CBCT at Expert Dental Care 

    Expert Dental Care is equipped with the latest technology in dental imaging. CBCT stands for cone-beam computed tomography. It is a type of dental imaging that uses X-rays to create three-dimensional (3D) images of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures. CBCT scans are more detailed and informative than traditional two-dimensional (2D) dental X-rays, and they can be used for a variety of diagnostic and treatment planning purposes. 

    How does CBCT work? 

    CBCT scanners use a cone-shaped X-ray beam to rotate around the patient’s head. As the scanner rotates, it takes hundreds of images from different angles. These images are then combined to create a 3D image of the patient’s anatomy. 

    CBCT offers a number of advantages over traditional 2D dental X-rays, including: 

    • More detailed images: CBCT scans provide more detailed images of the teeth, jaws, and surrounding structures than traditional 2D X-rays. This is because CBCT scans capture images from multiple angles, which allows dentists to see all sides of a tooth or structure. 
    • Better diagnosis: CBCT scans can help dentists to better diagnose a variety of dental problems, including impacted teeth, root canal infections, cracks, bony pathologies and TMJ related conditions. 
    • More accurate treatment planning: CBCT scans can help dentists to more accurately plan dental treatments, such as dental implants, orthodontics, and surgery. 

    CBCT can be used for a variety of diagnostic and treatment planning purposes, including: 

    • Impacted teeth: CBCT scans can be used to locate impacted teeth and to assess their position and relationship to surrounding structures. This information can be used to develop a treatment plan for safely extracting the impacted tooth. 
    • Root canal infections: CBCT scans can be used to identify root canal infections and to assess their severity. This information can be used to determine whether a root canal treatment is necessary and to plan the treatment accordingly. 
    • Jaw tumors: CBCT scans can be used to identify jaw tumors and to assess their size, location, and relationship to surrounding structures. This information can be used to develop a treatment plan for surgically removing the tumor. 
    • Dental implants: CBCT scans can be used to assess the patient’s jawbone density and to identify the ideal location for dental implants. This information can be used to plan the dental implant surgery and to ensure that the implants are placed in the best possible location. 
    • Orthodontics: CBCT scans can be used to assess the patient’s tooth alignment and to plan orthodontic treatment accordingly. 
    • Oral surgery: CBCT scans can be used to plan oral surgery procedures, such as jaw surgery and wisdom tooth extraction. 

    Is CBCT safe? 

    CBCT is a safe and effective imaging modality. The amount of radiation exposure from a CBCT scan is similar to that of a traditional dental X-ray.  

    How to prepare for a CBCT scan 

    There is no special preparation required for a CBCT scan. You will be asked to remove any jewellery or metal objects from your head and neck area. You may also be asked to wear a lead apron to protect your body from radiation exposure. 

    What happens during a CBCT scan? 

    A CBCT scan is typically performed in a dental office or radiology clinic. You will be standing upright and your head will be positioned in the scanner. The scanner will rotate around your head, taking images from multiple angles. The scan will take approximately 30-60 seconds to complete. 

    What happens after a CBCT scan? 

    After the scan is complete, the dentist will review the images and discuss the findings with you. The dentist may also use the images to develop a treatment plan. 

    Conclusion 

    CBCT is a valuable tool for dentists. It provides more detailed and informative images than traditional 2D dental X-rays, and it can be used for a variety of diagnostic and treatment planning purposes. If you are considering having a dental implant, orthodontic treatment, or oral surgery, your dentist may recommend a CBCT scan to help plan the procedure.