Advancements in dental technology have brought about many new tools that make it easier for dentists and more comfortable for patients. Dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), a new type of X-ray equipment, allows dentists to see a clear, detailed, three-dimensional image of the mouth without causing pain to the patient. This 3D imaging system takes full photos of the teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways, and bones in a single scan.
Cone beam dental scans are available at Oak Tree Dental in Poway and the surrounding area. Our staff can help you learn more about the procedure you are undergoing and answer any questions you have about 3D imaging. Call us at (858) 748-2101 to schedule a consultation appointment today.
What to expect from the procedure
During a 3D dental scan, the patient must rest their chin on a platform and tilt their head forward against a frame so that they can remain stationary. The patient may also wear a lead apron shield. Then, an X-ray arm will make a rotation around the patient's head, collecting 2D images via a cone beam. The computer will instantly reconstruct these images into a 3D visualization that the dentist can review. The entire process is non-invasive and will generally take less than half a minute.
“These images will be instantly reconstructed into a 3D visualization that the dentist can review.”
Differences between traditional and cone beam
Traditional CT scanners and cone beam CT scanners both undertake the same basic function, but technical differences set them apart.
Traditional CT scans
A traditional CT scan takes several pictures of internal body structures from multiple X-ray images generated by a computer. Atlantis, a radiology equipment company, explains, "The x-rays utilize radiation from a radioactive contrast injected into the body to create cross-sectional images." Traditional CT scans can offer a variety of benefits, primarily for surgeries and diagnostics.
Cone beam CT scans
Cone beam scanners use a cone-shaped beam radiating from an X-ray source, covering a wide range with just a single rotation around the patient's head. The X-rays are compiled using a series of algorithms to furnish high-resolution 3D images. Cone beams use a fan beam, as opposed to a light beam, and emit 200-300 times less radiation.
“The X-rays are compiled using a series of algorithms to furnish high-resolution 3D images.”
What a cone beam image reveals
Cone beam CT scanners reveal far more information than traditional scanners and provide detailed images of a patient's underlying bone structure. Cone beams are primarily used for cases in which traditional X-rays would not provide sufficient information needed for treatments, specifically surgeries and underlying disease. They can evaluate diseases of the jaw, dentition, body structures of the face, nasal cavity, and sinuses.
Cone beam technology has also been useful for diagnosing oral cancers and cysts and managing impacted teeth. A study on cone beam technology found that there has been a "significant contribution of CBCT in the planning and successful surgical management of dentigerous cysts and associated impacted teeth." Since cone beams take wide range photos, they capture in-depth areas that traditional scanners can easily miss.
“They can evaluate diseases of the jaw, dentition, body structures of the face, nasal cavity, and sinuses.”
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The cone beam scan is painless and does not require anesthesia, allowing patients to resume normal activity right after their examination. Although the machine does not cause any pain, claustrophobic should inform their dental practitioner to better accommodate them.
After the exam, the dentist will write a report of the scan results. We will discuss the curated treatment plan with the patient, answering any questions they may have. The patient will be able to see their 3D images and follow the dentist as they move through the treatment plan, pointing at the treatment areas. Preferences for treatments, anesthetics, and medications will also be discussed to fast-track future visits.
“The patient will be able to see their 3D images and follow the dentist as they move through the treatment plan, pointing at the treatment areas.”
Questions answered on this page
Q. What is the difference between traditional and cone beam scanners?
Q. What can a cone beam scan reveal about a patient?
Q. What to expect from the 3D cone beam procedure?
People also ask
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Frequently asked questions about 3D cone beam scans
Not very long. A 3D dental scan comprises one rotation of a mechanical arm around your head. After you are positioned, the scan itself usually takes less than 30 seconds.
According to the FDA, CBCT technology has been in use for twenty years. Dental scans are becoming more common every day because of their helpfulness in planning for procedures and diagnosing complex conditions.
A 3D dental scanner is considered a computed tomography (CT) scan. Still, it emits less radiation than other conventional CT scans that are commonly used in medicine. However, a CBCT scan does emit more radiation than traditional dental x-rays.
Patients are often impressed to see a three-dimensional image of their own maxillofacial region. When the dentist can show a patient how a procedure works on their actual mouth and jaw, it helps them have a deeper understanding of the work. Then, patients are more comfortable with the procedure and even have an easier time explaining to others how it works.
- Diagnosing temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ)
- Diagnosing the origin of oral pain and disease
- Making a surgical plan for extracting impacted wisdom teeth
- Planing dental reconstruction procedures
- The planning and placement of dental implants
Dental terminology
An anesthetic is a substance that reduces or removes sensation from the area of the body it is applied to.
A computerized tomography scan compiles multiple X-ray images taken from different angles to create cross-sectional images of the internal anatomy.
A dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a special type of X-ray equipment that reconstructs a 3D image of the patient’s anatomy.
A dentist, also known as a dental surgeon, is a doctor who specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of diseases and conditions of the oral cavity.
Learn more about 3D scans today
If you are looking for more information pertaining to complete health dentistry or the use of 3D cone beams or 3D dental scans, call us at 858-748-2101.
Individual results vary. How long a treatment lasts, and how it looks and feels, depends on each patient.