3D Dental Imaging
The dental world is constantly evolving in terms of new technology and ways to make patients’ lives easier. Our dental clinic in Chicago takes pride in staying on top of the latest dental technology, including cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), also known as 3D dental imaging.
These systems rotate around patients and capture data using a cone-shaped x-ray beam. The data points help reconstruct a 3D image of the patient’s teeth, mouth, jaw, neck, ears, nose, and throat.
Why Do We Use Dental 3D Imaging?
Dental clinics in Chicago continue to use 3D dental imaging systems for a variety of clinical applications, such as dental implant planning, visualizing the progress of abnormal teeth, diagnosing root canal issues, diagnosing dental cavities, or diagnosing dental trauma. This type of imaging provides dentists with a more comprehensive view of a patient’s oral anatomy compared to traditional two-dimensional x-rays.
Rest assured that we will only use 3D dental scans when it is necessary and when it will directly benefit the patient.
The Benefits of 3D Dental Imaging
There are many benefits to using 3D dental imaging in a dental practice. It provides us with a fast and non-invasive way to answer many different clinical questions about our patients. While other technologies such as traditional x-rays provide 2D information, these images provide 3D information to our team. This helps us develop the most efficient treatment plan possible so that you can enjoy your smile as soon as possible.
The image quality from 3D scans are higher quality than other types of scans, providing our team with accurate information to help develop your treatment plan. The scan is painless and highly accurate. One major advantage of the 3D technology is its ability to capture the image of both bone and soft tissue at the same time. No radiation will be left in the patient’s body after the examination takes place.
Preparing for the Use of Advanced 3D Technology
Preparing for a 3D imaging procedure is generally straightforward. Patients will be asked to remove any jewelry, eyeglasses, or other objects that may interfere with the imaging process. Additionally, patients may need to remove any facial or oral piercings.
Before the procedure, patients should inform their dentist of any health conditions or medications they are taking, as these may impact the imaging results. Patients who are pregnant or suspect they may be pregnant should also inform their dentist before the procedure, as 3D dental imaging involves exposure to radiation.
During the procedure, patients will be asked to sit or stand still while the imaging machine rotates around their head, taking multiple images to create a 3D model of the teeth and jaw. The process is typically quick and painless, and patients can resume normal activities immediately afterwards.
Are you ready to learn how 3D imaging can improve your oral health? Chicago Dental Solutions offers dental 3D imaging at our Lakeview dentist office, our River North dentist office, and our Archer Heights dentist office.
