By Rafael Mercado, DDS on November 30, 2018
A cone beam computed tomography (CT) scanner is a type of imaging device that many modern dentists use to take three-dimensional x-rays of the structures in a patient’s mouth. Our Castle Hills, TX practice use the Sirona GALILEOS® Comfort PLUS to take our 3D x-rays. This tool is essential to the way we develop a custom dental implants surgery treatment plan that’s right for the patient.
Dr. Rafael Mercado and his team would like to go over some of the basics of cone beam imaging technology and why it’s such an important part of implant dentistry for us. We can go over these matters with you in greater detail during a visit to Castle Hills Family Dental for a consultation.
What to Expect During a Cone Beam X-Ray
Having an x-ray taken with the Sirona GALILEOS® Comfort PLUS is simple. A patient simply stands and bites gently on a small mouthpiece as the scanner does all of the work. The images are taken in just 14 seconds or so.
A Three-Dimensional Approach to Dentistry
In this 14 seconds, multiple images of the teeth, jawbone, and mouth are taken from different angles, providing dentists with a three dimensional view of the inner structure of a person’s mouth. The position of any remaining teeth, the shape of the jawbone, the presence of nerve and soft tissue, and other factors can be considered when going over these scans.
This is far better than traditional dental x-rays of the past, there dentists would have limited front, top, and side views to work with, and with far less detail to consider.
Less Radiation Than Traditional Dental X-Rays
Another important advantage of the Sirona GALILEOS® Comfort PLUS is that it exposes patients to less radiation than traditional x-rays. While the amount of radiation from normal x-rays was safe, this means enhanced safety for our patients as we develop a treatment plan just for them.
Determining If Preliminary Care Is Needed
Using the information from these three-dimensional scans, a dentist can determine if preliminary treatment (bone grafting, soft tissue augmentation) is needed to accommodate dental implants. While these procedures will add treatment time to the implant dentistry process, they will help ensure that the implants can be anchored into healthy tissue.
Optimizing Implant Placement
Thanks to these three-dimensional scans, dentists can optimize implant placement. This ensures that the implant is as stable as possible for any false teeth or appliances supported, and that the implant functions in concert with other teeth and parts of the mouth. In essence, dental implants are given an even greater chance to function just like natural tooth roots would under ideal conditions.
Reducing the Risk of Complications and Treatment Failure
Thanks to the views afforded by the Sirona GALILEOS® Comfort PLUS, dentists can reduce the risks of complications during the surgical procedure and during the months-long process of healing and osseointegration. This means greater patient comfort during recovery, stellar outcomes and results, and high levels of patient satisfaction once the dental implants process is completed.
Contact Castle Hills Family Dental
For more information about implant dentistry and how it can benefit you, be sure to contact our experienced cosmetic and restorative dentists. The team at Castle Hills Family Dental can be reached by phone at (210) 405-1257.
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