3D Cone Beam and 3D Dental Scans San Diego, CA
3D Cone Beam and Dental Scan utilizes technology to provide a quick, painless, and comprehensive look at the teeth and the surrounding dental structures. Many complete health dentists assess the structures of the mouth using a technology that goes beyond the traditional X-ray called Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT), also referred to as a "3D Cone Beam," "3D Dental Scan," or "Beam CT." Traditional X-rays only provide images of your dental structures from one plane, meaning that if your dentist needs to zero in on a particular area, you may have to have additional X-ray views taken.
This is where 3D cone beam technology comes in and offers a more efficient option. For more information about 3D dental scanners, our team at Mission Valley Dental Arts in San Diego is here to help. Call us at (619) 805-4248 to learn more.
How 3D Imaging Works
A 3D cone beam machine resembles conventional CT scan machines and comes in two different structures: an upright chair for sitting or a moveable table for lying down. Depending on the procedure and type of machine being used, the patient will be seated in an exam chair or lie down on an exam table. The chair has an extendable arm (C-arm) while the table has a rotator (gantry) that both rotate 360 degrees around the patient's head, taking multiple images at once.
The images are taken at different angles and gathered to create a single 3D image. According to the Radiology organization, "In a single rotation, the detector can generate anywhere between 150 to 200 high resolution two-dimensional (2-D) images, which are then digitally combined to form a 3-D image that can provide your dentist or oral surgeon with valuable information about your oral and craniofacial health." The 3D image is available as soon as the scan is complete, allowing the doctor to discuss the patient's treatment plan in the same visit.
“The chair has an extendable arm (C-arm) while the table has a rotator (gantry) that both rotate 360 degrees around the patient’s head, taking multiple images at once.”
Differences Between Traditional and Cone Beam
Traditional CT scanners and cone beam CT scanners both undertake the same basic function, but technical differences set them apart.
Traditional CT Scans
A traditional CT scan takes several pictures of internal body structures from multiple X-ray images generated by a computer. Atlantis, a radiology equipment company, explains, "The x-rays utilize radiation from a radioactive contrast injected into the body to create cross-sectional images." Traditional CT scans can offer a variety of benefits, primarily for surgeries and diagnostics.
Cone Beam CT Scans
Cone beam scanners use a cone-shaped beam radiating from an X-ray source, covering a wide range with just a single rotation around the patient's head. The X-rays are compiled using a series of algorithms to furnish high-resolution 3D images. Cone beams use a fan beam, as opposed to a light beam, and emit 200-300 times less radiation.
“The X-rays are compiled using a series of algorithms to furnish high-resolution 3D images.”
What Information Can Beam Imaging Provide?
A 3D cone beam CT scan can provide detailed information about the structures of the mouth. It provides a much more robust picture of soft tissues than a traditional dental radiograph. In this way, 3D technology can help the dentist obtain clinical information that they would not otherwise be able to use. The information that complete health dentists receive from 3D dental scanning can:
- Help them visualize abnormal or problem areas
- Evaluate structures of the jaws and face
- Diagnose trauma or dental cavities
- Plan for procedures such as dental implants, root canals, or cleft palate repairs
“In this way, 3D technology can help your dentist obtain clinical information that they would not otherwise be able to use.”
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What to Expect Post-Procedure
After a 3D dental scan, the complete health dentist will have a clear and concise three-dimensional image of the teeth, mouth, jaw, neck, ears, nose, and throat. The dentist will be able to immediately review this image and use features such as zooming and rotation to get the best possible view of any area in question. There is no recovery time after this procedure, and the patient will be able to immediately return to their daily activities.
“The dentist will be able to immediately review this image, and use features such as zooming and rotation to get the best possible view of any area in question.”
Questions Answered on This Page
Q. How does a 3D cone beam work?
Q. What is the difference between traditional and cone beam scanners?
Q. What information can beam imaging provide?
Q. What should I expect post-procedure?
People Also Ask
Q. What happens at a dental checkup?
Q. Who should get tooth fillings?
Q. What lifestyle choices help promote good oral health?
Frequently Asked Questions About 3D Cone Beam Scans
Q. How long do 3D dental scans take?
A. Not very long. A 3D dental scan comprises one rotation of a mechanical arm around your head. After you are positioned, the scan itself usually takes less than 30 seconds.
Q. How long have dentists been using 3D scanning technology?
A. According to the FDA, CBCT technology has been in use for twenty years. Dental scans are becoming more common every day because of their helpfulness in planning for procedures and diagnosing complex conditions.
Q. How much radiation does a 3D scan emit?
A. A 3D dental scanner is considered a computed tomography (CT) scan. Still, it emits less radiation than other conventional CT scans that are commonly used in medicine. However, a CBCT scan does emit more radiation than traditional dental x-rays.
Q. What do patients think of 3D cone beam scanning technology?
A. Patients are often impressed to see a three-dimensional image of their own maxillofacial region. When the dentist can show a patient how a procedure works on their actual mouth and jaw, it helps them have a deeper understanding of the work. Then, patients are more comfortable with the procedure and even have an easier time explaining to others how it works.
Q. What is a 3D cone beam scanner typically used for in dentistry?
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Dental Terminology
Learn More About 3D Scans Today
If you are looking for more information pertaining to complete health dentistry or the use of 3D cone beams or 3D dental scans, call us at 619-805-4248.
Helpful Related Links
- American Dental Association (ADA). Glossary of Dental Clinical Terms. 2025
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