Comparing Cone Beam Technology with Traditional CT Scans

These days, the introduction of technological innovations is a regular, everyday thing for people. Upon turning on their TV or logging onto the internet, they are immediately exposed to news about the latest and greatest advances in technology. The field of dentistry is no exemption. New dental procedures and equipment are continuously being developed to provide people with the best dental care possible.


In Los Angeles, California, one of the most recent technological trends to hit the mainstream is the use of Cone Beam technology in dental imaging. Unlike traditional CT scans wherein a person is required to sit still in front of a scanner, Cone Beam technology makes use of a rotating digital x-ray scanner to capture the image of a person’s dental structure. Comparison of the two methods would show that Cone Beam imaging is a viable alternative to CT scans.


The basic difference between the image output of a traditional CT scan and a Cone Beam is that the former captures a 2D image, while the latter forms a 3D model. The advantage of a three-dimensional image is it allows dentists to accurately plot their treatments and procedures through the full view of the actual arrangement of their patient’s teeth. While CT scan images can be improved via computer manipulation, 3D images allow practitioners to be more accurate.


Cosmetic dentistry Los Angeles practices that use the traditional CT scan method know that several scans have to be made in order to have a complete picture of a patient’s dental situation. Since several passes are required, the patient is then exposed to more radiation. On the other hand, because the Cone Beam scanner is attached to a rotating arm, it can get the necessary images in just one 360-degree sweep. Therefore, less radiation is involved in the process.


There are several varieties of Cone Beam scanners that cosmetic dentistry Los Angeles practitioners can choose from. Each option has distinct features that may or may not make it appealing for a cosmetic dentist. However, Cone Beam technology has across-the-board benefits for both professionals and their patients.


It would be helpful for a patient considering dental implants and other intensive dental procedures to ask if his or her cosmetic dentistry Los Angeles practice currently offers Cone Beam scans. This way, he or she can access the benefits that this dental imaging technology can provide.