Skip to main content

Dental Implant Planning | Latest Cone Beam Imaging Technology

 Dental Implant Planning | Latest Cone Beam Imaging Technology 

There have been a ton of advancements in dental implant technologies over the past 15 years. In this blog we will highlight some of the major develops in the dental implant space. Dental implant imaging and dental implant planning have come a very far way in a short time, and the technology that has allowed these advancements is called a cone beam machine.  

A cone beam machine, also known as a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanner, is a medical imaging device used in dental and maxillofacial imaging. It provides a three-dimensional view of the patient's oral and facial structures, including teeth, jaws, and surrounding tissues.

Unlike traditional two-dimensional dental X-rays, which capture flat images, cone beam machines use a cone-shaped X-ray beam to produce a series of high-resolution images that are reconstructed into a three-dimensional image. This allows for a more comprehensive assessment of dental and facial anatomy.

Cone beam machines are commonly used in dentistry for various purposes, including:

  1. Dental Implant Planning: CBCT scans provide detailed information about the quality and quantity of the patient's jawbone, allowing dentists to plan and guide the placement of dental implants more accurately.

  2. Orthodontics: CBCT scans aid orthodontists in assessing the alignment and positioning of teeth and jaws, facilitating treatment planning for braces and other orthodontic interventions.

  3. Endodontics: CBCT scans help endodontists visualize the root canal anatomy and diagnose complex root canal cases more effectively.

  4. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery: CBCT scans assist in the evaluation of impacted teeth, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders, jaw abnormalities, and preoperative planning for surgical procedures.

  5. Periodontics: CBCT scans provide a detailed assessment of the bone structure around teeth, helping periodontists diagnose and plan treatment for gum disease and bone loss.

Cone beam machines are known for their low radiation dose compared to traditional medical CT scanners, making them a safer option for dental imaging. However, it's important to note that radiation exposure should always be minimized, and the use of CBCT scans should be justified based on clinical need.

 

 

Anther big dental implant development in recent years is in dental implant materials. Titanium implants have been the gold standard for many years due to their biocompatibility and osseointegration properties. However, advancements in materials have led to the development of alternative options. Zirconia implants are gaining popularity due to their tooth-like appearance and excellent tissue compatibility. These metal-free implants are particularly suitable for patients with metal allergies or those seeking a more aesthetically pleasing solution.  

Dental implant technologies and equipment continue to evolve. At Ladd Dental Group, we pride ourselves on using the most up to date technologies and materials. If you are interested in learning more about what dental implants can do for you and your smile, give our remarkable team a call today! 




 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Sedation Dentistry | Adult Sedation Dentistry | Sedation Dentistry in McCordsville

Sedation Dentistry in McCordsville, Indiana  Nearly half of all North Americans don’t go to the dentist every year.   The number one reason, according to the American Dental Association, is fear.  But fear isn’t the only reason.  People have busy lives and little time for repeated visits to the dentist. Some don't see the importance of keeping their teeth.  And there are a host of other reasons as well.  Whatever your reason, or the reasons for someone close to you, know this – you are not alone!  Sedation Dentistry is here to help you, as it has so many other patients, safely and effectively get the care you need in a safe and comfortable environment for the best dental experience you’ve ever had. This isn’t a One Size Fits All Each patient is unique. That means that whatever medications you may be taking, dental treatments needed, or the years away from the dentist – there is a safe and effective way to get the smi...

Dr. Steven Mah | Welcome To The LADD Dental Group Family

 We are thrilled to introduce Dr. Steven Mah , our newest addition to the LADD Dental Group family. Dr. Mah was born and raised in Evansville, IN, where his passion for helping others began. He pursued a Biology degree at the University of Southern Indiana, graduating in 2019. Driven by his dedication to the dental profession, Dr. Mah went on to earn his Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree from the Indiana University School of Dentistry in 2024. Dr. Mah is excited to join the LADD Dental team and is eager to bring his expertise and compassionate care to our patients. He looks forward to providing top-notch dental care and getting to know each of our wonderful patients personally. Outside of the office, Dr. Mah enjoys spending quality time with friends and family, whether it's through lively board game nights, exploring new and exciting cuisines, or staying active. Lately, he’s developed a passion for pickleball, and you might even find him on the courts in his free time! Pl...

Dental Work | Importance of Routine Dental Care | Preventative Dental Care

Importance of Routine Dental Care  When I was in my 30s and a dentist told me I needed a few crowns , I decided to skip the expensive devices because of my meager paycheck. Besides, my teeth weren't hurting. Years later, I am paying the price in pain and costlier dental work . One of the damaged teeth that needed a crown distorted my bite, making a minor jaw-joint problem even worse. Unfortunately I'm far from alone. The price of dental care is steep for many people financially, physically and even socially, according to Marko Vujicic, chief economist and vice president of the Health Policy Institute at the American Dental Association. Vujicic said that the  majority of emergency room dental visits  were for infections that could be handled in a dentist's office. Overall, emergency room dental visits cost $1.9 billion yearly, 40 percent of which is public money, according to his institute's analysis of data from the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quali...