What is a dental CT scan?

The main difference between a dental CT scan and a standard dental x-ray is that the former provides us with a 3D image of your teeth. That means we can see all sides of your teeth, jawbone, and throat! Therefore, CT scans are fundamental for diagnosing various dental problems.

Who might need a dental CT scan?

A 3D scan can be achieved by determining these qualities:

  • Patients who want to get implants as well as bone grafting:
  • People who thought they needed a root canal but then discovered they had a complication or just wanted an evaluation before starting treatment
  • People who tend to have a hard time sleeping, snore, and may even be struggling with sleep apnea.

Why is it important?

  • Knowing the shape and size of the jaw helps us perform more precise surgeries.
  • Looking at an infected tooth area can tell you whether the tooth is beyond repair or what kind of treatment could help heal it.
  • Sleep apnea is a disorder that causes your breathing passage to block or shrink. Some other conditions like diabetes and cardiovascular trouble can cause this. It’s worth looking into in an upcoming post!
  • We can identify abnormal growths indicating cancerous, tumor-related, and cystic diseases.

 

What’s the difference between CBCT and standard x-rays?

You may have heard or received full mouth x-rays (FMX) or panoramic x-rays (PANO) from your dentist.

  • FMX — This is a relatively short procedure done by your dentist to diagnose any dental problems, including cavities and gum disease.
  • PANO — An x-ray image is often taken by orthodontists and oral surgeons. It doesn’t reveal much about what’s going on, but it gives the doctor an idea of where an impacted or displaced tooth may be.

A dental CBCT is more effective and less intrusive than traditional x-rays. It uses less radiation and captures much more information about your health. This data can be processed in seconds through radiographic software, has the highest spatial resolution, and is the most accurate of all 3D imaging modalities. Furthermore, cone beam CT scans allow you to see soft tissue and bones.

What are the benefits of CBCT scans?

A healthy smile is more than just attractive – it also starts with healthy bones and gums. Our periodontists are here to help you achieve and maintain that healthy foundation. Powerful tools like CBCT scans can help as they are essential to delivering high-quality periodontal care.

There are a lot of benefits to getting a CBCT scan, including the following:

  • Recently, the quality and accuracy of images have improved.
  • You might not realize it, but your dental health impacts everything you eat and drink.
  • In addition, using an ergonomic mouse can provide a more comfortable browsing experience and make it faster to complete tasks.
  • A lower dose of radiation

Why are CBCT scans necessary?

A CBCT Scan gives our radiology team a clear view of your body’s internal anatomy. This is useful for diagnosis and treatment plans even before starting procedures.

Notable, this technology is a critical step in successful dental implant surgery. In addition, CBCT scans can help your periodontist:

  • Provide accurate measurements, including the shape and dimensions of your jaw. These will be used to create a support that is an exact copy of your mouth from which the prosthetic teeth will be fitted.
  • Identify gum issues
  • Doctors often detect a lesion on the skin to see if it could mean severe health conditions.
  • Locate the origin of any pain.
  • Check for sinus infection symptoms, such as congestion, post-nasal drip, and pain in the face.

CBCT scans for dental implant treatment

CBCT scans are vital to modern implant treatment and help our team deliver better outcomes. This technology lets us fully see the soft tissues, bones, and teeth to make for a smoother always experience.

CBCT scans help our periodontists:

  • The most crucial factor regarding dental implants is the accurate design and restoration of a proper bite. Many people with tooth loss experience difficulty chewing food properly and speaking clearly. Patients with misaligned teeth may also suffer from gum disease because they can’t brush their teeth.
  • «Measure and localize the available jawbone, location of the maxillary sinus, and sensory nerves.»
  • For maximum stability, safety, and integration, you’ll want to choose a size for your implant that is both short enough to be fully into the bone and long enough for the jawbone to close around it.

What to expect when you get a CBCT scan

Here’s what to expect from a cone beam CT scan:

  • During the exam, we ask that you remove any metallic objects, including jewelry and eyeglasses. In some instances, if you are wearing a hearing aid, we may also need to remove it temporarily.
  • We tell all our patients and ask them to sign a consent form, ensuring they are sure they have no chance of being pregnant.
  • Remain as still as possible during the scan
  • The CT scanner will rotate entirely around your head while taking images

Book an Appointment with a Dental Specialist

Book an Appointment with a Dental Care Specialist
Book an Appointment with an Aesthetics Care Specialist
Book an Appointment with a Nutritionist Care Specialist
Book an Appointment with a Cosmetology Care Specialist
Need Some Help?
Contact Us
Address

Urban Center Building.

Blvd. General Sánchez Taboada 9589 Suite102 1St floor, Zona urbana rio, Tijuana 22010, B.C. México.