3D Cone-Beam Imaging Scanner – Plano, TX
Get an In-Depth Look into Your Smile
These days, dental technology is more advanced than ever before. Digital X-rays, in particular, are an excellent tool that provide invaluable information to our team as we monitor your oral health and diagnose oral health issues. Although they’re certainly effective, they sometimes cannot deliver the detailed information we need to give the highest quality care. Because of that, our practice has invested in a 3D Cone-Beam Imaging Scanner. To learn more about this machine, continue reading or give our office a call today!
What Is a 3D Cone-Beam Imaging Scanner?
A CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) machine uses advanced technology to create three-dimensional images of teeth and dental structures, soft tissues, nerve paths, and craniofacial bones. It uses the same type of radiation as a normal X-ray machine, but it emits it in a cone-shaped beam.
The scanner allows our team to get an in-depth look at your oral health by showing the connective tissues, nerves, and other details that would not show up on a typical X-ray. Additionally, it can capture different types of images, including panoramic and cephalometric (lateral).
How a 3D Cone-Beam Imaging Scanner Works
You’ll be happy to know that your experience with a CBCT scanner will be simple, quick, and painless! All you do is stand in front of the machine and bite down on a mouthpiece. The scanner will move around your head, capturing thousands of images in just a matter of seconds. Depending on the size of the area being scanned, you might be in the machine for upwards of 40 seconds.
Once the scan is complete, the images are instantly visible on our chairside computer monitor. We will review the 3D scans with you and explain your recommended treatment plan. If needed, these images can be shared with our dental laboratory, trusted specialists, and insurance providers.
What to Expect During a Scan
If you’ve ever undergone a CT scan in a hospital, then you are already familiar with the process of getting a CBCT scan. The only key difference between these two machines is that a CBCT scanner emits far less radiation, allowing patients to remain standing during the process.
Before your scan, you’ll be asked to remove any jewelry that could interfere with the results. You’ll be positioned in the machine and asked to stay as still as possible while it moves around you. Once that’s done, we’ll review the images immediately.
The scan is often used to diagnose complex dental problems or help our team plan for advanced procedures. It will provide us with the data we need to ensure you have a comfortable and successful dental experience. Some popular treatments this machine is used for include root canal therapy and dental implant placement.