3D Cone Beam (or CBCT)
A 3D Cone Beam (or CBCT) is a special type of x-ray. However, unlike traditional (two-dimensional) x-rays, a cone beam can provide a three-dimensional view of the head, jaw, and mouth. A cone beam can show soft tissues, bones, blood vessels and muscles all on one image. Cone beams are very helpful to diagnose certain dental problems and to plan treatments. For example, when place an implant, a cone beam shows me a more detailed picture of where to place it, as well as the shape and density of the surrounding bone and teeth. For orthodontic treatment, use the cone beam to see both erupted and non-erupted teeth, as well as tooth roots, to make a more exact treatment plan. Cone beam images can also be used as tools to examine TMJ, root canals, root fractures, and dental caries (cavities). Cone beams expose patients to less radiation than a medical CT scan.