Dental firm trims losses and focuses on US growth

3D DIAGNOSTIC Imaging, the Dundee-based company behind a handheld tooth decay detector, trimmed losses in the first six months of its financial year as it continues to press ahead with its overseas expansion plans.

Its CarieScan subsidiary, formed from the intellectual property developed by Aim-listed Idmos, which collapsed in 2008, said discussions over distribution agreements in North America were "well advanced".

In the six months to 31 December, the company made a pre-tax loss of 478,000 compared with a shortfall of 695,000 in the same period the previous year.

The company's cash balance rose to 566,000 from 15,000.

During the period the company raised 787,500 through a private placement of new shares, principally with existing investors, which include Scottish Enterprise.

James Noble, non-executive chairman of 3D Diagnostic Imaging, said negotiation of distribution agreements in North America would be the key focus for the next six months.

"Successful assessment of the CarieScan PRO device has already taken place in Canada, with discussions there well advanced," he said.

Last month, CarieScan announced that its device was to be trialled at two US dental schools. Nigel Pitts, professor of dental health at the University of Dundee, was also appointed chairman of a newly-formed scientific advisory board for the company. In November the company signed a UK distribution deal targeting dental practices.