Dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), a new type of X-ray equipment, uses 3D cone beam and dental scans to give dentists a detailed, three-dimensional image of the mouth. This advanced dental technology assists dentists without giving patients pain or discomfort. A single scan provides dentists with detailed photos of the teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways, and bones.
Cone beam dental scans are available at Healthy Dental Center in Des Plaines and the surrounding area. Our team aims to provide effective treatment while keeping you comfortable. Call us at 847-390-5800 to schedule a consultation appointment today.
A 3D cone beam machine resembles conventional CT scan machines and comes in two different structures, an upright chair for sitting or a moveable table for lying down. Depending on the procedure and type of machine, the patient will be seated in an exam chair or lie down on an exam table. The chair has an extendable arm, while the table has a rotator (gantry) that rotates 360 degrees around the patient’s head, taking multiple images at once.
The images are taken at different angles and gathered to create a single 3D image. The machine takes anywhere between 150 to 200 high-resolution two-dimensional images during one rotation. The images are then digitally combined to form a three-dimensional image. This image provides valuable information about a patient’s oral and craniofacial health. The three-dimensional image is available as soon as the scan is complete, allowing the doctor to discuss the patient’s treatment plan during the same visit.
"According to the Radiology organization, the machine takes anywhere between 150 to 200 high-resolution two-dimensional images during one rotation."
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Traditional CT scanners and cone beam CT scanners both have the same basic function, but technical differences set them apart. A traditional CT scan takes several pictures of internal body structures from multiple X-ray images generated by a computer. The X-rays create cross-sectional images and are beneficial primarily for surgeries and diagnostics.
Cone beam scanners use a cone-shaped beam radiating from an X-ray source. They cover a wide range with a single rotation around the patient’s head. The X-rays are compiled through a series of algorithms to create high-resolution 3D images. Cone beams use a fan beam instead of a light beam and emit 200-300 times less radiation.
"Traditional CT scanners and cone beam CT scanners both have the same basic function, but technical differences set them apart."
Cone beam CT scanners reveal far more information than traditional scanners and provide detailed images of a patient’s underlying bone structure. Cone beams are beneficial when traditional X-rays do not provide sufficient information needed for treatments. They can evaluate diseases of the jaw, dentition, bony structures of the face, nasal cavity, and sinuses.
Cone beam technology has also been useful for diagnosing oral cancers and cysts and managing impacted teeth. A study on cone beam technology found that it contributed greatly to the planning and successful surgical management of dentigerous cysts and associated impacted teeth. Since cone beams take wide range photos, they capture in-depth areas that traditional scanners can easily miss.
"Cone beam CT scanners reveal far more information than traditional scanners and provide detailed images of a patient’s underlying bone structure."
Q. How does a 3D cone beam work?
Q. What is the difference between traditional and cone beam scanners?
The cone beam scan is painless and does not require any anesthetics. Patients can resume regular activity immediately after their X-ray. Although the machine does not cause any pain, patients should let us know if they are claustrophobic.
After the exam, the dentist will write a report of the scan results. The patient can see their images and follow the dentist as they move through the treatment plan. Patients can also discuss their preferences for treatments, the treatment process, and aftercare.
"Patients can resume regular activity immediately after their X-ray."
The use of 3D cone beams and dental scans provides dentists with the information necessary to create the best treatment plan for you. Healthy Dental Center can help. Call us at 847-390-5800 to learn more about our services or schedule an appointment.
Does insurance cover cone beam scans?
Cone beam scans may be covered by insurance companies since there is a rise in these scans with patients. However, not all insurance providers cover these types of scans. People should contact their insurance provider for more information before seeking treatment.
What kind of image does a cone beam scanner produce?
Cone beam scanners take detailed images of the entire head. The positioning of your teeth affects the entire head, allowing dentists to see the underlying bone structure and jawline and creating more accurate treatments. They are beneficial for procedures around delicate areas and for planning correctional procedures.
How long have cone beams been used?
Cone beam scanners are a relatively new dental advancement. Although they were invented in 1967, they were first introduced in the European market in 1996 and in the U.S. market in 2001. The number of dentists using CBCT scans is growing.
How safe are CBCT scans?
CBCT scans emit 200-300 times less or 1/10 the amount of radiation as traditional imaging systems and X-rays. Cone beam CT scanners also allow dentists to emit a specific dosage, making them safer and more flexible. All X-ray scans in dentistry require some amount of radiation, and CBCT scans minimize radiation exposure.
Is there anything I should prepare for or bring for a CBCT exam?
There is little preparation required before a CBCT scan. Patients must remove all loose or metallic objects before the exam. Patients with metal implants can get a CBCT scan. During the scan, patients must stay still and not swallow or talk during the exam.
Healthy Dental Center is located at 8901 W Golf Rd Ste 202 Des Plaines, IL 60016.