Advantages of 3D Xrays Over Traditional Dental Xrays

August 1, 2023

Years of dental research and innovation have led to the introduction of new methods of carrying out dental xrays. For many years, traditional x-rays have been the go-to method for diagnosing dental problems which occur underneath the gums and inside the tooth. 3D xrays now seek to improve the accuracy, efficiency and reliability of dental xrays by introducing new useful xray imaging features. Recently introduced 3d xrays offer a lot of benefits that outshine traditional dental xrays. We’ll touch on that and more in this article.

About 3D X-rays and Their Benefits

Traditional xrays have undergone numerous improvements and modernization, which led to the production of a more efficient and reliable method of diagnosing dental problems. The introduction of 3d xrays has revolutionized dental procedures since dentists can use the three-dimensional views taken by the device to come up with better treatment plans and care for patients. Below are some of the benefits of using 3d xrays over traditional dental X-rays:

  • 1. Better Diagnostic Features

3d xrays or cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) provide a detailed and comprehensive view of the oral cavity, which allows dentists to assess mouth structures such as the teeth, bone, gums and nerves from several different angles. This enables dentists to understand the patient’s mouth better, thus resulting in more accurate diagnoses during dental exams.

In addition, dentists can utilize images taken by 3d xrays to get precise measurements of dental structures, including size, shape and density. This is important as it allows them to better evaluate dental problems for treatment planning.

  • 2. Improves Treatment Planning

3D x-rays produced detailed images, which are better than ones made by traditional x-rays. This enables dentists to create better-personalized treatment plans for patients since they can identify precise positions of dental structures, evaluate how the structures are connected to supporting tissues and plan treatments that will be most effective. By assessing potential risks related to the treatments they’ll be providing, dentists in 92121 can figure out how to provide treatments which will be minimally invasive and pose low risks of complications.

  • 3. Enhance Patient Safety

Modern X-ray devices utilize cone-shaped X-ray beams, which produce less radiation than traditional X-rays. In addition, the scans take less time to complete, which reduces patients’ discomfort while increasing the efficiency of the scans. Less exposure to radiation during diagnosis means patients will be better protected from complications linked to too much radiation exposure.

Types of 3D Dental Xrays

There are several types of 3d xrays in dentistry. Each method of 3d xrays has its benefits and are suited for different diagnosis. Below are common types of 3d dental xrays:

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

CBCT is the most common type of 3d X-ray used in dentistry. The X-ray technique uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam to provide a three-dimensional view of a patient’s oral structure. This type of X-ray is most useful when used to evaluate the placement of dental implants, detect impacted teeth and diagnose temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders.

Digital Volume Tomography (DVT)

Digital volume tomography is a type of 3d imaging that closely resembles CBCT but slightly better since it provides images of higher resolution while releasing less radiation. It is often used for dental implant site evaluation and assessing complex dental cases.

Digital Panoramic X-Rays

This type of X-ray is most useful at capturing a broad view of the entire oral cavity, such as the teeth, jawbone and TMJ. Your dentist will use this form of X-ray to assess the health and state of Your teeth to ensure you don’t have an underlying dental problem that needs treatment.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

When talking about 3d X-rays in San Diego, CA, an MRI is one of the last things that comes to mind. Although an MRI isn’t commonly used in dentistry, it can sometimes be used for diagnosing cases related to TMJ and soft mouth tissues. MRIs provide detailed images just like other types of 3d X-rays but do so without using ionizing radiation.

Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography – Computed Tomography (SPECT-CT)

SPECT-CT is primarily used in oral surgery, maxillofacial and other complex dental procedures to determine bone density and the presence of tumours and infections. The modern imaging technology combines CT scanning with nuclear medicine imaging.

Conclusion

There are numerous benefits of using 3D X-rays over traditional dental X-rays. 3d X-rays improve the accuracy of diagnosis, improve treatment planning and enhance the safety of treatments. Since 3d X-ray devices are costly and require more skills to operate than traditional dental X-rays, they may not be available at every dental clinic in San Diego, CA. So, visit Scripps Poway Dental Care to access high-quality treatments that use 3d xrays and other modern dental devices to improve dental treatments.

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