Cone Beam Scanner

~ Sujin and Thomas

What is the Cone Beam and how do you use it in your practice?

Cone beam scanning technology has several advantages over traditional CT scan technology. When used in dentistry, cone beam reduces the patient’s exposure to radiation. The beam is focused with a large sensor, allowing the dentist to cover the face and the jaws in a single scan.

When the cone beam machine is available at the dentist’s office, it helps to provide maximum useful information with minimum radiation exposure for the patient. While a CT scan provides a 2D image of the jaw, the cone beam scan provides a real reproduction of the jaw in 3D. The dimensions measured by the cone beam are 100 percent accurate and the distortions of panoramic radiographs get eliminated with this technology. Cone beam 3D imaging enables the dentist to make correct treatment planning before the dental implant. The dentist is able to pinpoint the precise location where the implant must be placed. He can also get a clear view of the surrounding anatomic structures and nerves. Furthermore, the 3D image helps the dentist to measure the precise dimensions of the bone and the strength of the bone. This information is critical for a successful dental implant.

Another key advantage of cone beam 3D imaging is that it allows the dentist to share the visual diagnosis with the patient. This enables the patient to understand the exact procedure and reduces his or her anxiety levels. When the patient is fully educated about the procedure, his or her confidence in the treatment increases.

Cone beam technology also helps the dentist screen the patient for cancers. It also helps to identify whether there are any cysts or tumors around the wisdom teeth. So there are collateral benefits of this scanning technology in a dentist’s office.