Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT)

Craig H. Rubinoff, DDS, MS – Poway CA

Conventional dental x-rays and clinical evaluations have been used to assist in the diagnosis and treatment planning of Dental Implant placement. Conventional x-rays are of limited use as they only display the images in two dimensions (i.e. length and height). Modern imaging technology utilizing Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT) known as CAT scan, CT scan, or Cone Beam Imaging allows computerized 3-D visualization of the actual bone architecture and density. This technology has reduced the guesswork with implant placement by increasing the precision and predictability of the procedure. The CBCT allows us to:

• Visualize the 3-D anatomy of the bone and teeth of the jaw and see vital structures such as the mandibular (lower jaw) nerve, the maxillary (upper jaw) sinuses, and adjacent teeth roots.
• Plan your implant surgery on the computer and fabricate a Customized Surgical Guide to direct the exact placement of the dental implant(s) with great precision.
• Determine the bone quality and density in the proposed dental implant site.

Cone Beam CT Scanning is safe. The amount of radiation is 50-100 times less than that of a conventional medical CT scanner. The scan itself takes less than one minute. The CBCT scan images are downloaded onto our computer. Dr. Rubinoff plans the placement of each dental implant on the computer. The images of the final treatment plan are uploaded electronically to a dental laboratory facility to have the customized surgical guide fabricated.