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When you visit your dentist for a surgical procedure, your oral health team may recommend you undergo a dental CBCT scan to create an effective treatment plan. If you are unfamiliar with this process and how it relates to your dental care, you probably have many questions about it. To help you prepare for your upcoming appointment, here’s a guide to this type of X-ray and what to expect.

What Is a Dental CBCT Scan?

To effectively plan and treat oral health and jaw problems, dentists sometimes need to see what’s happening underneath the surface. The dental cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a specialized X-ray service that captures three-dimensional images. Since the device uses a focused beam, scatter radiation is reduced and image quality improves. As a result, your dentist can see and evaluate bone, soft tissue, dental structures, and nerve pathways in one scan so they can inspect the state of your oral health and establish a plan for treatment.

When Do Dentists Order This Procedure?

Dental CBCT ScanA dentist may use a dental CBCT scan to diagnose and treat a variety of oral health conditions. Most frequently, this is ordered to plan surgery for impacted teeth, detect jaw tumors, diagnose nighttime grinding or a temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), assist with dental implant placement, or map out reconstructive surgery related to the teeth, gums, and jaw. 

What Does the Process Entail?

As with a traditional X-ray, a dental CBCT scan is a painless procedure. To capture effective imagery, the technician will ask you to sit or lie very still in a dental chair while the device circles around your head to capture 360-degree images. You may be asked to remove your jewelry or other metal accessories to avoid interference. The device generally needs 20 to 40 seconds to cover every angle and produce a 3D image. 

 

If you’re searching for a dentist in Skagit County, WA, that offers cutting-edge technology like dental CBCT scans, visit Curtis Wade, DDS, PS. Based in Burlington, they provide periodontal services including dental implants and gum grafting to improve the look and health of your smile. They also perform sinus augmentations. Learn more about what they offer online or call (360) 757-0201 to schedule an appointment.

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