3D Imaging and Digital X-rays

3D-Cone-Beam_Image

What are imaging and digital x-rays?

3 D X-ray is a commonly used method in radiology. The X-rays pass through multiple tissues, striking a film or detector to create an image. X-rays are safe when properly used by professionals (radiologists and technologists) specially equipped to minimize exposure.

Digital X-ray involves the use of digital x-ray sensors as opposed to the traditional photographic film. Digital x-rays are beneficial as they can digitally transfer and enhance images and increased efficiency by eliminating the need for chemical processing. Also, less radiation is used to produce an image of similar contrast to conventional radiography.

X-rays can be used to image every part of the body and are used to look for fractures. They also help in examining the chest, abdomen, and superficial soft tissues. X-rays can identify many different health conditions, and they are a quick and convenient method to make a diagnosis.

How is 3-D dental imaging done?

Medical technology has been progressing at an incredible rate for the past several decades. This is especially true for the dental industry.

One of the most important and exciting developments in dental technology in the past decade has been the advent of 3D dental imaging. However, most people are not aware of what 3D dental technology is and how it works.

The 3D dental imaging process at Chula Vista scans the lower half of the face to create an image. The most widely recognized and technologically advanced method of completing the scan is with a Cone-Beam Computed Tomography machine (CBCT). This machine takes a scan of the mouth using a series of small beams of radiation, which produces a digital image. This series of images is formed, collected, and compiled, into a three-dimensional model and used for a variety of dental purposes and further diagnosis.

What are the advantages of 3D dental imaging?

  • More efficient: 3D dental imaging allows the dentist to see the entire mouth not just a specific part from an X-Ray.
  • Bone quality assessment: 3D dental imaging scans are used to assess the bone quality, vital for evaluating the presence of sufficient bone for implant placement. Additionally, it determines the size and location of lesions and breaks.
  • More precise: 3D dental imaging gives a view of how the teeth align with one another and where they sit about each other. 3D imaging has an incredible resolution, leading to accurate imaging and measuring. Therefore, the images can be used to pinpoint the exact location for a dental procedure.
  • Short scan time: 3D dentistry can acquire all scan images in one rotation. Scan time does not differ from a normal scan. This reduces the chance of image defects due to the physical movement of the patient. It also minimizes time spent on the scan.

FAQ

Do digital x-rays produce 3D images?

3D Digital X-rays can produce images of teeth, soft tissue, and nerve pathways in a single scan. A machine, known as the CS 9300, utilizes cone beam technology to produce three-dimensional images.

How long does a dental CT scan take?

The positioning takes a few minutes, but each scan takes less than a minute to perform. The whole procedure should not take more than 30 minutes.

Will a CT scan show a tooth infection?

An X-ray of the aching tooth can help identify an inflammation. It can also determine whether the infection has spread, causing abscesses in other areas.

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