Dental Advise |2 min read

What is a 3D Dental Scan?

3D movies, 3D books, 3D printing and now 3D dental scans? Do I have to wear those funny looking glasses? Will I get motion sickness or up close and personal with all sorts of creatures? Don’t get yourself into dental distress! 3D dental scans are the newest advancement in technology that your dentist can use to get a good idea of what’s really going on with your chompers — no silly glasses needed.

History of 3D Dental Scans

A 3D dental scan, also known as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), was first used in its archaic form by German dentist, Otto Walkoff, who made the first dental radiograph ever. He recorded it with a 25-minute exposure using a glass receptor in his mouth while lying on the floor of his dental treatment room. Thankfully, dentistry has come a long way since then, and the quality of the images produced have, too.

3D Dental Scans Today

Today, 3D scans are much quicker and significantly more comfortable. 3D dental imaging uses an X-ray arm that rotates around your head. While rotating, it captures multiple images and sends them to a computer where the computer puts the images together in 3D format. Dentists get a very clear and concise picture of things that you can’t see with the naked eye, which makes it easier for them to safely diagnose and even customize your treatment.

Scanners like the Prexion 3-D (what we use!) are top of the class when it comes to 3D dental imaging. The Prexion takes a crystal clear 1:1 image of your teeth, mouth and jaw, which gives your dentist incredibly accurate measurements. These scans can even be used in early detection of dental conditions which could save you a lot of appointments in the long run. 3D dental scans can also be used when planning for surgery, evaluating the jaw or sinuses, and even reconstructive surgery such as dental implants.

If you think you may be a candidate for dental implants, or would like some more information on 3D scans and what they can do for you and your specific situation, ask your dentist! If you’re ready to take the next steps, and are looking for a dentist in the West Chester area, contact us or give us a call at 610-696-3371 to schedule your 3D Diagnostic Scan!