Do you need to have dental implants, but you are dreading the downtime or the entire procedure itself?
Have you heard about ct-scan for dental implants, and are you looking for more information?
Unlike uncomfortable and awkward x-rays, cone beam CT scans are more comfortable and easier to sit through.
Not only are they a better alternative to their x-ray counterpart, but they are also safer for you.
If you are looking for more information on the dental implant procedure and the incredible technology behind the scenes, then you came to the right place!
This brief article will go over what ct-scans are and where you can go to get your dental implants done quicker!
What Is a CT-Scan for Dental Implants?
When you think about visiting a dentist’s office, you usually think of toothbrushes, drills, x-ray images, and bright lights. You typically do not think about having a CT scan for your teeth, do you? Imaging technology has improved and advanced drastically, introducing the CBCT machine.
The CBCT machine, also known as the cone beam CT scanner, develops a 3D image of your mouth and skull. Unlike traditional X-rays, which only create a 2D picture of your skull and mouth, the CBCT machine provides greater detail with less radiation. This advanced imaging technology is particularly useful for procedures like dental implants in Rockville, where precision and accuracy are essential.
When Are 3D Scans Used?
Most dental offices utilize 3D dental imaging to diagnose root canal issues, dental cavities, and dental implant surgery. These scans allow the dentist to have a better and higher-quality picture of the anatomical structure of each patient.
Other ways 3D scans are used in the industry are:
- To determine the location of nerves
- Pinpoint the best placement for implants
- View any impacted teeth
- Plan the entire surgical procedure in advanced
- Measure the density of your jawbone
- Diagnose tumors and diseases in their early stages
Most dentists will only use this type of scan if absolutely necessary. They also will only deploy a CBCT scan when it directly benefits the patient.
Diagnostic Advantages of 3D Dentistry
3D dentistry offers many incredible benefits to patients, such as limited radiation exposure. The scan minimizes the patient’s exposure to radiation by about 98%.
Accurate Imaging
CBCT imaging has an excellent resolution, allowing for extremely accurate measuring and imaging. These scans make it easier for your dentist to pinpoint the exact location for your dental procedure.
Short Scan Time
The amount of time that a 3d ct-scan takes is about the same as the standard x-ray. The 3D technology allows the dentist technician to capture your scan in a single rotation.
Incredible Image Details
As mentioned earlier, the CBCT scan produces high-quality images, allowing your dentist to pinpoint problem areas. One single scan from the CBCT scan produces more accurate images than a traditional x-ray.
These 3D photos enable your dentist to see nerves, infections, pathology, and so much more. This helps your dentist properly treat any dental treatments as they can better plan your procedures.
How Does 3D Dentistry Work?
The CBCT imaging process starts with taking a scan of the lower half of your face. The machine continues taking scans of your mouth, sending small beams of radiation to produce images. The series of photos are collected and compiled before they are converted to create a 3D image of the target areas.
Just like a traditional x-ray, this CBCT scan is completely painless. Many dentists who have access to this type of technology prefer to use this method to identify any degenerative conditions. 3D dentistry also helps to identify any potential problem areas that may appear later on down the road.
3D dentistry can now integrate with digital impressions of teeth. CEREC technology allows your dentist to take impressions of your teeth with ease and accuracy.
After these dental impressions are complete, they can merge with the CBCT scan. The combination of these two technologies allows dentists to plan complex treatments properly. Dentists can create and recommend customized corrective devices and sleep appliances.
CBCT vs X-ray
As mentioned earlier, CBCT scans emit less radiation and produce better images than x-rays, but that is not the only difference between the two scans. When you sit for your x-ray, the dental technician will usually ask you to bite down on intra-oral sensors to capture images.
CBCT scans do not require to bite down on those awkward and uncomfortable sensors. Additionally, these CBCT scans provide a more in-depth scan of not only your teeth but your entire skull. X-ray scans only capture the images of your teeth.
Do You Need a CT-Scan for Dental Implants?
You don’t technically need a CT scan for your dental implants, but a CT scan for dental implants provides a more accurate image. CBCT scans allow your dentist to pinpoint better and plan where to place your implants for your dental implant surgery. X-ray scans are feasible for your dental implants, but CBCT scans allow your dentist to better plan the angle for your dental implants.
CBCT Procedure
CBCT scans are completely painless and typically only take a few minutes to complete. The cone-beam CT scanner is mounted against the wall on an arm that rotates around your head. The dental tech will prep you and take you into the room where the CBCT scanner is located.
You have the option to either sit or stand for the scan. The technician will ask you to place your chin on a platform, and they will then adjust the entire scanner to a height that is comfortable for you. The dental technician may ask you to bite down on a small tab to help ensure that you are in alignment.
Once you are all ready for the scan, the technician will turn on the machine. All you have to do is sit still as the machine rotates around your head. The technician may use a strap or a brace to keep your head as still as possible to have an extremely accurate image.
Cost of CT-Scan for Dental Implants
Some dental offices can charge as much as $700 or more for the CT scan of your teeth. Other dentists, like Rockville Dental Arts, do these scans for free. Your dental insurance may also cover the cost of the CBCT scan. Ensure that you do your research and call the dental office to ask about their pricing and see if it is included in your dental insurance plan.
3d Scan Aftercare
The cone-beam CT scan experience is usually very quick, generally taking only about fifteen seconds to complete. Your dentist will show you the images created by the scan and will go over any vital information about your dental procedures.
This type of 3D scan does not require you to have any pre-scan consultations. Because the scan is non-invasive and painless, there are no required aftercare instructions.
Why Dentists Prefer CBCT Scans
Many dentists prefer to utilize CBCT scans, especially for those patients who need dental implants or other types of surgeries. CBCT scans allow your dentist to have better accuracy when performing your procedure. Because the dentist can better know where to go and how to approach the procedure, you can expect less downtime after the procedure.
With less downtime comes less pain and a more rapid recovery. CBCT scans also reduce the amount of risk of injury. Dentists are drilling and operating near nerves, blood vessels, and sinuses. Cone beam scans make it easier for your dentist to avoid those areas at all costs.
Another benefit to why dentists prefer cone beam CT scans is that they can reduce the amount of time you are under anesthesia. Because the images show the entire structure of your head, your dentist knows where to go, and they can complete the procedure a lot faster than usual.
You will also notice that your results last longer and appear more natural. That is thanks to 3D imaging technology. Cone beam scans allow your dentist to properly place your implants that align with the natural alignment of your jaw.
Try CT-Scan for Dental Implants
CBCT technology is slowly making its way to dentist offices all around the country because of all the great benefits it offers the dentist and patients. This painless scan provides incredible images that make all your dental procedures more straightforward and faster to complete.
Who wouldn’t like a shortened visit to their dentist with less pain and better results? If you are looking to get your ct-scan for dental implants, contact us now. Our office has a top-of-the-line CBCT machine that provides us with all the correct information we need to get you in and out as soon as possible.