Digital Dental Imaging
For years, dental care has revolved mainly around the use of traditional x-ray machines and molds; however, technology is now making it easier than ever to get a better understanding of a patient’s problems and the necessary solutions. Thanks to digital dental imaging, dentists are now able to gain a greater knowledge of issues and present more satisfactory results.
Rather than relying on x-rays or molds, dental imaging works completely with technology such as computers. Generally, the process works using either i-CAT scans or CBCT digital dental imaging. With these methods, it is possible for dentists to get a better overview of each patient’s mouth, jaw structure, and bite while giving them the greatest ability to understand the best treatment options.
How Do i-CAT Scans Work?
If you’re undergoing an i-CAT scan, you will simply sit in a chair while the device creates a 3D image of your teeth and surrounding structure. While the process sounds like it would be quite extensive, the entire image can be made in as little as five-seconds! Not only does the quick process make this a benefit for young patients who don’t like to sit still, but it also helps everyone by exposing them to the lowest levels of radiation.
How Do CBCT Scans Work?
Just like a i-CAT scan, cone beam computer tomography or CBCT is a process that uses technology to create a digital image of the teeth and surrounding area. CBCT imaging provides dentists with a full view of a patient’s teeth, roots, and facial bones in approximately 20 seconds. These are commonly used when implants, surgery, or orthodontics are necessary. Like the i-CAT scan, it involves low amounts of radiation.
What are the Benefits of Digital Dental Imaging?
Thanks to digital dental imaging, dentists can now get a complete view of a patient’s teeth and surrounding area. With this advanced knowledge, dentists can easily fix appliances to fit well, view root placement, and get a good understanding of where developing teeth will come through. The results are instant, giving the dentist immediate access to the results and cutting out the need for long waits as films develop and molds harden. Dentists, orthodontists, and surgeons can all easily share the same digital image by sending it over the internet, cutting out the need for transporting files. Because the images are so clean, digital images make it much easier for dentists to spot problems and correct them in the best way possible.
Who Can Benefit from Digital Dental Imaging?
While digital dental imaging provides great results for everyone, the speed of the process makes them especially valuable for elderly patients and children who may not be able to hold perfectly still for long periods of time. Since the process is completely painless and involves no difficult challenges, digital dental imaging comes with no risks of gagging on nasty pastes or the fear of discomfort.
The Risks of Digital Dental Imaging
While digital imaging uses very low amounts of radiation, it can still present a low chance of risks. Generally, digital dental imaging is not used on pregnant women since no one can say what is truly “safe” for an unborn child.
If you’re about to undergo a dental procedure, don’t be alarmed if your dentist or orthodontist suggests the use of digital dental imaging rather than a more traditional method. While the name may sound foreign, digital dental imaging is the best way for oral providers to get a good understanding of what’s going on in your mouth and present a treatment plan that will benefit you. Embrace what technology has to offer and let digital dental imaging give you the best results for your dental issues.
If you are interested in digital dental imaging, contact Teach Dental Group to arrange a consultation.