CT scans are well-known diagnostic tools in the medical field. They are found in hospitals as well as other medical facilities. What many people may not realize is that they are starting to be utilized in dental offices as well.
CT scans work by emitting a series of beams through the body while the machine is moving in the shape of an arc. This is in contrast to a traditional X-ray that only emits a single beam for a single two-dimensional image. By using multiple images taken from various angles, CT scans produce much more detailed images and even can present them in 3D.
These scans help dentists in several ways, beginning with diagnosis. With a clear image with which to work, the cause of any problems can be pinpointed quicker and more accurately. This means less time is spent trying to figure out what the problem is so dentists and their patients can proceed with choosing a treatment plan that is effective.
CT scans have proved to be a valuable tool once the treatment phase begins as well. They can help orthodontists be able to more efficiently straighten crooked teeth. They can also help during oral surgery and while putting in bridges and crowns. These scans are so helpful because they deliver to the dentist an image by which the relationship between adjacent teeth, bones and sinus cavities can be seen. This helps to avoid complications that might otherwise develop as a side effect of the treatment.
The latest developments in CT scan technology are available in a unit that can be used in our office. This is called an I-CAT In-Office Dental CT Scanner. It allows our dentist to take an image of the full skull when necessary, or he can limit it to smaller sections if that is all he needs.
The images produced by the I-CAT CT Scanner imaging system can be taken very quickly, often in less than five seconds. In addition, the system is beneficial to the patient because these images can be captured with a much lower radiation dose than was previously possible.
The I-CAT CT Scanner also has technology that enables it to capture images of both hard and soft tissue while being able to distinguish between the two. In those situations in which only a two-dimensional image is needed, I-CAT is capable of that also.
When it comes to technology of this nature, anything that helps our cosmetic dentist with quicker and more accurate diagnosis while making the actual treatment easier will also benefit the patient. You can learn more about how this amazing technology works during an appointment at the office of Dr. Samuel F. Jirik, DDS in Cabot, AR. We also serve the Little Rock, AR area. Contact us today to schedule your dental appointment.
