What is Dental Cone Beam CT?
Dental Cone Beam CT is a type of computed tomography (CT) technique, which uses x-rays projected outwards in the shape of a cone, to produce 3D images of the mouth, teeth and facial structures. At Divine Dental Care, we have our own machine to enable our patients to have their 3D imaging taken onsite. We use the highly sophisticated Vatech Green 16, which allows for low dosage radiation to be used during a scan.
When is it used?
Dental Cone Beam CTs can be used to examine the teeth, mouth, jaw, throat, neck and ears. Once an image is acquired, the dentist may use it for:
- Dental implant planning
- Evaluating abnormal teeth, jaws and facial structures
- Assessment of cleft lip and palate
- Diagnosis of cavities and root canals and dental trauma
- Treatment planning for orthodontics
What does having a Dental Cone Beam CT involve?
The procedure for taking a scan is very simple. After the patient has removed their jewellery and glasses, the dentist will take them to the scanning area. The patient will then be asked to stand in the correct position, and then asked to bite down gently on a plastic mouthpiece to ensure the head and jaw remain completely still, while the scanner rotates around the patient’s head, taking multiple images. The images are then reconstructed on a computer to bring up a 3D image useful for treatment planning and diagnosis.