When we go to the dentist, or any doctor really, we expect accuracy. It’s important to feel confident that your dentist can help reduce any discomfort that you’re feeling and provide a reasonable solution for dental issues. One way for dentists to make precise determinations about your unique situation is by using a series of x-rays to get a better look at the problem at hand. At Fresno Dental Scan, Dr. Alex Denes, will use a Cone Beam Computed Tomography, or CBCT scanning, to provide you with an accurate diagnosis.
What is CBCT?
Cone beam scans are like traditional x-rays, however their ability to capture detailed images is wider than that of a traditional 2-D scan. With the help of cone beam scans, Dr. Denes can capture a 3-D image of both your upper and lower jaw in just one scan. This pain-free, non-invasive procedure supplements 2-D scans and allows us to provide you with a better diagnosis and treatment plan that is best suited for your unique situation.
Based on a single cone beam scan, Dr. Denes will be able to differentiate between all the structures within your mouth. He will see a visual layout of the soft tissues, bones, teeth, and canals hidden deep within your facial structure. From this scan, he can determine the most accurate and beneficial plan of action for your situation.
Cone beam scans can assist Dr. Denes in diagnosing a variety of different dental issues, such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) disorder, which is caused by the misalignment of your jaw, and can lead to chronic pain in the head, neck, and jaw. CBCT scans can also help dentists detect tumors, make an appropriate plan for the surgical removal of impacted teeth, determine the ideal placement of dental implants, and allow for a better image of bone structures and tooth placement within the mouth.
Higher Radiation Levels
Although the radiation exposure from all modern radiography scans is very low to begin with, cone beam scans do expose you to higher levels of radiation than 2-D scans. However, when you consider that just one cone beam scan can replace multiple lower level scans, the overall exposure may be less in some cases. For example, an issue that may be hard to pinpoint with 2-D scans may require several scans to locate the problem—whereas a single CBCT scan can provide Dr. Denes with thousands of detailed images all at once. Ultimately, the radiation levels associated with cone beam scans fall within the federally regulated limits and you can rest assured knowing that the radiation that you experience during your scan will immediately leave your body once the scan is completed. Due to the slightly higher risk of radiation exposure, we will only recommend a cone beam scan if we feel that it is crucial to understanding your unique condition.
Benefits of A Cone Beam Scan
Cone beam scans allow for clearer imaging and provide us with more information than a regular scan. For most patients, the benefits of a cone beam scanning far outweigh the minor risks. The most common reason Dr. Denes will recommend the use of a CBCT scan is to get an image of the bone and soft tissues with your facial structure in a single scan. This is an incredibly beneficial tool that allows him to make an accurate and precise treatment plan to best address your needs.