Our Imaging Room is equipped with state-of-the-art 3D Cone-Beam Computerized Tomography (TAC) technology. CBCT has been described as the gold standard for imaging the oral and maxillofacial area.
What is 3D Cone-Beam Computerized Tomography?
CBCT is a medical imaging technique consisting of X-ray Computerized tomography where the X-rays are divergent, forming a cone. CBCT has become increasingly important in treatment planning and diagnosis mainly in implant dentistry, orthopedics, and interventional radiology.
How does a CBCT help Dr. Cris?
Integrated and in-house CBCT is an important tool for implant positioning and verification. During dental imaging, the CBCT scanner rotates around the patient’s head, obtaining up to nearly 600 distinct images. The Planmeca ProMax® 3D is an x-ray machine that allows the capture of three-dimensional images of the patient’s anatomical regions: oral cavity and region maxillofacial (mouth, jaws, and neck), and ears, nose, and throat (ENT). It is a useful tool in making complex diagnoses and treatment plans that are of particular importance in the field of Implantology (Dental Implants).
Is it safe?
It is fast and safe as the dentist can analyze and evaluate the image almost instantly and the patient is not subject to high doses of radiation compared to a conventional tomography.
Total radiation doses from 3D dental CBCT exams are 96% lower than conventional CT exams. The time of exposure in CBCT is also comparatively less when compared to conventional CT.
What are some common uses of the procedure?
Dental CBCT is commonly used for treatment planning of all dental issues. It is also useful for more complex cases that involve:
- Surgical planning for impacted teeth.
- Diagnosing temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ).
- Accurate placement of dental implants.
- Evaluation of the jaw, sinuses, nerve canals, and nasal cavity.
- Detecting, measuring, and treating jaw tumors.
- Determining bone structure and tooth orientation.
- Locating the origin of pain or pathology.
- Cephalometric analysis.
- Reconstructive surgery.
What are the benefits of using a CBCT machine?
- The focused x-ray beam gives a better image quality.
- A single scan produces a wide variety of views and angles that provide a more complete evaluation.
- Allows for more precise treatment planning.
- Painless, noninvasive, and accurate.
- Images bone and soft tissue at the same time.
- No radiation remains in a patient’s body after a CT examination.
What equipment does Dr. Cris Piessens use?
Dr. Cris Piessens has invested in a ProMax® 3D Classic unit by Planmeca. This machine covers the entire dentition – making it an excellent option for full arch dental 3D imaging needs. Planmeca Oy is a Finnish brand that has been on the market for over 40 years and is one of the world leaders in digital dental radiology, enabling 3D imaging (TAC) to study, diagnose and plan safely, immediately, and professionally.
