Dental Cone Beam CT
3D Imaging For the Mouth
Dentists have several ways of diagnosing dental issues – from traditional and digital x-rays to percussion testing and visual signs that provide information on the health of a tooth. But faster and more accurate diagnostic power is available to the dentist and dental team with the use of Cone Beam technology – a method that incorporates 3D imaging for a complete treatment diagnosis and planning.
Cone Beam Technology in Dentistry
Cone Beam Technology was first introduced to dentistry in Europe in 1996 and to North America in 2001. Initially used to provide a more detailed diagnosis for implant placement and orthodontic treatment planning due to its ability to give a 3-dimensional view of teeth, roots and bone – Cone Beam Technology is now incorporated more widely in dental offices to aid with the treatment planning of Root Canals, Tooth Extraction, and Jaw Surgery cases. Considered a technologically advanced method for capturing images of teeth, bone, nerve pathways and soft tissue all in a single scan – 3D Cone Beam imaging produces high-quality images comparable to a CT Scan – but with less radiation.
How Does 3D Cone Beam Imaging Differ From Traditional X-rays?
Traditional dental x-rays are ‘flat’ images that focus primarily on tooth structure. The flatness or single dimension of these x-rays limits a dentist’s ability to view the image from all angles and manipulate the image. Sufficient for diagnosing obvious dental concerns such as decay, abscesses and missing teeth – traditional x-rays do not provide sufficient diagnostic information for certain procedures that involve all oral tissues. 3D Cone Beam imaging captures in a single scan what multiple traditional x-rays would fail to reveal – making it a viable tool in providing complete and thorough information for accurate treatment planning.
How Are Cone Beam 3D Images Captured?
During the capture of a Cone Beam image the C-arm moves 360° around the patient’s head – taking multiple images as it moves. The images that are taken at different angles are reconstructed to create a 3D image – used to view all angles of a tooth, roots, and bone. The procedure requires no special preparation but metal objects and jewellery that is worn above the neckline will be removed so that it doesn’t interfere with the capturing of the image. As with all dental procedures – women should notify their dental team if they suspect they might be pregnant – and all patients who have not informed their dentist of changes to their medical status should do so prior to the procedure. 3D Cone Beam Imaging is a safe and effective method of capturing diagnostic information that can help in the execution or planning of certain dental procedures. Providing dentists with a complete view of dental tissues this advanced imaging system can determine the suitability of certain procedures and can assist in successful treatment outcomes. Dr. Jess Chhokar and his team at Langdon Dental incorporate the Sirona XG 3D to deliver reliable 3D images for accurate treatment planning.
If you’re interested in Cone Beam technology contact our office and our helpful staff members can help answer any of your questions.
All services are performed by a general dentist

Cone Beam technology helps the dentist create a more complete treatment diagnosis and plan through the use of 3D imaging.

