Benefits of 3D Dental Imaging for Impressions

It’s crucial to be aware of the technology used by a dentist when selecting one for your family. Most experienced Grand Rapids dentists acknowledge that advanced dental technology provides several advantages for patients. For instance, 3D dental imaging is more precise and less invasive than conventional X-rays.

If you require dental restoration or cosmetic procedures like dental implants, you might want to consider 3D dental imaging. This article will outline the advantages of 3D dental imaging, allowing you to make an informed decision when seeking treatment.

How Do 3D Scans Work?

To capture images of your teeth and jaw, dentists employ a specialized device called a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) machine. This technology produces a 3D image that resembles the appearance of your teeth in real life. This advanced technique allows dentists to plan treatment efficiently and accurately identify oral health problems.

By utilizing 3D dental imaging, your dentist can analyze the height, width, and depth of every tooth in your smile. Conventional X-rays, which offer limited information, are becoming obsolete as more dentists switch to CBCT technology. With a single 3D scan, your dentist can assess your teeth, muscles, nerves, diseases, infections, and other factors.

What is 3D Imaging used for?

Several dental procedures utilize 3D imaging, such as:

• Placement of dental implants
• Orthodontic treatment
• Root canal therapy
• Treatment for sleep apnea
• TMJ treatment
• Tooth extractions
• Oral surgery

What Do I Expect?

The process of 3D dental imaging may differ depending on the technology used by your dentist. However, sitting down for digital dental X-rays is typically the most comfortable and convenient option, especially for patients with disabilities.

To prevent any movement during the scan, our Jackson Square Dental Care dentist will ask you to rest your head on chin support. The equipment will rotate around your head for several seconds to take dental impressions of your teeth, jaw, and skull. During the procedure, you will be exposed to minimal radiation, which generates between 100 and 600 images. The radiation exposure associated with 3D dental imaging is significantly lower than with traditional dental X-rays.

Benefits of 3D Scans

Some of the benefits of 3D dental imaging in Hamilton, ON, include the following:

Have a Superior Diagnostic Accuracy than 2D Scans.

The advanced technology of 3D CBCT imaging enables it to differentiate between various types of tissue, which can help identify a broad range of problems, such as infections, pathology, and abnormalities in the sinuses and joints.

With the aid of 3D dental imaging, patients can receive an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment much faster than with previous methods. This means that problems can be identified early on, leading to better treatment outcomes and faster recovery.

Reduced Radiation Exposure

Radiation exposure can cause eye damage, the development of malignancies, and other health risks, particularly when patients undergo multiple scans over time. As a result, medical technologies are increasingly seeking to reduce patient exposure.

Compared to traditional medical CT scans, 3D CBCT scans emit substantially less radiation, reducing the dosage by up to 98.5%. With this technology, patients can have peace of mind, knowing they receive a safer and more accurate diagnostic tool.

It is non-Intrusive

Unlike traditional dental imaging techniques that require patients to bite down on a mold or piece of plastic, 3D CBCT imaging does not require any action on the patient’s part. The CBCT scanner can scan the entire head, making it particularly useful for patients with sensitive gums or teeth and pediatric patients. This makes the process more comfortable and less intimidating for patients, leading to better compliance and less stress.

3D Imaging is more Cost-Effective

It is less expensive than going to a third-party imaging center for a medical CT scan. Bringing a 3D CBCT dental imaging device to the dentist’s office eliminates the need for a middleman and saves patients money. Medical CT scans can be costly, making 3D CBCT imaging an excellent option for patients seeking dental imaging services.

Short Scan Time

A typical 3D CBCT scan takes around ten seconds to complete, allowing dentists to diagnose and solve problems quickly. Having an in-house 3D CBCT scanner at the dentist’s office eliminates the need for patients to go to a third-party imaging company for a medical CT scan. This saves time and effort, making it a convenient and efficient patient option.