Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)
Since it was brought into our practice, the Carestream 8100 3D extraoral imaging system has greatly aided our ability to diagnose and treat, both surgically and nonsurgically, pathology of endodontic origin. It is a tool that is only used when necessary. In these situations, CBCT scans can show things that can be completely invisible in traditional two dimensional radiography that can have a dramatic impact on treatment planning, treatment execution and prognosis assessment.
The machine can capture an incredibly high resolution image of the area of interest, including the tooth in question, in addition to a few neighboring teeth and the supporting jaw bone. The machine is configured in such a way as to image only the area of interest, providing an excellent three dimensional representation of the structures that indicate evaluation, and it does so with the smallest dose of radiation to the patient as possible.
