For decades, when you went to see the dentist, you could expect a few things to happen, no matter who you saw. You’d get a thorough teeth cleaning, an in-person exam, and about once a year, you’d get a new set of X-rays. These images of your teeth and jaw helped your dental team have a clearer understanding of what was going on with your teeth underneath the surface. But although old-fashioned X-rays don’t hurt, they did leave much to be desired.
First, they emit radiation that stays in the body forever. Furthermore, they weren’t as detailed as they could be. Over time, engineers solved both of these problems with the help of a machine known as a CBCT (Cone-Beam Computed Tomography) scanner, which is used in dental practices all over the world today. Here are some incredible benefits of CBCT scans, and how your dentist uses this machine to improve your care!
What’s So Great About CBCT Scans?
If you’ve never heard of a CBCT scanner before, you may be wondering what’s so great about it. After all, aren’t all X-rays basically the same? The answer to that question is no! With a CBCT scan, the X-ray beam is focused into a cone shape, so the camera can take images of a more precise location, eliminating the delivery of radiation where it’s not.
Furthermore, unlike traditional X-rays, the cone beam scanner can take three-dimensional photos, so your dentist can have a more detailed understanding of the condition of your jawbone, teeth, and even your soft tissues, tooth roots, nerves, and sinus cavities.
What Happens During a CBCT Scan?
Getting a CBCT scan is extremely easy and comfortable. First, you’ll need to remove any jewelry, glasses, or hearing aids. Then, you’ll simply stand or sit perfectly still while the machine rotates around your head. The entire process takes less than a minute and is completely painless. Your images will be ready for your dentist immediately, and can be taken right in their office, so you won’t need to make a separate appointment or travel to another location to have them done.
Remember, while older dental X-rays are still effective, today’s CBCT scans are more detailed, safer, and more accurate than ever before, making your next dental treatment more precise so you’ll get a better outcome from start to finish!
About Dr. Chandy
Dr. Moji Chandy believes in embracing the latest in dental technology – but only if it benefits her patients. She is proud to use a CBCT scanner to get a more accurate, detailed look at her patients’ oral health. This makes your treatment more precise and effective, all the while taking safer images. To schedule an appointment for any oral health treatment at Aegis Dental, please visit our website or call us directly at 972-492-6700.