If you’ve ever taken an x-ray at a dentist’s office, it is likely that you’ve already experienced a CBCT. The traditional title for this is cone beam computed tomography and uses a specific type of x-ray to get a complete image of the mouth. These are used when other more traditional forms of imaging cannot be sufficiently used. The CBCT forms three dimensional images and allows your dentist to observe the teeth, tissues, nerves, and bone structures in one single scan. This all-encompassing imaging machine is exactly what a dentist needs to properly identify the state of a patient’s mouth. Dental cone beam computed tomography can be confusing, so more information regarding the x-ray machine is listed out below.
CBCT Process
Getting a CBCT is actually a quite simple process. When you arrive in your dentist’s office, they will take you to the scanning room where the machine will be set up. They will then instruct you about how the imaging technology works and what you must do to have a proper scan. First, you’ll be asked to remove any form of metal you may be wearing. This includes everything from rings to earrings and other forms of jewelry. If you don’t remove them, the magnetic technology can harm you if they remain in.
After this, you’ll stand in the machine and be asked to bite on the mouthpiece. The imager will leave the area and initiate the machine. It will rotate around your head. The whole process is fast and takes under a minute. Your dentist will then be left with perfect images of every part of your mouth. This will allow your dentist to clearly identify any issues or cavities that you may be experiencing. The use of a CBCT is important in dentistry, as it is used as a preventative care measure.
Uses for a CBCT
Your dentist will request a CBCT scan for a patient under many different circumstances and scenarios. First, if you need surgical planning for any impacted teeth, this form of imaging will let your dentist see and plan out everything they’ll need to do. Another reason for CBCT can be, to diagnose TMJ.
TMJ, otherwise known as temporomandibular joint disorder, is a disorder that negatively affects your jaw and causes daily pain. A third reason that CBCT could be used is to locate why you are experiencing a form of dental pain. Whether that be a cavity or tooth growing in improperly, CBCTs can help dentists identify the location of pain. Lastly, if your dentist is concerned about your dental growth, they can issue this form of x-ray imaging to identify the bone and tooth structure in your mouth. This can help them identify if you have any teeth growing in improperly, such as your wisdom teeth, and if they are impacted or need to be removed in the future. Using the CBCT is a great preventative treatment measure and can allow your dentist to properly predict any measures that may need to be taken at later dates.
CBCT for Cosmetic Dentistry
Using a CBCT for cosmetic dentistry is an important part of the process, as it’ll allow your cosmetic dentist to properly prepare for whatever treatment they may be doing for you. For a great cosmetic dentist, the Aesthetic Associates Centre can help you out. During your free and complimentary dental consultation, you’ll likely be asked to take a CBCT image of your mouth so the dentist can properly view every aspect of the mouth. If you have issues with your cosmetic appearance including missing, discolored, or decaying teeth, this cosmetic and implant dentistry center can assist with all of your dental needs. Contact us to schedule an appointment today!
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