Among the most exciting technological developments in recent years is that of Cone Beam Computed Tomography, or Cone Beam CT, which gives dentists the ability to much more accurately assess the condition of a patient’s teeth to improve the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions. As part of Zonies-Holgado Dental Associates, commitment to providing technologically advanced treatment options, we are among the few Cherry Hill dental practices that offer these digital dental x rays to ensure that your dental procedure will be a success.
What is Cone Beam CT?
Cone Beam CT is a form of 3 dimensional imaging that produces an incredibly accurate digital x-ray. Since the initial development of the original CT scanner in 1967, there have been dramatic technological jumps the most recent of which is the Cone Beam CT which has made the diagnosis and treatment of dental conditions much easier and more accurate. Typically the CBCT scanner is much smaller than the original CT equipment and is much more easily accessible to those with limited mobility.
How Is CBCT Used?
CBCT is useful in almost every situation that normally requires dental x rays, however it is particularly effective for those receiving dental implants. With its ability to discern the structures that impact dental treatment like bone, teeth, nerves and soft tissue, Cone Beam CT make it easier to develop an effective treatment plan. In addition, this ability allows us to precisely locate impacted, hidden or missing teeth, not to mention save ‘hopeless teeth’ by discovering untreated nerve canals. Finally, this enhanced digital imaging ability all aids in the identification of bone and gum disease.
The Benefits of Cone Beam CT
Even technologically, Cone Beam CT offers some very real benefits to our patients. Among the many CBCT benefits include:
Convenient – The nature of the Cone Beam Technology eliminates the need of taking diagnostic dental impressions not to mention two dimensional x rays, including multiple bite wings and panoramic images.
Speed – The Cone Beam scanner is much faster than traditional dental x rays and normally takes only 30 seconds.
Lower Radiation Exposure – Employing a cone shaped x ray beam, exposure to radiation is up to a hundred times less than that of a regular or medical CT scanner.
Increased Accuracy – CBCT provides a much more accurate image of your teeth and surrounding structures like nerves and sinuses.
Moreover, it also provides critical information used in implant dentistry regarding bone density that can guide the placement of implants to ensure a successful dental implant procedure.
Needless to say, the use of Cone Beam CT to accurately diagnose and treat dental conditions dramatically improves your patient experience as well as the likelihood of a successful procedure.
Cherry Hill Digital Dental X Rays
Despite all of the benefits of CBCT, many Cherry Hill dental practices don’t have this piece of advanced digital radiography equipment for several reasons. First, many dental practices are reluctant to move beyond traditional dental x rays. Second, the Cone Beam CT scanner requires a substantial financial investment. Lastly, dental practices that employ CBCT must undergo regular training to maintain their level of expertise. At Zonies-Holgado Dental Associates, we’re committed to pursuing the technology and training that will give you not only the best results possible, but also a superior patient experience. If you have questions about our Cone Beam CT and how the digital x rays it produces can impact your treatment, please Contact Us.
