Eighteeth (owned by Sifary group) has announced its acquisition of ZHEAN Healthcare, a developer of oral digitalization equipment and AI diagnostic software.
ZHEAN was founded in 2019 and is known for its intraoral scanner- the HELIOS 500 - which can be used for dental restorations, orthodontics, and implants. An example of a scan with the HELIOS 500 can be seen below.
Eighteeth is a popular distributor of many dental products (in particular in endodontics) and intraoral scanners already, such as the HELIOS 600. Now with this aqusition, the company is moving from just distribution to actually making these scanners.
The acquisition will allow Eighteeth to develop an ecosystem of connected digital dental products built around the scanner. ZHEAN's technology will also give Eighteeth expertise in areas like AI diagnostics.
According to Eighteeth’s press release, Eighteeth will leverage ZHEAN's scanner and software capabilities to build an integrated digital platform, eliminate barriers between digital equipment, and improve diagnosis and treatment.
The companies aim to quickly expand their intraoral scanner products globally under Eighteeth's brand.
The announcement represents a strategic move by Eighteeth to acquire technology and talent to advance its digital dentistry offerings. It is the first time I hear of a distrubtor out-right buying out a scanner company. Very interesting moves for the future of the scanner.
I have personally tested the HELIOS 600 and will be reviewing the HELIOS 500 soon. The HELIOS 500 will be one of the most affordable intraoral scanners on the market. The company says it will be priced at 5000-6000 USD based on region.
Have you used the HELIOS scanners? Leave your comments below with your feedback about them.