How Does 3D Imaging Technology Help Oral Surgeons?

Three-dimensional imaging systems allow oral and maxillofacial practices to provide a whole new level of care for their patients. This state-of-the-art technology offers doctors the ability to diagnose oral health conditions and potential issues with more accuracy than ever before.

The use of 3D imaging is not a new technology for many fields, however, advances in applications and accessibility is allowing 3D imaging to be utilized in a number of new industries. For fields requiring high levels of accuracy, such as oral surgery, 3D imaging is an invaluable tool.

Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons utilize the latest innovation, the Vatech cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) digital imaging system, to create detailed 3D models of patients’ mouths, airways, and more. Using a 3D image aids doctors when planning dental implant surgeries, allowing them to see anatomical structures, such as the sinuses and nerves, to precisely determine the best surgical measures.

What Is CBCT?

CBCT uses X-ray computed tomography with diverging X-rays that form a cone. The CBCT process is similar to that of CT scanners, but with less radiation, and can provide doctors with a 3D image within seconds. During a scan, the machine rotates entirely around the patient’s head, producing up to 200 images from a variety of angles and compiles them into one 3D image.

CBCT images display bone, soft tissue, sinuses, nerves, nasal cavity, airways, infections, tooth roots, cavities, jaw conditions, facial fractures, abnormal growths, and more three-dimensionally all at once. Previously, visual inspections of many of these areas required separate X-rays with little visible detail or the surgeon’s inspection of the area.

Doctors are able to choose a specific field of view that best suits patients’ treatment area and render an unmatched visualization of anatomical detail to develop precise and customized solutions. CBCT scans allow doctors to design their surgical approach well before beginning a procedure. Using 3D imaging also provides patients with a better understanding of their needs and procedures through visual detail. Advantages of CBCT imaging include:

  • High resolution digital 3D images for a more detailed view of affected areas.
  • Detailed images that better allow diagnosis of more complex conditions.
  • Visualization of difficult to see anatomy, such as the sinuses and airways for sleep apnea evaluation.
  • Quicker diagnosis of conditions and assessment of treatment benefits and risks.
  • Earlier detection of periodontal disease, cysts, jaw infections, tumors, TMJ osteoarthritis, and pathology.
  • Accurate measurements, shape, and dimensions of the jaw.
  • Ability to select the proper implant size and dimensions for stability and integration.
  • Locate the origin of pain or pathology.
  • Allows more procedures to be performed in-office, reducing patients’ visits or trips to the hospital.
  • Safe, fast, and comfortable for patients.
  • More than 10 times less radiation that traditional imaging.

Technology such as CBCT also benefits doctors and patients in planning implant procedures, such as tooth extraction or implants. With CBCT, doctors can precisely size implants, analyze the position of nerves, sinuses, and adjacent roots, and use virtual tooth positions to plan procedures.

Dental CBCT scans are an effective tool for doctors to gauge your oral health, diagnose issues, and prepare treatment plans with one single scan.

South Jersey Oral Surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons Use State-of-the-Art 3D Imaging Technology to Diagnose and Treat Patients

Our commitment to providing patients with top-level care includes providing the best innovative technologies, such as 3D imaging to diagnose, plan, and treat oral and maxillofacial conditions. Speak with one of our experienced South Jersey oral surgeons at Lanzi Burke Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons to learn more. Call us at 856-582-4222 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation. Located in Washington Township, Haddonfield, and Woolwich Township, New Jersey, we serve patients throughout South Jersey.

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