What is Cone-Based Tomography in Dentistry, and How Can You Benefit from It?

Before cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) became available to dentists, they had to rely on one-dimensional or two-dimensional X-rays to aid in patient treatment planning. CBCT allows dentists to obtain a three-dimensional view of the patient’s entire head for more efficient treatment planning.

Why is Seeing All Structures in a Patient’s Head Important?

Your nasal structures, airways, and temporomandibular joints can affect your oral health just as much as the condition of your teeth, gums, and jaws. By getting a full 3D picture of each patient through cone beam computed tomography in Shaker Heights, OH or Solon, OH, Dr. McGuire better understands how each structure affects the other.

How Does CBCT Work?

This technology relies on several types of computer tomography systems (CT). Dental professionals like Dr. McGuire retrieve X-ray data from the cone beam that rotates around the patient’s head. He then uses these images to piece together a single 3D image that helps him diagnose your oral health issue. He is especially interested in evaluating the following areas:

• Teeth and gums
• Jaw, mouth, and neck that make up your maxillofacial and oral region
• Ears, nose, and throat (ENT)

What Are the Most Common Uses of CBCT?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved CBCT in the early 2000s, and the technology has become increasingly popular among dentists since then. Dr. McGuire, always being one step ahead of the curve due to his interest in facial orthopedics, has used CBCT for many years. Some of the most common reasons he uses this diagnostic equipment include:

• Assessment of cleft palates
• Dental trauma diagnosis
• Diagnosis of cavities
• Evaluation of jaws and face
• Planning dental implant treatment
• Root canal evaluation
• Viewing abnormal teeth

After using the 3D image to assign a diagnosis, Dr. McGuire starts working on your treatment plan right away. Please contact us to request an evaluation or to learn more about cone beam computed tomography in Shaker Heights, OH or Solon, OH.