A dental CAT scan is a type of diagnostic imaging exam that’s designed to provide detailed three-dimensional images of your teeth, jawbones, and other structures. Unlike traditional two-dimensional dental X-rays, CAT scans provide significantly more information about your oral anatomy, information that helps our team make personalized recommendations about your care.
Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC offers the most advanced, state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging services for our patients, including dental CAT scans. Here, our team reveals what these scans do and what to expect during your visit.
Also called a CT (computed tomography) scan or a cone beam CT (CBCT) scan, a dental CAT scan uses a rotating X-ray device designed to capture multiple images of your teeth, bones, and other structures. These images are taken from different angles, and when combined by a computer, they provide a detailed 3D view that helps our team diagnose and treat all sorts of dental problems, including complex issues.
CAT scans are typically used when regular dental X-rays don’t provide enough detail. They’re ideal for root canal procedures and retreatments, particularly in teeth with complex or curved canals. CAT scans are also routinely used in implant placement and for planning other oral surgeries. And they play an essential role in wisdom tooth extractions, showing the full extent and position of the root, as well as the underlying nerves.
CAT scans don’t just show the shape and position of teeth and bone. They can help estimate bone density prior to implant placement, identifying where grafts will be required. They also play an important role in treating temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) and treating some types of sleep apnea.
Like dental X-rays, CAT scans are quick, noninvasive, and painless. During the exam, all you have to do is sit still — but there are some important points you should know about ahead of time.
When getting ready for your visit, it’s important to choose comfortable clothes with no metal zippers or other metal adornments. Leave metal jewelry behind, too. Metal can interfere with the imaging results, creating errors or “artifacts” or obscuring part of your anatomy.
During the actual scan, you’ll be seated with your chin resting in a special headrest. The X-ray device rotates around your head, capturing images as it moves. Depending on the images we need, we may ask you to bite down on a special device, similar to when you have a dental X-ray. You may need to briefly hold your breath at certain times to avoid any type of movement.
Most scans take about 15 minutes. Afterward, there’s no downtime. Once we have the results of your scan, we’ll share them with you and discuss any treatment recommendations we may have.
CAT scans provide a lot of detailed information about your oral health so we can provide you with the most appropriate and most effective care. To find out what’s causing your unusual symptoms and how we can help maintain your oral health, call 929-229-0255 or book an appointment online at Compassionate Endodontists New York/NYC in New York City today.
