Panoramic X-rays and CT scans

Panoramic X-ray

When planning for dental implants, imaging methods like dental X-rays, CT scan is an important diagnostic tool. Imaging methods will give precise information and reveal the positioning of wisdom teeth, reveal preliminary signs of cavities, and also show fractures and bone loss, and to check whether dental implants will affect the mandibular nerve. Providing an ear-to-ear two-dimensional view of both the upper and lower jaw, the specialist is able to devise an accurate treatment plan. Panoramic X-rays are safer than other types of X-rays because less radiation enters the body. They are generally only taken on an as-needed basis. Panoramic X-rays provide a better view of the sinus areas, nasal areas, and mandibular nerve.

 

Important details the Panoramic X-ray shows:

  • the positioning of wisdom teeth
  • preliminary signs of cavities and possible infections
  • fractures and bone loss
  • structures that have to be avoided by dental implants: maxillary sinus, mandibular nerve
  • the position of the remaining natural teeth

CT scan

A computed tomography (CT) scan is an imaging method that uses a combination of X-rays and a computer to create pictures of your organs, bones, and other tissues. A CT scan provides three-dimensional images of a high quality and extreme complexity. The software is becoming a viable tool in the diagnosing of dental implant position and placement. It shows more detail than a regular X-ray.

CT scan software allows the dentist to see the bone quantity and quality and also can be used to virtually place dental implants using computer program prior to any surgical intervention. This way it eliminates the possible manual placement errors and matches planning to prosthetic requirements.

Important details the CT scan shows:

  • bone infections
  • possible tumors
  • blood vessels
  • the position of important anatomical structures
  • CT scan in complex cases helps the surgeon identify and avoid vital structures such as mandibular nerve and the sinus.

The CT scan procedure doesn’t take very long, and it’s painless.

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