Why Choose an Implant Dentist with a CBCT Scanner?

March 3, 2023

Filed under: Uncategorized — Steve Koo @ 3:58 pm
Cone beam scanner in oral surgeon’s office

Many dentists and specialists offer dental implant treatment. However, not all of them have the same technology at their disposal. It is important to note what instruments they use so you can be sure that you will get the best care during every stage of your treatment. In particular, you should look for someone who uses a cone beam scanner (also called a CBCT scanner). Why should you choose an implant dentist with a CBCT scanner? Continue reading to find out.

What Is a CBCT Scanner?

CBCT stands for “cone beam computer tomography.” This machine is essentially a high-powered X-ray. It uses the same type of radiation as a regular X-ray, but the radiation is emitted in a cone-shaped beam. This special design allows it to capture extremely detailed, three-dimensional images of a patient’s oral structures, including the teeth, jawbone, nerves, and connective tissues.

The Role of a CBCT Scanner in Dental Implant Treatment

A CBCT scanner can be important both before and after dental implants are placed. For example, during the planning stages of treatment, a dentist can use images from the machine to determine if your jawbone is strong enough to support dental implants. They can also use the data to plan exactly where, how deep, and at what angle to insert your implants.

Many dentists even use their CBCT machine to create a surgical guide. The guide, which comes from a laboratory and is based on data from a CBCT scan, minimizes human error during the implant placement procedure.

After dental implants are placed in the jawbone, the CBCT scanner can help your dental team determine how well your body is integrating with them. If you experience any problems with your implants, the machine may play an important role in the diagnostic process.

How to Find a Dentist with a CBCT Machine

If a dentist has a CBCT machine, you will probably find information about it on their website. However, more research is necessary. Here are some important questions to ask:

  • Is the dentist a general practitioner, or are they a specialist? (For example, are they an oral surgeon?)
  • What additional qualifications do they have for performing dental implant surgery?
  • Do they offer guided dental implant surgery?
  • What other technology do they have that might enhance your treatment experience?

A cone beam scanner can play a key role in rebuilding your smile! It would be wise to choose an implant dentist who uses this technology.

Meet the Practice

Drs. Steve Koo and William Shepard are the experienced, board-certified oral & maxillofacial surgeons in our Katy office. They utilize a cone beam scanner and other advanced technology with the goal of helping patients enjoy optimal treatment outcomes. To learn more about them and how our team may be able to serve you, contact us at 832-353-1100.