3D imaging represents a new age in dental technology, and Smile Dental Riverview is keeping up with the times. It allows our dentists to gain a better view of your teeth and around the mouth. This is achieved via a special machine called Cone Beam Computed Tomography, or CBCT for short. The machine creates a 3D image of your actual teeth. It also takes shots of different angles of your head from the scanner. Not just your teeth, but it allows viewing of your gums, nerves, bones and roots too. Our expert team are then able to pinpoint and diagnose oral issues more accurately.
Benefits
⁃ Better view of your teeth, gums and areas around the mouth such as nerves and muscles
⁃ More accurate than the previous machinery using 2D-imaging
⁃ Quicker scan completion times (usually around 30 seconds)
⁃ A more detailed diagnosis
⁃ Less radiation damage
It is worth noting that that 3D Imaging is more expensive than traditional x-rays. This is due to the complexity involved in the procedure. However, it is more cost effective in the long run due to the more accurate results. 3D Imaging means you're less likely to need further treatment, saving you both time and money.
Other disadvantages include the large space these machines take up. They are also higher than other x-ray machines. This can particularly be an issue for the younger patients.
Other types of 3D imaging
Despite CBCT being the most commonly used type of 3D scanning, there are others that are also used by dentists to gain a better insight into the patient's mouth. These include:
Intraoral Scanners - a handheld device that is used to form a digital impression of a patient's teeth. Favored for its accuracy.
Optical Coherence Tomography - or OCT for short. A technique used to scan images of the teeth. In particular, searching for tissues to see any damage, decay and enamel issues. Favored for being non-invasive.
Digital X-rays - provides a wider 3D overview of entire mouth and surrounding areas other than just teeth. This includes jaw, gums, nerves and surrounding tissues.
Applications
The 3D Imaging machine can be utilised to offer a range of treatments, depending on the patient’s diagnosis. This includes applications in endodontics (root canals), orthodontics (for crooked teeth), prosthodontics (replacement of missing or broken teeth), oral surgery and more. Our team of experts would then be able to assemble a treatment plan. Whether it is straightening teeth or replacing them, Smile Dental Riverview has you covered.
Paediatric dentistry
Paediatric dentistry is one of the many specialties of Smile Dental Riverview. We offer round the clock PAED assistance for all age groups including infants, children and teenagers. This digital replica of teeth will help in early diagnosis and treatment planning, such as braces maintenance. Thus, the paediatric dentists will be better able to monitor the development of teeth and jaws in young patients.
Experience the latest 3D imaging technology for dental examination. Book your appointment at Smile Dental Riverview today and see how our imaging techniques have improved dental care.