3D Implant Treatment: How is Cone Beam Scanning Different?

With two dimensional film or digital dental X-rays, there is only so much information that can be obtained about patients’ overall oral health. While these diagnostics are perfectly sufficient for common restorative procedures like fillings, or even routine teeth cleanings, it becomes more problematic when planning an intricate procedure like dental implants. As implant surgery involves interacting with soft tissue and bone, it’s necessary to get a clearer picture of teeth and tissue beforehand.

Planning Treatment with 3D Images

3D cone beams dental scans capture images of bone and nerves, in addition to teeth and gums, to more accurately plan your implant treatment.  While the equipment moves around the patient’s head (like a panoramic X-ray), it is collecting hundreds of images that it can turn into a virtual model of oral structures. These pictures are free of the common problems that can be encountered with traditional, 2D X-rays, building a higher resolution re-creation of all facets of a patient’s smile.

With this information, Dr. Bucci knows exactly where to place your implants to target areas where bone is most dense, supporting best possible outcomes.

Is Cone Beam Imaging Safe?

As with any X-ray that is necessary to diagnose conditions and plan a correct treatment, CT scans provide some patient exposure; however, that amount is kept to a safe minimum by examining only a specific and minimal field of view. Examining a larger treatment area can increase exposure, which is why we only evaluate specific implant treatment sites with a cone beam scan. Cone beam scans are not utilized for less complex procedures, where the in-depth view of oral structures is not necessary. It’s also important to consider that everyone is exposed to background radiation from our environment each day; conservatively applied CT scans provide a clear benefit for many treatments and patients.

As complex implant procedures are typically needed by older patients who have lost teeth over a lifetime, risk is lowered and benefits of the scan become even more apparent, as quality of life increases with functional and stable new teeth.

Ask Us Questions about 3D Guided Implant Surgery

If you have questions about how 3D scanning technology can help you enjoy improved results from implants dentistry, contact our Thousand Oaks dental office today.