Cosmetic Dentistry Directory Blog
Cosmetic Dentistry Directory
Monday, August 23, 2010
New 3D Imaging Technology in Cosmetic Dentistry
Medical imaging technology has been one of the fastest-growing fields in medical innovations for years. CT scans, MRI, and other imaging technologies have revolutionized the way diseases and conditions are diagnosed throughout the world. Many cosmetic dentists and neuromuscular dentists are now taking advantage of new imaging technologies to better diagnose and treat problems like temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and impacted dentition.
One of the newest dental imaging technologies cosmetic dentists are using is known as Cone Beam Tomography (CBCT). The first CBCT imaging system to be approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was the NewTom™ QR-DVT 9000 in 2001. Since then, CBCT machines have continued to develop. The value of the CBCT technology is that it produces a full volumetric, 3D image of the head and neck in just a few minutes. This allows your cosmetic dentist to see the entire musculoskeletal system of your head and neck, enhancing the dentist's knowledge of:
- Bone density and quality
- Dental arch widths before and after treatment
- Orientation of impacted teeth
- Airway issues, including those that lead to obstructive sleep apnea (OSA)
- TMJ position and alignment
With the expanded field of view offered by CBCT imaging technology, your general dentist or cosmetic dentist may even recognize problems beyond the mouth and jaw. While dentists are not necessarily trained in diagnosing soft tissue conditions or brain tissue conditions, they may be the first to catch a serious potential problem and refer you to a physician who can help. With CBCT Cephalograms, some dentists can even routinely identify potential brain tumors and thyroid cancers, which are important to catch early.
To find an experienced cosmetic dentist in your area, please view our nationwide Cosmetic Dentist Directory or contact us directly.
posted by Nathan Graber at 9:30 AM
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