When you first see an implant dentist in Ajax to discover more about dental implants, they may discuss the need for certain diagnostic tests, one of which is a cone beam CT scan. While traditional 2-D x-rays are fine for many dental procedures, they do not provide the depth of information needed for dental implant surgery.
What is a Cone Beam CT Scan?
A cone beam CT scan produces high-quality 3-D images of your teeth and jaws, allowing the dentist to see the three-dimensional structure of the jawbone in detail as well as all the soft tissues. Our dentists use these images to assess the quality and quantity of bone in your jaw, and we can see exactly where other important structures. These structures include your natural teeth and tooth roots and nerves and sinus cavities, as these must be avoided during implant surgery in Courtice.
Having a cone beam CT scan in Whitby is different from a conventional CT scan. It emits less radiation because the x-ray beam is focused into a cone shape, reducing scatter radiation and producing a high-quality image. The scan is invaluable when planning and placing dental implants and carries minimal risk. Our cone beam CT scanner is extremely modern, meticulously maintained, and we take every precaution to keep our patients safe.
What to Expect When You Have a Cone Beam CT Scan?
Durham Dental Solutions is equipped with a cone beam CT scanner in Oshawa, so you do not need to travel elsewhere for this diagnostic test. You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for this test as it is quick and non-invasive. However, you will need to remove any jewelry, glasses or hearing aids, and any dental appliances like dentures. The cone beam CT scanner is comfortable to use, and after your face is positioned correctly, you simply need to remain still during the scan. A rotating arm will travel around you, capturing multiple images that are then combined digitally to create a 3-D image.
Using Your Cone Beam CT Scan to Plan and Place Dental Implants
Once your cone beam CT scan is complete, our experienced dental implant dentist in Newcastle can analyze the images. We use the scan to identify the best location for dental implant placement, making maximum use of the available bone where it is strongest while avoiding other essential structures. The scan helps us decide the depth and angulation of each implant to be placed. We also use these images to ensure that once the implants are placed, they can be restored optimally, so you receive implant teeth that look good and function properly.
We also use a process called Digital smile design when planning implant surgery. We create accurate digital images showing your new teeth and which you can view before treatment begins. It’s an exciting process that allows you to become more involved with the planning process, ensuring you get the desired results. Once your treatment plan is complete, we create a highly accurate surgical guide from the scan for use during your surgery.
Making Sure Your Implant Surgery Is Quicker and Smoother
Using the surgical guide or surgical stent during your implant surgery in Clarington helps ensure the actual process is quicker and smoother, which helps aid healing. We know exactly where to make the incisions to place the dental implants and know precisely how each implant will be inserted.
Here at Durham Dental Solutions, we fully believe in investing in the latest dental technologies to use during implant surgeries in Bowmanville. We do everything possible to ensure every implant treatment is a complete success and that the entire process is more comfortable for our patients.
