3D Imaging (CBCT)
Mid-Hudson Oral and Maxillofacial Practice, PC offers state-of-the-art imaging techniques to enhance our precision oriented surgical procedures.
WHAT IS A CBCT SCAN?
A CT (computed tomography) scan is a noninvasive medical test that uses special X-ray equipment to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body and a computer to join them together in cross-sectional views of the area being studied.
Traditional panoramic X-rays performed by your dentist provide only a limited two-dimensional view. While they can show the height and contour of the jawbone, they give no indication of the bone width and density and may distort the location of important structures such as the inferior alveolar nerve and maxillary sinuses.
Our state-of-the-art anatomized dental CBCT imaging adds remarkable precision regarding dental implants and third molar surgery. We take the guesswork out of dental implant placement and allow for safer extraction of wisdom teeth. This quick and safe diagnostic imaging exam produces life-like three-dimensional views of the mouth that let our surgeon determine pre-surgically if a patient is an implant candidate. With 3D imaging, we proceed with confidence, knowing the amount of bone a patient has, the distance to the alveolar nerve, the distance to the maxillary sinus, and the precise angles to situate the patient's implant(s).
SAFETY
The radiation used in our highly advanced CBCT exam is significantly lower than in a conventional CT scan.
SHOULD I CONSIDER DENTAL CT IMAGING?
CBCT imaging is used when patients are being evaluated for complex implant treatment plans and cases involving the more difficult third molar extraction cases. The more information our surgeon has about the anatomy of the patient's mouth before surgery, the better the long-term outcome. Important measurements for the surgeon to know include the width, height, and density of the jawbone ridge, as well as the distance to the maxillary sinuses to assess implant feasibility and the potential need for bone grafting prior to implant placement. The exact position of the alveolar nerve can also be determined to reduce the risk of nerve damage and to assess the overall feasibility of implant placement. Dental CBCT imaging can also help visualize nerve location prior to wisdom tooth extraction.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT BEFORE DENTAL CT IMAGING?
This specialized CT imaging is not covered by most insurance carriers. Consequently, payment is expected at the time of the study. If your general dentist or orthodontist has supplied you with an appliance to wear during the scan, please make sure to bring the appliance with you and be comfortable with how it is to be positioned during the study. Remove any removable dentures, prostheses, jewelry, and eyewear that may interfere with the area being scanned.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING CBCT IMAGING?
A dental CBCT scan does not require a contrast injection, and the entire exam takes about five minutes. The doctor will position your body so that the biting surface of your teeth is parallel to the CT scanning plane. Normal breathing is acceptable, but it is important for you to remain very still.
WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT AFTER CBCT IMAGING?
You have no restrictions after having a CT scan and can resume your normal activities. After the examination, Dr. Hilmi will review the scan and consult with the radiology service if indicated. The results will provide our surgeon and his patients with valuable data crucial to the success of your surgery. These images will be discussed with your dentist as well to afford maximized treatment plan success.