Cone Beam Machine | Hi Tech Dentistry Near Me

 Cone Beam Machine | Hi Tech Dentistry Near Me 

What is a cone beam machine and how is it used? 

Cone-beam computed tomography systems (CBCT) are a variation of traditional computed tomography (CT) systems. The CBCT systems used by dental professionals rotate around the patient, capturing data using a cone-shaped X-Ray beam. Cone beam CT provides detailed images of the bone and is performed to evaluate diseases of the jaw, dentition, bony structures of the face, nasal cavity and sinuses. Cone beam imaging is accomplished by using a rotating gantry to which an x-ray source and detector are fixed. A divergent pyramidal- or cone-shaped source of ionizing radiation is directed through the middle of the area of interest onto an area x-ray detector on the opposite side. Dental cone beam CT was developed as a means of producing similar types of images but with a much smaller and less expensive machine that could be placed in an outpatient office. Cone beam CT provides detailed images of the bone and is performed to evaluate diseases of the jaw, dentition, bony structures of the face, nasal cavity and sinuses. It does not provide the full diagnostic information available with conventional CT, particularly in evaluation of soft tissue structures such as muscles, lymph nodes, glands and nerves. However, cone beam CT has the advantage of lower radiation exposure compared to conventional CT. 

Why would your dentist take a cone beam? 

Dental cone beam CT is commonly used for treatment planning of dental implants and full mouth reconstructive cases. These images give a 3D image of the patients anatomy so this dental technology provides a ton of insight into the proper planning and placement of restorations.  

Take a look at a few of the videos below, as we have some step by step instructions on how to setup and use the Planmeca ProMax Cone Beam Technology: