Spoiler alert: CBCT scans produce clearer, more precise images than digital x-rays! While this is a valuable advantage, it isn’t the only reason we choose to use CBCT imaging in our Porters Neck at Willmington orthodontist office.
CBCT scans have a number of advantages – some of which may surprise you. They produce 3D images, but they’re also kinder to the environment and kinder to human bodies. (Did you know that CBCT scans have minimal radiation exposure compared to a conventional CT?)
Here’s everything you need to know about the benefits of CBCT imaging and how Dr. Matsumoto uses these precise 3D views to create beautiful smiles for our patients.
What does a CBCT scan show?
A cone beam CT scan is taken when a more complete picture of your dental structures is needed! Dr. Matsumoto can use this machine to get a 3D image of your teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways, and your jawbones all in one scan! Without cone beam computed tomography, we wouldn’t be able to see the entire picture of your oral and craniofacial health – which is fundamental in creating personalized, specialty treatment plans.
The Benefits of CBCT scans (Vs. CT and digital x-rays)
1. CBCT scans produce high-quality, accurate 3D images.
CBCT scans generate clear 3D images from the layering of 150-200 high resolution pictures taken during the imaging process (which takes less than a minute to complete!) These high-quality 3D views help Dr. Matsumoto examine bone structures, teeth and gum tissue, spot orthodontic and periodontal problems, and complete a comprehensive exam.
Your orthodontist can zoom in on images, zoom out, rotate or adjust the contrast if necessary to create a specialized treatment plan that considers all aspects of your smile.
Regular digital x-rays create a 2D image which allows for image-enhancing tools, but doesn’t offer the level of precision and depth that cone beam computed tomography does.
2. CBCT scans provide minimal radiation exposure.
Radiation exposure can damage DNA in our cells and increase the risk of various cancers, which is why it’s important to minimize exposure when possible. But with any type of imaging scan, there is some exposure to radiation. While a cone beam CT scan emits a higher radiation than digital x-rays (including a panoramic x-ray), it is significantly less than a conventional CT (computed tomography).
What’s the real radiation dose for a CBCT vs CT? A CBCT scan has a radiation dose of 0.18 mSv (millisievert) and the annual amount of radiation exposure that is deemed a safe level is 1mSv. So a CBCT scan radiation dose is minimal and not considered dangerous to health.
3. CBCT scans allow for convenient cloud storage.
CBCT scans are easy to store, access, and transfer (if necessary.) Cloud storage is a lot more convenient than physical storage, and it reduces the chances of CBCT scans being lost or misplaced. If you ever need your CBCT scans sent to your dentist or other practitioner, we can deliver them through secure cloud sharing in only a few minutes!
4. CBCT scans are environmentally friendly.
Digital imaging is kinder to the environment, because it eliminates unnecessary chemicals and waste from traditional x-ray film processing. To process an x-ray image, chemicals are washed over the film. These chemicals then become toxic waste, which is notorious for destroying habitats in the environment.
CBCT scans don’t require chemicals or paper materials to process images. Instead, they’re downloaded to our database, stored in a secure cloud, and printed only if necessary.
5. CBCT imaging allows us to stay modern and up-to-date.
At Matsumoto Orthodontics & Periodontics, we pride ourselves on being a modern practice with a highly-experienced orthodontist who uses advanced techniques and technologies. (In fact, Dr. Matsumoto is the only dual trained specialist in our area and one of only a few providers in the entire country!)
We’re always looking for new ways to improve our patient experience and make your treatment process more comfortable, efficient, and accurate!
Throughout all of our treatments and technologies, we choose the best for our patients.
Still have questions about CBCT scans?
Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! Dr. Matsumoto is a highly-experienced orthodontist providing expert Invisalign treatment for all ages. If Invisalign isn’t your preferred treatment option, we offer advanced BRIUS (hidden) braces, clear self-ligating braces and metal self-ligating braces too!
Our team is dedicated to helping you find the right solution – whatever it may be. Request your complimentary consultation today to begin your journey!
