Dental CT scans play an extremely important role in the planning the future locations of implants. It is rare today to find a surgeon willing to take the risk of placing titanium fixtures without a CT scan. Computed tomography is often combined with digital software that helps to specify the arch location, depth, and axial inclinations of implants. If you’re reading this blog then you have probably read other blogs regarding dentistry including those about dental implants. Dental implants are used to permanently replace missing teeth and restore your smile and chewing function. Implants require a complex surgical procedure to place and consist of a titanium post which acts as the root of the tooth, an abutment (placed on the top of the post) and a fabricated tooth which is permanently bonded to the abutment. At Lake Forest Dental computed tomography is used to allow precision placement of implants.
Computed tomography in dentistry
Placing a dental implant requires precision placement to avoid complications. There are many things that have to be taken into consideration when placing an implant post. High resolution computed tomography (CT) is used to determine the appropriate site, angle, and size of the implant to be placed. Dental CT scans can also provide information as to whether or not there is a need for pre-implantation ridge surgery, and bone quality and quantity with the use of additional software.
How Dental CT scans Work
An imaging procedure that uses special x-ray equipment, computed tomography creates a series of detailed pictures, or scans, of areas inside the body. While sending x-rays through the area to be captured, a thin slice of the area being studied is provided with each rotation of the scanner. These thin slices are then saved as a group. Dental CT scans are used to study all parts of the body including internal organs such as your heart and lungs, bones, blood vessels, arms, and legs, and are especially detailed allowing precision placement of implants into the jaw.
Learn more about how CT exams help with implant treatment planning
Aside from providing dependable general and restorative dentistry services to our community, Dr. James Fondriest also holds respected academic appointments at the Pankey Institute in Key Biscayne, FL, and the Spear Institute in Scottsdale, AZ, and he is an adjunct Associate Professor in the Department of Prosthodontics at the University of Florida Dental School. At Lake Forest Dental Arts, Dr. Fondriest combines his impressive array of experience with modern technology and caring, compassionate, knowledgeable staff, and we proudly serve patients from Chicago and all surrounding communities. To schedule a consultation, call our office today at (847) 234-0517.