Many types of dentistry require digital imaging either for the purpose of an initial analysis or further evaluation of your dental needs. Two key types offered at Ferguson Family Dental are Digital Radiographs and Computed Tomography Cone Beam (CTCB) scans. These use x-rays to produce digital images of the concerned area that a dental professional can use for further analysis.
What is an X-ray?
An X-ray, or X-radiation, is a penetrating form of high-energy electromagnetic radiation. Our preventative dentistry in Barrie uses radiographs for many reasons: to find hidden dental structures, malignant or benign masses, bone loss, and cavities.
What are digital radiographs?
A digital radiograph functions much similar to previous types of x-ray imaging but uses digital sensors instead of photographic output to produce the final image. This gives the dentist, such as your family dentist in Barrie at Ferguson Family Dental, the ability to enhance portions of the image to analyze specific areas of the scan. Furthermore, this process is typically quicker than traditional imaging methods as there is no film to develop. If you’re referred to another specialist, then the file can be sent over to them digitally.
What is a CTCB scan?
A CTCB scan is called “Cone Beam” since it produces divergent x-rays which form a cone shape. The procedure is often used for implant surgery and is therefore a common feature of implant dentistry in Barrie.
How does a CTCB scan work?
The CTCB device is held on a mechanical arm which is rotated around the patient’s head and produces hundreds of images during the procedure. Once the scan has been completed, the images are uploaded into a digital software which compiles them to make a digital representation of the patient’s mouth. From here, our renowned dentists are able to tailor the specifications of the implant to the information produced by the CTCB.
It is important to note that neither of these procedures are meant to be a substitution for a proper dental checkup. They can miss signs of things such as periodontal disease. As such, it is important to maintain regular checkups with the dentist and do proper oral care at home. These steps will allow your dentist in Barrie and yourself to have a better understanding of your mouth’s specific needs.
For more information about dental imaging, please feel free to contact us today or request an appointment online.
