Tomography

Dental tomography is a type of radiography technique used in dentistry to obtain detailed images of the jawbones and teeth. Images obtained from dental CT or tomography provide dentists with detailed data about both the teeth and the structure of the jawbones. Thanks to this technology, dentists can make accurate decisions regarding implant placement, evaluate the need for endodontic treatment, and assess the structure of teeth and jawbones. Adana-based dental clinic Dentrum provides services with state-of-the-art equipment in the field of dentistry. So who is dental tomography used for? Why is it necessary and important? How is it performed and what are its areas of use? Let’s explore together.

What is Dental Tomography?

Dental Tomography (Dental CT) images are formed from multiple low-dose X-ray scans. All scans are collected in a single cycle. The dental CT device is designed as a rotating system created with a tube and a detector. The detector and tube rotate around the patient’s jaw, performing low-dose X-ray scanning. As a result of all these scans, a three-dimensional and detailed image is obtained.

Dental tomography images provide dentists with data on many issues. This enables accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Who is Dental Tomography Used For?

Dental tomography is a type of radiography technique used to examine medical conditions related to the mouth and teeth. With dental tomography, the health of the gums can be analyzed, information about tooth alignment can be obtained, and it provides proper planning for treatments such as tooth extraction and dental implants.

Dental tomography technology is used in cases where large metal objects in the mouth or conditions after tooth extraction prevent the use of standard radiography. It is also highly useful in diagnosing problems in areas of the mouth that cannot be seen directly. In general, dental tomography plays an important role in the planning stage of dental treatments. In addition, it is used in detecting tumors in the oral cavity or certain dental abnormalities.

Why is Dental Tomography Important and Necessary?

• Dental tomography is one of the most important diagnostic tools in dentistry, as it provides the highest level of detail in imaging teeth and bones. With dental tomography, the dentist can analyze the patient’s dental structure more accurately and create the most appropriate treatment plan.
• It has a high success rate in diagnosing oral and dental problems and detecting tumors. The results of dental tomography serve as a guide for treatment.

How is Dental Tomography Performed?

• The dental tomography examination is performed by dentists in clinical settings.
• It is one of the most important diagnostic tools in dentistry, as it provides the highest level of detail in imaging teeth and bones. With dental tomography, the dentist can analyze the patient’s dental structure more accurately and create the most appropriate treatment plan.
• First, the patient is directed to the area where the radiographic imaging will be performed.
• Then, a cage-like dental tomography device is placed in the patient’s mouth and positioned in the target area.
• Dental tomography has a high success rate in diagnosing oral and dental problems and detecting tumors. The results serve as a guide for treatment.
• The patient is positioned appropriately to obtain more accurate data from the targeted area.
• The dental tomography device scans the area and begins producing images. During this process, which takes only a few seconds, the patient is asked to hold their breath.
• After the scan is completed, the obtained images are examined and analyzed by the dentist.
• The dentist informs the patient about the treatment plan based on the analysis of the tomography images.
• Dental tomography is a painless, comfortable, and non-invasive procedure. However, patients who are highly sensitive to radiation may feel minimal discomfort. In such cases, special precautions are taken by the dentist to ensure patient comfort.

When Should I Get a Dental Tomography Scan?

Dental tomography is performed when deemed necessary by the dentist. It is especially required during the treatment planning stage. It is particularly useful before implant treatments. It is also used to detect hidden abnormalities in teeth and tumors in the mouth.

What Are the Uses of Dental Tomography?

Dental tomography technology is used to obtain detailed images of teeth and bones. Its uses include:

Tooth Extractions

Dental tomography is used before tooth extraction to analyze the position of teeth in the mouth, allowing the dentist to plan treatment accurately.

Dental Implants

Before implant treatment, dental tomography is used to evaluate the suitability of the gums and jawbone. It also helps determine implant placement.

Large Metal Objects in the Mouth

One of the important uses of dental tomography is determining the location of metal objects in the mouth.

Detection of Oral and Dental Abnormalities

Dental tomography is one of the most important technologies used in detecting oral and dental abnormalities. It enables early diagnosis and timely treatment.

Detection of Tumors in the Mouth

Dental tomography provides dentists with a significant advantage in detecting oral tumors. It allows early diagnosis and treatment before serious complications arise.

Is Dental Tomography Harmful?

Dental tomography is an advanced imaging technology that uses low-dose radiation to examine oral and dental health. Modern dental CT devices used today produce very low levels of radiation and complete scanning in a short time. It provides detailed images for procedures such as implant planning, impacted teeth analysis, and jaw surgery. This significantly increases diagnostic accuracy and treatment success. Dental tomography should be performed under the supervision of a specialist dentist when necessary.

Difference Between Dental Tomography and Panoramic X-ray

Panoramic X-rays provide two-dimensional images, whereas dental tomography provides three-dimensional images. This allows for a more comprehensive examination of bone density, bone volume, nerve canals, and tooth roots. Precise millimeter-level measurements can be made for implant placement. Dental tomography makes these measurements possible.

How Long Does Dental Tomography Take?

Dental tomography usually takes between ten and thirty seconds. Including preparation, the process is completed within a few minutes. It is a painless, fast, and comfortable diagnostic tool. After the scan, the patient can continue their daily life without interruption.

What Should Be Considered Before Dental Tomography?

Before the scan, all metal accessories on the patient must be removed. Items such as glasses, necklaces, removable prostheses, or earrings may affect image quality. Patients who may be pregnant must inform their dentist before the procedure.

What Should Be Considered After Dental Tomography?

There is no recovery process after dental tomography. As a non-invasive procedure, it does not affect daily life. However, the obtained images must be evaluated by a specialist dentist for accurate interpretation.

Is Dental Tomography Performed in Children?

In children, dental tomography is performed only when necessary. It may be used in cases such as impacted teeth, orthodontic planning, or jaw development disorders. Modern devices use low radiation doses and can be made safe for children with protective measures.

Can Pregnant Women Have Dental Tomography?

During pregnancy, radiological imaging should be postponed unless absolutely necessary. However, in emergencies, a dentist may decide to perform dental tomography with protective equipment. This decision must be made by an experienced specialist dentist.

Why is Dental Tomography Important in Implant Treatment?

Dental tomography is one of the most important stages of implant treatment. It allows detailed analysis of jawbone width, density, and height. It also identifies nerve canals and anatomical structures. This ensures safe and accurate implant placement, directly affecting treatment success.

Importance of Dental Tomography in Orthodontic Treatment

In orthodontic planning, dental tomography allows detailed evaluation of impacted teeth, tooth root positions, and jaw structure. It supports accurate planning of braces and clear aligner treatments.

What Diseases Can Be Diagnosed with Dental Tomography?

Dental tomography is useful in diagnosing the following conditions:

• Impacted teeth
• Dental cysts and tumors
• Sinus problems
• Jawbone loss
• Tooth root infections
• Bone loss
• Orthodontic disorders
• Implant planning

Advantages of Dental Tomography

The advantages of dental tomography include:

• Simplifies treatment planning
• Provides three-dimensional and comprehensive imaging
• Increases implant success rate
• Clearly visualizes impacted teeth
• Enables early diagnosis of many conditions
• Painless and fast procedure
• Provides detailed analysis of jawbone structure
• Reduces risks in surgical treatments

Dental Tomography Prices

The cost of dental tomography varies depending on the technology of the device used, the imaging area, and the clinic’s pricing policy. The dentist’s expertise and experience may also affect the price. For up-to-date information about dental tomography prices in Adana, you can contact a dental clinic. The main factors affecting the price include:

• Whether single jaw or both jaws are scanned
• Three-dimensional imaging quality
• Need for implant planning
• Technology of the device used
• Clinic pricing policy
• Doctor’s expertise and experience

Regions We Provide Dental Tomography Services

Dentrum Dental and Oral Health Clinic, based in Adana, also provides dental tomography services to patients coming from nearby provinces such as Hatay, Mersin, and Osmaniye.