Explaining the importance of a 3D scan

Question: What is a 3D scan and why is it important in implant dentistry?

Answer: A 3D scan – or cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) produces a threedimensional image. It yields a length, width and depth image of your anatomy that is being examined for possible implant placement.

A regular dental X-ray gives a two-dimensional image (length and width). It’s that third dimension – depth – that is so valuable in determining the full anatomy of your jaw.

This extra view helps dentists who do implants place them in the computer software. Thus, they can visualize the amount of bone that surrounds the implant in all positions. This aids the dentists in predicting confidently that there is adequate bone to accommodate the implant.

In addition, CBCT technology is good for differentiating the pathology of diseases, as well as plotting anatomical structures. The infra alveolar nerve, for instance, is one of these anatomical landmarks we need to be aware of. The nerve is located beneath the lower teeth, sitting on the side of your chin where it supplies feeling to your chin, lower lip and teeth. This is a structure that the dentist needs to know the exact location of in order to be certain that an implant can be place a safe distance away from it. Otherwise, the nerve could be damage.

If you are planning any dental implant treatment, it’s important that one of the diagnostic tools to help determine implant position and placement is a CBCT exam. Each one of our patients who requires implant dentistry – from a single implant to a major case – has a CBCT exam performed. There are just too many hidden dental landmines with a twodimension panorex or periapical film.

Mitchel Senft, DMD, DICOI South Florida Sedation Dentistry Address: 6633 Forest Hill Blvd., West Palm Beach, FL 33413 Phone: (561) 967-2001 Website: South Florida Sedation Dentistry.com