What Is A CBCT Scan?
Regular dental X-rays may not provide enough detail in some cases. A standard CT scan is a process that exposes you to considerably less radiation, but in certain cases, we prefer the use of a cone-beam CT (CBCT) scan.
A cone-beam scan emits less radiation than a medical CT while providing us with ultra-detailed high-res images we require to identify any underlying dental issues you might have.
How a CBCT Scan Differs Compared To Other Techniques
Computed tomography is a method of X-ray imaging that has the beam focus with greater precision and then merges the data into an informative picture using software on a PC. Because the beam’s focus reduces radiation dispersion, the quality of the image is considerably superior to what can be obtained with a standard X-ray at the dentist’s office.
A cone-beam scan is noninvasive and takes detailed images with no pain or side effects. Because of the ability to modify the numerous angles taken by one easy scan, it easily gets us a better picture of what might be occurring and provide you with the correct dental care.
A cone-beam scan differs from medical computed tomography scans by employing a small focused beam to target the area in question with extreme accuracy. After this, the computer makes a 3-D picture of the bone, nerves, teeth, and other tissues under the gums.
When Are CBCT Scans Recommended By My Dentist?
Mouth pain or discomfort could occasionally be caused by factors other than cavities, traumatic tooth injuries, or periodontal disease. Dental examinations or regular X-rays can’t always determine the source of your pain.
This type of scan could be used to detect dental anomalies caused by trauma, jaw tumors or infection, advanced tooth decay, problems with your bite, or temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ). It’s also commonly utilized during the planning of any installation of implants, surgeries, tooth extractions, root canals, dentures, or bone grafts.
A cone beam scan might be used in examining problems outside the mouth, like your nasal passages or your sinuses.
Do CBCT Scans Carry Any Dangers?
While the exposure registered by the cone beam scan is less than that obtained from a medical CT, there is more radiation emitted than a standard dental X-ray. Patients are exposed to more radiation than traditional dental X-rays as a result of this technique so we only use it when necessary to get a deeper look at potential issues.
If there is any possible chance you could be pregnant it is critical that you let us know so that we can adjust the procedure to minimize exposure or defer it until after the baby is born.
The dangers of utilizing a CBCT scan on children are greater because they are more radiation-sensitive. We will only utilize a small-dose scan on a pediatric patient as a last resort.
Are There Benefits To A Cone Beam Computed Tomography Scan?
The dangers of this type of scan are extremely minor, the advantage to having one if needed greatly outweighs any risks. We employ it in complicated procedures which have a need for more detailed information since it gives more information than a regular dental X-ray.
Is Preparation Required For A CBCT Scan?
There is typically little to no preparation required for a scan in routine procedures other than taking off any obstructive eyewear or jewelry.
What Happens During a Cone Beam CT Scan?
The device rotates around your head to obtain a 360-degree digital picture that takes anywhere from 10 to 60 seconds to complete.
In that little amount of time, it produces hundreds of hi-res 2-D pictures. Then software combines the images to generate a 3-D image of the location. This 3-D image is critical in assessing your condition and providing you with more accurate treatment options because it gives us information about what’s going on inside your body.
After it is complete, the dentist will evaluate the results of the scan and speak to you shortly after.
CBCT Scans For Cosmetic Dental Procedures
A thorough scan of the mouth is beneficial for any cosmetic dentistry or reconstructive operations, such as inlays, onlays, crowns, dental implants, dental bridges, or veneers.
A Cone Beam scan can show tooth orientation, as well as help, predict whether a root canal or bone graft is necessary.
When performing implant dentistry, it is simpler for dentists to assess and localize the position of your natural teeth and available jawbone spacing since the images are digitized. Utilizing the patient’s CBCT scan results of it helps minimize the likelihood of misplaced implants during the procedure.
This helps guarantee that the implants fulfill the patient’s functional and aesthetic needs.
Is CBCT expensive?
No, CBCT is not expensive. It may be more costly than a traditional dental X-ray, but the added information that it provides justifies the price.
If you are having unexplained pain or discomfort and would like a more detailed diagnosis, ask your dentist if a CBCT scan is right for you. This type of scan can help determine the source of the problem, so you can get the treatment you need.
Schedule An Appointment In Port St Lucie
Contact us today to schedule an appointment whether you need a check-up for general health, need assistance with dental implants, dentures, have tooth pain or missing teeth, or if you are interested in a new smile.
We are accepting new patients so please contact our Port St Lucie Fl dental office for assistance if you have any questions about your smile or are concerned about our process or procedures.
We want you to feel at ease with our dental care services and would like to assist you.
Contact us now at 772.336.2300 for an appointment today.