3D IMAGING
WOODLAND HILLS, CA
Your mouth consists of several components that enable it to perform a wide variety of functions. While there are many parts of your mouth that we can see, there are also many that we cannot. To diagnose oral health issues, and provide you with the best possible treatment, we often need to be able to see the hidden components of your mouth. At Woodland Hills Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, one way in which we can do this is with 3D imaging.
WHAT IS 3D IMAGING?
3D imaging is a type of imaging that uses digital technology to take pictures of the structures inside of your mouth, including the ones hidden from view. The technology used is similar to that of the technology used to capture digital X-rays while the actual images are similar to those captured by CT scans.
To capture images, 3D imaging utilizes a cone-shaped X-ray beam that rotates a full 360 degrees around your head. At the beam moves, it captures several images. As soon as the scan is complete, a process that takes less than a minute, all of the images are fit together to create one single 3-dimensional picture. This picture shows your soft tissues, your bones, your teeth, and your nerves. It can then be used to make a much more accurate diagnosis and a much more effective treatment plan.
HOW CAN 3D IMAGING BE USED?
3D imaging is a valuable tool and can be used for a variety of different purposes.
- Diagnosing impacted teeth.
- Examining sinus cavities and nasal passageways.
- Looking at the nerve passageways.
- Diagnosing causes of temporomandibular joint disorder.
- Evaluating tumors found within the jaw.
- Determining candidacy for dental implants, including if there is a need for a bone graft.
- Planning jaw or oral reconstructive surgery.
THE 3D IMAGING PROCEDURE
3D imaging is a simple, straightforward procedure. Before your scan, we will advise you to remove all jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and facial piercings. Any hair accessories containing metal will need to be removed, as will glasses and hearing aids if you wear them.
Once you are ready, you are instructed to sit down at the machine and place your chin on the rest. We make any necessary adjustments to ensure that we get the best image possible. The scan takes less than 60 seconds to complete, but it is important that you remain still the entire time. The process is completely painless. After the scan is complete, it only takes a few extra seconds for the final 3D image to be displayed on a computer monitor.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF 3D IMAGING?
Benefits of 3D imaging include:
• It is completely painless.
• It takes less than a minute to complete.
• We are provided with a high-quality image that shows bones, teeth, soft tissue, and nerves.
• We can see your mouth from a variety of different angles.
• Software allows us to manipulate the images so that we can see the smallest details in your mouth.
• The image provides exact one to one measurements, which helps us to design perfectly fitted restorations.
With 3D images of your mouth, we can see your whole mouth. This enables us to make a more accurate diagnosis and a more effective treatment plan. As a result, we can help to restore the health of your mouth, and your quality of life. For more information, call Woodland Hills Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery today at (818) 999-0900.