Dental Cone Beam Computed Tomography
The Next Phase of Dental & Orthodontic Imaging
CBCT: Advanced 3-D Dental Imaging
OVERVIEW
Dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a specialized x-ray machine which produces detailed three dimensional images of teeth, TMJ, airway, soft tissues, and bones in one single scan.
Cone beam computed tomography is a variation of the traditional computed tomography (CT) used in medicine. The Dental CBCT system used in our practice captures all the needed anatomy in one single cone-shaped beam rotation - with 10 times less radiation exposure.
CBCT has some similarities with conventional X-rays, and also with the standard CT scans you would get in a hospital setting. But it's a huge leap forward in technology and diagnostic precision. It offers us the ability to visualize intricate structures inside the mouth & jaws in three dimensions. This specialized imaging reduces the need for invasive procedures, shortens treatment time and offers the chance for a better outcome. Having this 3D detailed information on the position of teeth and jaws helps determine exactly how and where teeth should be moved - minimizing treatment duration & trauma and maximizing patient comfort and efficiency.
Overall the precise 3D diagnostic visualization of teeth, bone, TMJ & airway - provided by the Dental CBCT - allows for much more precise and individualized orthodontic treatment planning and thus optimal results.
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TMJ Evaluation
The temporal mandibular joint is closely integrated with occlusion (bite) and thus orthodontics. Improper bite over the long-term can contribute to temporal mandibular dysfunction (TMD) with symptoms such as clenching/grinding, jaw & facial muscle pain, clicking/popping of the TMJ, locking etc. A CBCT Image allows us to see the temporal mandibular join in 3 dimensions and accurately diagnose & treat TMD in conjunction with the occlusion or bite.
Orthodontic Treatment Planning
A CBCT image allows us to view in precise detail the teeth, bone and surrounding tissue -without having to estimate based off of a 2-dimensional panoramic & cephalometric x-ray. For impacted teeth, TAD-placement or other complicated orthodontic problems- this image provides invaluable guidance allowing us to give our patients the most individualized treatment plan with the highest chance of success, minimizing further trauma to adjacent teeth and bone during treatment.
Airway Evaluation, Expansion & Sleep Apnea
There is an increasing focus on airway evaluation and with good reason. A narrow jaw (palate) and cross-bite, whether from a habit (such as thumb sucking), a mouth breathing habit, a physiological restriction such as a tongue-tie or respiratory issue with the coincident low tongue posture - goes hand-in-hand with a narrow airway which we can precisely evaluate with a CBCT image. This provides invaluable information to aid in the diagnosis of airway issues such as sleep apnea so that we can treat the etiology or cause of the malocclusion - instead of just the symptom.
