You have probably had dental x-rays at the dentist’s office during dental exams or a diagnosis. Traditional x-rays are useful but are not commonly used in most practices.
Instead, dentists use a more straightforward and effective method of capturing dental health information. Continue reading to learn about CBCT scans and their uses in dentistry.
What Is a CBCT Scan?
CBCT stands for Cone-Beam Computed Tomography. It is a system that dentists use to capture data concerning the mouth, jaw, teeth, neck, ears, nose, and throat.
CBCT scans use less radiation and are more precise and effective than traditional x-rays. It is because fewer scans are needed to see various views and angles of your mouth.
A dental CBCT scan allows the dentist to evaluate the underlying bone structure. It also enables them to examine nerve pathways and surrounding soft tissues.
The experience when getting these scans is comfortable and quick. You must sit still while the imaging machine slowly rotates around your head. The dentist takes about a minute to capture 150-200 images.
What Does the Dentist Use CBCT For?
The dentist may recommend CBCT scans while diagnosing and treating dental health issues. For example, they will require scans when considering dental implant surgery.
The 3D images help the dentist measure the available jawbone and determine the location of the maxillary sinus. In addition, they help with implant planning for successful integration.
The dentist also uses cone-beam scans before a bone grafting procedure. These images help them reduce the risk of harming the sinuses or nerves during the grafting.
In addition, your dentist will require CBCT scans to investigate issues with the TMJ. They help determine the cause of the pain and create a suitable treatment plan.
The dentist may also use the scan to determine various dental issues. These include bone loss, tooth decay, impacted teeth, and periodontal and dental pulp infections.
In addition, a dental professional may use CBCT scans to detect lesions that indicate serious disease. The scans also help measure and treat various tumors in the facial area.
They may also need the scan in orthodontics to design perfectly fitting dental prosthetics. In addition, your dentist may use 3D images to determine the bone structure and tooth orientation.
This ensures your teeth are properly aligned for an amazing smile. The cone-beam CT scans also improve treatment planning and increase the success rate in endodontics.
What to Expect During a CBCT Scan
Once you schedule a dental CBCT scan near you, no special preparation is needed. However, you must inform the dentist if you are pregnant.
Although the machine emits little radiation, it may harm the unborn baby. The initial setup takes several minutes, but the scan is less than a minute. This process is completely painless and needs no sedation.
Here is what to expect during your session for a cone-beam CT scan.
- The Park Ridge dentist will request you to remove any hearing aids, glasses, jewelry, and metal hair accessories.
- Removable dental work is removed for the scan as it may interfere with the imaging.
- They will direct you to sit or stand still in the middle of the machine. The expert may use straps to hold your head in the right position and keep your head from moving.
- The dentist will give you a piece of plastic to bite on gently. It is used to position your teeth properly for the images.
- Finally, the machine will move above your head, taking panoramic x-rays.
What Other Conditions or Diseases Can a Dental CBCT Scan Help Diagnose?
- They evaluate sinuses, nerve canals, and nasal cavities.
- The scans are used for cleft palate assessment
- They are used in the diagnosis and treatment of cervix, prostate, lung, head, and neck cancer
- They are also useful in diagnosing pancreatic, central nervous system, and gastrointestinal tract cancers.
- The method is also applied in forensic dentistry.
Contact us at Complete Health Dentistry of Park Ridge for more accurate diagnosis and treatment of various dental health issues. We utilize the CBCT imaging device during diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.
As a result, we ensure you receive appropriate treatment and recover without complications. Contact us for quality dental care using the latest imaging devices.
