3M to Acquire IMTEC: Implications?

3M announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire IMTEC Corp., a manufacturer of dental implants and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanning equipment. This acquisition gives 3M ESPE access to two of the fastest growing segments in the dental industry, mini dental implants and cone beam ct. Mini implants are increasingly becoming popular for orthodontic anchorage. What are the implications of this acquisition for the overall cone beam ct and mini implant market?

“Our combined digital products and expertise will enable a digital ‘total restorative’ approach with more options than ever, including IMTEC implants, 3MTM ESPETM LavaTM crowns, and 3M’s advanced digital workflow solutions,” said Jeffrey Lavers, vice president and general manager, 3M ESPE. “Together, we will have an end-to-end implantology solution, making the process easier, faster and better for dentists everywhere.”

IMTEC is best known for its mini dental implants, which are small-diameter, single-unit dental implants that don’t require invasive surgery so bone trauma is minimal and patient discomfort is limited. Mini dental implants are primarily used for denture fixation, but are also appropriate for orthodontic anchorage.