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You may be familiar with doctors using computed tomography, known as CT scans, to identify medical problems, but did you know oral surgeons use similar technology? In Anchorage, Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska utilizes a variety of technical equipment including CT scans to provide the best care for their patients. Here, they discuss how dental cone beam CT scans help oral surgeons diagnose conditions and improve dental surgery outcomes.

How CT Scans Help Oral Surgeons

1. Identify Complex Cases

Dental cone beam CT scanners use special technology to create 3-D images of teeth, tissues, bone, and nerves, all in one scan. This equipment helps oral surgeons identify unusual conditions, discover sources of pain, and plan treatment for complex cases.

2. Plan Dental Procedures

CT scans enable dental surgeons to plan and execute difficult oral surgeries affecting the teeth. For example, using such technology, oral surgeons pinpoint and remove impacted wisdom teeth more effectively and insert dental implants more accurately. 

3. Correct Jaw Conditions

oral surgeonsOral surgeons use CT scans when evaluating patients’ jaws, including diagnosing and treating temporomandibular joint disorder or TMJ. This technology also helps identify, measure, and treat tumors in the jaw and locate causes of jaw pain.

4. Identify Sinus Problems

CT scans are used to nail down the cause of persistent nasal cavity and sinus problems. Using the technology’s airway assessment capabilities, dental surgeons resolve issues including sinus blockage and damaged nerve canals.

5. Determine Bone Structure

Before performing reconstructive surgery, oral surgeons may use CT scans to determine the orientation of a patient’s teeth and bone structure. This technology helps dental surgeons measure the head and jaw and confirm bone alignment more accurately.

If you experience oral pain or problems and want a thorough examination, contact Oral Surgery Associates of Alaska. Based in Anchorage, the experienced team lead by oral surgeons Dr. William F. Bergeron, Jr. and Dr. Ray Holloway are ready to help you with technology like CT scans. To learn more and make an appointment, visit them online now or call (907) 561-1430.

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