Basel, 23 November 2016: Straumann has entered a partnership with maxon motor to develop ceramic components for dental implant systems that are produced by injection moulding instead of conventional cutting techniques.

The partnership includes a joint venture company, maxon dental GmbH based near Freiburg, in Germany, which will develop and produce CIM components for Straumann. Under the terms of the agreement, Straumann will obtain a 49% stake in maxon dental GmbH – subject to approval by the German Federal Cartel Office – and has an option to increase its equity stake to full ownership in 2026. Financial terms were not disclosed.

maxon motor has 20 years’ experience in CIM for mechanical precision parts. During the past 10 years, maxon motor has broadened the application of its CIM technology to include dental implants and owns various patent applications and patents. The partnership provides Straumann with access to this exciting technology and corresponding expertise.

Marco Gadola, CEO of Straumann commented: ‘There are few – if any – technology providers in the world that can equal maxon motor with regard to innovation, expertise and reliability in CIM. Combining our strengths in dentistry with their technology leadership, the initial goal of our joint venture is to make ceramic implant treatments easier for dentists and more affordable for patients who want highly esthetic, metal-free solutions. We expect to launch our first CIM components in the near term – providing that the outcome of laboratory and clinical programs and regulatory applications are favourable’.

About maxon motor

Headquartered in Sachseln, Switzerland, maxon motor develops and manufactures compact electric drive systems for applications requiring high precision and reliability. maxon motor is a worldwide leader for small DC drive systems, which are used in insulin and cardiac pumps, surgical power tools as well as humanoid robots, passenger aircraft and spacecraft. Continually striving for innovation, maxon motor pioneered the use of high strength, low wear injection molded zirconia components in miniature gear and shaft assemblies some 20 years ago.  

About Straumann

Headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, Straumann (SIX: STMN) is a global leader in implant, restorative and regenerative dentistry. In collaboration with leading clinics, research institutes and universities, Straumann researches, develops and manufactures dental implants, instruments, prosthetics and biomaterials for use in tooth replacement and restoration solutions or to prevent tooth loss. Straumann currently employs approximately 3600 people worldwide and its products and services are available in more than 100 countries through its broad network of distribution subsidiaries and partners.