3D Cone Beam Scanning Technology revolutionizing Dentistry in Preston

Technological developments, such as digital imaging systems, have considerably improved the level of detailed information available to dentists. Dental X-rays are important in the diagnostic assessment of patients. Radiographic images help in the diagnosis, treatment planning and follow up of patients with conditions affecting the head, face, teeth and jaw. While some dentists have long relied on 2-D imaging for diagnosis and treatment planning, this technology typically requires multiple exposures, and with them, multiple doses of radiation.

Computed tomography (CT) imaging, also referred to as a computed axial tomography (CAT) scan, involves the use of rotating x-ray equipment, combined with a digital computer, to obtain images of Jaws/teeth. Using CT imaging, cross sectional images of body organs and tissues can be produced. Though there are many other imaging techniques, CT imaging has the unique ability to offer clear images of different types of tissue. CT imaging can provide views of soft tissue, bone, muscle, and blood vessels, without sacrificing clarity.

Today, with a properly prescribed 3-D scan, your dentist can gain the ability to collect much more data – often with a single scan and potentially with a lower effective patient dose. This highly accurate 3-D image of the patient’s anatomy from a single scan allows the practitioner to better diagnose and understand the true extent of dental disease, and they can provide for more appropriate treatment for patients.

Cone beam CT scanners are based on volumetric tomography, using a 2D extended digital array providing an area detector. This is combined with a 3D x-ray beam. The cone-beam technique involves a single 360° scan in which the x-ray source and a reciprocating area detector synchronously move around the patient’s head. At certain degree intermissions, single projection images, known as “basis” images, are attained. These are similar to lateral radiographic images, each slightly counterbalance from one another. This series of basis projection images is referred to as the projection data.

Software programs incorporating sophisticated algorithms including back-filtered projection are applied to these image data to generate a 3D volumetric data set, which can be used to provide primary reconstruction images in 3 planes; axial, sagittal and coronal aspect.

Cone beam 3D imaging is evolving into a “must have” for the innovative dental practices. The added dimension offers a “surgical view” that adds precision to treatment planning and implementation. While achieving quality 3D images is an important, capturing scan responsibly with the lowest radiation dose possible.

Lane Ends Dental Practice is one of a selected few dental implant centres with an in-house 3D cone beam scanner. After this non-invasive, 7 second scan we can accurately examine the bone structure in your jaws. This allows us to precisely diagnose the bone quality and density for placing dental implants. In addition we get a clear view of the inside areas of the bone to see and avoid nerves and determine sinus locations.