Dentist in North Oklahoma City Offers Cone Beam Scanning

X-rays are an integral part of any dental practice. They help your dentist see what is beneath the visible surface, which is helpful in cavity detection and prevention, especially. But during the preparation phase of more complex oral procedures, a traditional X-ray may not be sufficient. This is true with dental implants — a complex procedure that requires an in-depth view of your teeth and all the surrounding oral structures.

When a comprehensive image is needed for the absolute best results, your dentist in North Oklahoma City uses the cone beam scanner! Keep reading to learn more about how it works, and why it’s worth it to visit a dentist who uses this technology.

What Is the Cone Beam Scanner?

The cone beam CT (computed tomography) is a special type of X-ray machine that captures one comprehensive image of your teeth and all the surrounding oral structures. This full view makes it very valuable in the planning stages of dental implants, which require your dentist to know the precise placement of all the nerves and bones in your jaw. The cone beam CT generates a 3D view of everything — from the soft tissues and nerves to the bones, tooth roots, and more.

Similar to CT Scanning

The cone beam CT is similar to a CT scan you may have had taken elsewhere on your body, but it projects a different type of beam that makes it perfect for capturing the oral anatomy. A cone beam CT produces more radiation than a routine X-ray, but these levels are perfectly acceptable in specialized cases. Cone beam radiation levels are still lower than with a conventional CT scan. In addition to dental implant treatment planning, this tool may also be used in the diagnosis of diseases in the jaw, sinuses, lymph nodes, and others.

What to Expect

You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for this type of scan. Dress comfortably and be prepared to remove earrings or large/bulky jewelry. It only takes a couple of minutes to capture the image that is necessary for precise treatment planning, so you will not have to wait long for the process to take place.

First, you will be covered with a protective drape to reduce radiation exposure. Then, your dentist’s assistant will help you position your head while standing under the machine. Remain still and wait for it to make a complete turn around your head. Once it has gone all the way around, that’s it!  

The cone beam CT scanner is a wonderful tool that helps to increase the success of dental implant placement and other complex procedures. Choosing a dentist who offers this service in-house will prevent the need for outside referrals, making the whole process a lot smoother. When it comes to your oral health and wellness, that is worth a lot!

Meet the Dentist

Dr. Patrick Crowley offers comprehensive, state-of-the-art implant dentistry at the office of Bluff Creek Dental. He has outfitted the practice with the latest in dental technology, including the cone beam CT scanner, and much more. To learn more about Dr. Crowley’s services or to schedule a consultation to discuss your implant procedure, feel free to call the office at 952-937-5200.