Dental x-rays have a convenient way of providing dentists with the information they need about their patient’s teeth. Normal x-ray machines focus on providing information about teeth through 2D methods, helping dentists diagnose problems in the teeth and jaws, showing signs of decay, bone loss, root canal infections, and cysts. Among these x-rays, two popular forms of x-rays exist; intraoral and extraoral. Both of these methods provide examinations but cannot also provide more accurate measurements, precise locations of infected teeth, and analyzing the effects of your teeth and how they impact the airways, canals, and sinuses. CBCT scans help diminish these issues and provide a more sound and effective form of dental treatment overall.

CBCT Scans: What are they?

CBCT, or cone-beam tomography, is a form of an extraoral x-ray that uses 3D imaging to provide information about dental structures, soft tissues, nerve pathways, and bone details at a higher resolution. Dental CBCT scans help cut radiation exposure more drastically than many other CT (extraoral) scanners and provide faster answers in a non-invasive way. These scanners have been sold in the United States since the early 2000s and have become a more reliable system for diagnosis of dental conditions and diseases.

Benefits and Disadvantages of CBCT Scanners

Dental CBCT scanners create a more comfortable patient experience, allowing the dentist to diagnose without internal invasion of the mouth. They create more accurate readings in preparation for surgeries, restorations, and other dental procedures. However, the amount of radiation exerting from CBCT machines deliver more radiation than conventional dental x-ray scanners. Thus the exposure to these machines must be monitored and advised, especially when younger patients are involved. For parents and healthcare providers, these machines are only used for diagnosis and treatment for dental conditions.

Why would you need a CBCT scan?

Not all imaging procedures operate the same, and some of the factors involved with normal intraoral and extraoral scanners can limit the patient’s capability to undergo the procedure. CBCT scans are less sensitive to movement, take less time to perform, and won’t be affected by any restorations or other implanted medical devices. They can examine micro-fractures in bones, tissue damage, and other issues related to your teeth and gums, which gives dentists a more accurate form of treatment. Any present tumors or cysts can also be diagnoses without biopsies’ interference and can measure the precise locations and measurements of these cysts to help form further treatment. These scanners give dentists and surgeons the information they need to perform the successful treatment and have the ability to reverse dental conditions that may initially go unnoticed.

If you have any further concerns or questions about CBCT scanners or wish to have a dental appointment, contact Dr. Bob Dokhanchi at Fox Valley Dental in Aurora, IL, for more information, as Dr. Dokhanchi can help treat any of your dental conditions with ease and confidence.