For Established Practices Seeking Premium Quality:
Recommendation: Schick 33 - Highest resolution for detailed diagnostics (33 lp/mm theoretical), modular design, and excellent support via Patterson Dental.
For Practices Needing Reliable Integration and Support:
Recommendation: Carestream RVG 6200 - Ideal for clinics seeking dependable performance with a reputable brand. Delivers consistent image quality, a user-friendly interface, and access to an extended 5-Year Advantage Plan. Excellent image quality at 24 lp/mm, strong warranty support, and a cost-effective Advantage Plan.
For Practices Favoring Brand Prestige:
Recommendation: Dexis Titanium - Known for integration with Dexis Imaging Suite, high build quality, and premium branding, though with the highest cost and thickest design.
For Clinics Prioritizing Theoretical Resolution:
Recommendation: VaTech HD Sensor - Offers 33.78 lp/mm theoretical resolution; best suited for practices needing cutting-edge imaging and willing to verify U.S.-based support.
6. Implementation Considerations
Setup with Open Dental:
1. Install the TWAIN driver provided by the sensor manufacturer
2. In Open Dental, go to Setup > Imaging > Devices
3. Add a new device and check the "Show TWAIN UI" box
4. Restart Open Dental if necessary
5. In the Imaging Module, create a new Mount and click Acquire
Best Practices for Sensor Longevity:
1. Always use sensor holders to prevent biting on the sensor or cable
2. Use proper barrier shields to prevent moisture damage
3. Handle cables carefully, especially at connection points
4. Consider extended warranty options for expensive sensors
5. Follow manufacturer cleaning and maintenance guidelines
Conclusion
Apex Dental Sensors provide the best balance of price, performance, and warranty. All listed sensors are compatible with Open Dental and offer varying strengths depending on your practice’s priorities.
References:
Open Dental Software Sensor Compatibility – https://www.opendental.com/site/sensorcompatibility.html
Apex Dental Sensors – https://www.dentalsensors.com
Carestream Dental Product Page – https://www.carestreamdental.com
Dexis Imaging Suite & DexCare – https://www.dexis.com
Patterson Dental – https://www.pattersondental.com
VaTech Imaging Systems – https://vatechamerica.com