What Is Cone Beam Computed Tech (CBCT)?

Facial trauma and complex orthodontic problems have a far-reaching impact on people’s lives. It can affect all aspects of daily life, including body image and the ability to eat a normal diet. Getting a prompt treatment plan in place is vital so that any injury damage is repaired and lasting effects kept to a minimum. Cone-beam computed tech (CBCT) is one of the imaging tools used by oral surgeons. Here’s why it is beneficial.

Cone-beam computed tomography is one of the best imaging tools used for examining facial injuries. By getting a 3D detailed image of the injury, an oral surgeon can work out the best way to repair the damage and restore the face in an optimal way, reducing any long term disability. It is a significantly more superior investigation to use than a standard dental x-ray.

If you have a facial injury, it is easy to assume everything is fine, when in fact there may be unseen bone and tissue damage requiring surgery. If you need an oral surgeon in Stillwater OK, COOMSA is a good place to start as our team has access to CBCT. Treatment planning is essential, especially with more complex procedures in endodontic or oral surgery. A CBCT scan gives around 600 detailed images from all dimensions which enable the surgeon to see the extent of damage and how it can be repaired. For the surgeon, all the information is in one place and they have a significant amount of detail to plan the treatment. For patients, there is less risk of something being missed and the CBCT scan will have most of the detail needed, reducing a need for lots of other tests. CBCT is not used in standard oral surgery.

When someone has a cone beam computerized tomography scan, the machine focuses on a specific area of the mouth. The dosage of radiation is significantly less than a standard scan and a chest x-ray. The patient is given a protective tunic to protect from radiation and they either sit or stand in position in the scanner. You simply need to stand still while the machine rotates around the head taking the 3D scan.

If you are looking for an oral surgeon to repair a facial injury or complex orthodontic problems, check whether they have access to CBCT; it could make a difference. If you have questions about this technology or other issue relating to oral surgery, give us a call or schedule a consultation.