OnyxCeph³ is orthodontic imaging and planning software from Image Instruments GmbH in Chemnitz, Germany. It manages 2D and 3D patient images, performs cephalometric and model analyses, and plans 3D treatments such as digital setups, aligners, retainers and indirect bonding trays. Orthodontists, orthodontic labs and university departments use it on a Windows client/server network. A typical “OnyxCeph download” starts as an unactivated install that runs in a limited trial mode.
OnyxCeph³ is commercial software. This page covers the current release, the program versions, the trial and training licences, and real orthodontic workflows.
OnyxCeph³ at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Latest version | 3.2.244 “Spike” (released 27 March 2026) |
| Licence | Shareware (conditionally free): commercial software; an unactivated install runs in trial mode (up to 10 patients and/or 150 images); test, workshop and EDU licences exist |
| Platforms | Windows 10/11 and Windows Server; macOS only via Boot Camp |
| Developer | Image Instruments GmbH, Chemnitz, Germany |
| Official website | onyxceph.eu |
| Best for | Orthodontic practices, ortho labs and universities that need 2D/3D analysis and in-house setups |
What it does
- Stores and organises 2D photos, X-rays and 3D data (model scans, face scans, CBCT-based data) per patient in a database.
- Digitizes landmarks for cephalometric and model analyses, with a large set of analysis templates.
- Compares images and time points and simulates treatment outcomes in 2D, including a Ricketts V.T.O.
- Segments 3D dental models into individual teeth and gingiva.
- Builds virtual setups (V.T.O.3D) and staging for aligners, then creates aligner and retainer models for printing.
- Plans bracket positions and creates indirect bonding trays and jigs, including wire bonding.
- Offers further 3D modules such as Smile 3D, bite splints and TAD planning (TADmatch).
- Exchanges cases between practices and labs through data containers.
How dental teams use it
Cephalometric analysis for a new patient
- Create the patient and import the lateral ceph and photos.
- Open the Digitize module, choose an analysis and place the landmarks.
- Review the measurements and print or export the result for the consultation.
In-house aligner setup
- Import upper and lower intraoral scans and segment the teeth.
- Move teeth in V.T.O.3D to the target position and check the stages.
- Use the Aligner module to export stage models for 3D printing and thermoforming.
Indirect bonding
Place virtual brackets on the segmented model, adjust their positions and generate a bonding tray or jigs to transfer the plan to the patient.
Teaching and courses
Universities use the EDU licence on training servers with anonymised data; workshop participants receive a temporary single-user training licence from the course organiser.
Install and first run
- Request a download link for the setup and manual on the official OnyxCeph website.
- Unzip the archive and run OnyxCDMenu.exe: install the database server first, then the workstation client.
- Start OnyxCeph³. Without activation it runs in trial mode for evaluation.
- To activate, open Options › Register (OnyxRegister), enter your practice data and the activation code from Image Instruments or your distributor.
Requirements from the developer: an Intel i7-class CPU, at least 8 GB RAM, 60 GB free space, an NVIDIA GPU with 1 GB and OpenGL 3.1 for 3D work, and a 1920×1080 display. Multi-user setups need a local gigabit network; VPN and cloud setups are not supported. A mouse with a wheel is essential.
Limitations
- Trial, test and training licences are for familiarisation only and may not be used to treat patients.
- Windows only; on a Mac it needs Windows through Boot Camp, and Parallels is not supported.
- Many 3D functions are optional modules activated on request; the LAB version adds V.T.O.3D.
- The developer states that the software does not make treatment decisions and is not a PACS; its CE labelling refers to the measurement functions of the Digitize module.
- The learning curve is steep; formal training is recommended.
OnyxCeph³ vs alternatives
Dolphin Imaging is the main competitor for cephalometric imaging and case presentation in the US. NemoStudio covers 2D/3D orthodontic and surgical planning. For aligner setups only, ArchForm is a lighter cloud-connected option. OnyxCeph³ stands out for its broad module list and its PRO/LAB split for practices and labs.
FAQ
Is there an OnyxCeph trial version?
Yes. Every installation that has not been activated runs in trial mode, limited to 10 patients and/or 150 images. Prospective buyers can also ask for a one-time test licence.
What is the latest OnyxCeph version?
The current release is OnyxCeph³ 3.2.244, released on 27 March 2026. The program shows an update button when a new release is available.
What are the OnyxCeph system requirements?
Windows 10 or 11 (or Windows Server), an i7-class CPU, 8 GB RAM, 60 GB of free space and an NVIDIA GPU for 3D modules. Clients connect to the server over a local network.
How do I download OnyxCeph?
Request the setup and manual download link on the official OnyxCeph website, then install the server and client.
Does OnyxCeph do aligners?
Yes. The Aligner module, together with segmentation and V.T.O.3D, creates staged models for in-house aligner production.
Is there OnyxCeph training?
Yes. Workshops use free temporary training licences, and universities can use the EDU licence. Documentation is on the official OnyxCeph wiki.
Does OnyxCeph run on a Mac?
Only through Windows installed with Boot Camp. Virtual Windows in Parallels is not supported.
Last checked against official sources: 7 October 2026 (developer website: onyxceph.eu). Versions and licence terms change — confirm on the developer's site before deploying in a clinic.
