What's Conebeam 3D X-Rays And How Can It Benefit Me?

Three-dimensional images make movies more fun, but they also make it easier for dentists to diagnose and treat some dental conditions and issues. Provo, UT, dentist, Dr. Gary Wiest, describes how Conebeam 3D X-rays work and explains how they can help you.

The 3D advantage

Traditional dental X-rays offer a two-dimensional view of your teeth and mouth. Although these X-rays can identify many dental issues, the pictures they produce don't always provide enough information to make a definitive diagnosis. Unlike traditional X-rays, Conebeam 3D X-rays can trace the path of the nerves in your face and provide three-dimensional images of your teeth and the bones and tissues in your mouth and face.

Conebeam 3D X-rays are created using computed tomography (CT) technology. The X-ray machine emits a cone-shaped beam that allows it to capture multiple images of your mouth. Those images are combined to create the 3D images that will help your dentist identify problems and plan your treatment.

When is the Conebeam 3D system used?

Because radiation exposure is higher with the Conebeam system, it's not used for routine dental X-rays. When you visit the office of Dr. Gary Wiest, he may recommend a 3D X-ray to view the position of impacted wisdom teeth or find the source of mouth or jaw pain. The X-rays are often used to plan dental implant surgery since they're very effective at identifying the position of nerves and sinus cavities. The Conebeam 3D system also produces clear representations of bones and jaw tumors.

What happens when I receive a Conebeam X-ray?

During a Conebeam X-ray, a small probe will be placed in your mouth, then the machine will rotate around your head. The images it takes are originally in 2D but are combined to create three-dimensional images. Before the X-ray begins, you'll need to remove jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids and any other objects or devices that contain metal. The entire X-ray process takes less than a minute. After reviewing the 3D images, Dr. Wiest will prepare a treatment plan to address your issue.

Conebeam 3D X-rays offer important information your dentist needs to provide quality care. Are you concerned about a dental problem? Call your Provo, UT, dentist, Dr. Wiest, at (801) 374-8205 to schedule an appointment.