Cone BeamWhen you need dental x-rays, 3D cone beam tomography (CT) is a new technology that has transformed the way Precision Dental Specialties gathers information about your oral health. When compared to traditional x-ray methods, this groundbreaking technology offers a much better clinical experience for our patients. This is because 3D cone beam x-rays can help us diagnose and treat various dental issues more quickly and easily. From impacted teeth and dental trauma, to dental implants and TMJ problems, 3D cone beam imaging has revolutionized the way we view and interpret essential information. What Is a 3D Dental Cone Beam CT?Dental cone beam CT, also known as cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), is a dental x-ray machine that takes panoramic 3D images of your teeth, gums, soft tissues, and nerve pathways in one scan. This helps us immensely in diagnosing problem areas more accurately and efficiently. What Are the Uses of 3D Cone Beam X-Rays?3D cone beam imaging not only allows us to provide a quicker and more accurate diagnosis, it also helps us better prepare for numerous dental procedures. These include the placement of dental implants, tooth extractions, sleep apnea treatment, and certain reconstructive and cosmetic procedures. In addition, 3D cone beam x-rays help us to detect temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), sinus and nasal cavity issues, tumors of the jaw, abnormalities in bone structure and tooth orientation, and locations of tooth and mouth pain. 3D Cone Beam X-Rays vs Traditional Dental X-RaysCompared to traditional dental x-rays, cone beam imaging is much less invasive and more comfortable for patients. The beam on the machine is accurately focused, reducing scatter radiation and allowing us to get better images of your teeth and mouth. This makes it possible to see your facial and oral anatomy more clearly, while offering lower doses of radiation compared to conventional x-rays. Benefits of Cone Beam 3D ImagingThere are a variety of reasons that we are excited to offer 3D cone beam CT in our office. In addition to higher quality images and reduced radiation exposure, this technology allows us to get more information in a single scan. One scan can produce numerous angles and views to allow for better diagnoses. These improved images also allow us to see both soft tissues and bone at the same time. All of this makes for completion of scanning in seconds flat, as well as making treatment planning more precise. What Can You Expect from a 3D Cone Beam Imaging Scan?Simply put, you can expect a 3D cone beam scan to be non-invasive, quick, and painless. We can usually complete a 3D panoramic scan in about 15 seconds from start to finish. You will stand so that you're positioned properly and stay as still as possible while holding the machine’s handles to stabilize yourself. During the scan, we will ask you to bite down on a small, sterile, supportive mouthpiece to reduce any movement. Then, the scanner will revolve around your head to get a variety of images, and the process is done. It’s important to note that while cone beam imaging exposes patients to very low doses of radiation, children are much more sensitive and should only be scanned when it is absolutely necessary for diagnosis and treatment. In addition, always inform us if you are pregnant prior to a dental CT. If you think you would benefit from 3D cone beam imaging, Precision Dental Specialties is here to help. Give us a call at 435-522-5629 so our expert staff can answer any and all of your questions. |