A cone beam CT creates a 3D view and cross-sections of the target area. The information it provides is critical for a number of situations. Our office utilizes this technology to aid in performing complex root canals or to search for the source of pain, infection or identified potential cracks. CBCT gives us the information we need about your condition before a dental procedure. It is not required for every case and is only taken when necessary.
Dental cone beam CT emits less radiation and provides a more complete picture than CT and CAT scans. Hospital CTs work by taking a series of parallel X-ray images of the head, from top to bottom. That leaves gaps between each image, which have to be filled by the computer’s educated guesses, and that many X-rays come with a lot of radiation.
A cone beam CT circles the head, which overlaps each image or slice, leaving no gaps. The radiation is also much weaker. The most radiation hits the area of interest, which is where the images overlap to construct the 3D model. This is how CBCT is able to provide a more complete image with less radiation exposure.
Aside from providing more complete information, dental CBCT scans, therefore, emit much less radiation than Medical CT Scans. The risk associated with this lower level of radiation is much less than that of getting an inaccurate diagnosis but still is only used when a conventional x-ray is not enough for an accurate diagnosis. When necessary, a CBCT scan along with the interpretation of a Maxiallofacial Radiology Specialist ensures that Dr. Grossman, Dr. Geisler or Dr. Abitbol will have a better chance of diagnosing your problem with more accuracy. For more information about cone beam 3D imaging, give us a call at (905) 668-6747 or send us an email.