A dental CT scan is an imaging test that creates detailed images of your teeth, mouth, and jaw. CT scans allow our dentist to diagnose and treat issues with your teeth, gums, and jaw. 

A dental CT scan is different than an X-ray because it is shot from different angles in rapid succession, creating a 3D image of your oral anatomy. The scan is especially useful for detecting tooth decay and determining bone levels.

What Happens During a CT Scan?

During a dental CT scan, you will stand still while a cone-shaped machine rotates around your head to take various images of the teeth and jaw from multiple angles. This will be done while your jaw is placed in an open position, which may feel slightly uncomfortable but should not hurt. 

Once all of the pictures are taken, the images will be combined to create a 3D model of your mouth that can be examined by our dentist.

Why Use a CT Scan?

Traditional film-based X-rays are two-dimensional images that can only show a limited view of your oral cavity. A cone beam scanner allows our dentist to see your entire mouth in high resolution from all angles. The 3D images allow us a better look at your bite and jaw joints for any potential issues. We can measure the exact tooth length for restorations and the TMJ for orthodontic treatment planning. We can also detect and treat oral pathologies such as cysts and tumors.

Many patients also appreciate the convenience of digital scans as opposed to physical copies. After your appointment is complete, we will personally review the images with you on a TV screen. You can learn about your oral health in a way you can understand, and we can answer any questions you have about the next steps in your care.

What Are the Advantages of Using a CT Scan?

A panoramic X-ray is a two-dimensional image, while a CT scan produces a three-dimensional image of your oral and maxillofacial structure. The images from your CT scan can be used to help our dentist in Cypress diagnose potential issues more accurately, as well as plan your treatment more effectively.

A CT scan is particularly useful when our Cypress dentist needs a detailed view of teeth or bones that are impacted or appear abnormal, such as wisdom teeth or impacted canines. It can also be used to accurately determine the placement of dental implants for patients who need them.

At Charles E. Dyer, IV, DDS, MS, PC, we routinely use digital imaging technology. Digital images provide outstanding detail, reduce radiation exposure by as much as 80 percent, and are faster and easier for our dentist to use. This helps us diagnose oral health issues quickly and effectively.

In addition to providing a high-quality view of your teeth and jaw, our digital imaging systems let us view the images immediately. That means we can share the results with our patients right away and discuss any concerns they may have about upcoming treatment.

If you have any questions about how a CT scan can benefit your smile, please contact us today. For the best dental care, visit Charles E. Dyer, IV, DDS, MS, PC, at 16316 Spring Cypress Rd, Cypress, TX 77429, or call (281) 304-9911.