Oral surgeons take an oath, pledging to provide the best possible care to their patients. Computerized Tomography scans reveal the underlying structure of the face – including the muscles, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and nerves – to ensure minimal discomfort and maximum results. By comparison, a standard dental x-ray will only show the bony structures of the face such as the jaw, nasal cavity, and sinuses. In order to achieve the highest level of care, YES – you should have a CT scan prior to receiving your dental implants.
How are CT scans used in dental implant surgery?
CT scans provide important information for planning and placement purposes, such as:
- Is the patient a good candidate for this particular tooth replacement solution?
- Is the underlying bone of good depth, quality, and quantity sufficient to hold the implant in place?
- Where are the closest nerves and pain receptors in the mouth?
- What is the best way to reach the area, so the surgery is the least invasive?
Three-dimensional tomography allows us to map out the tooth extraction and replacement before you’re in the room with us, which saves a considerable amount of time. We see how to avoid nerves, major arteries, and blood vessels to minimize pain and the risk of adverse bleeding. This careful consideration also allows us to avoid imbalances that lead to dental wear or complete prosthesis failure in the long-term.
CT scans allow oral surgeons to make the best possible decision regarding the feasibility and safety of dental implants. In some cases, the underlying jaw bone structure looks robust on an x-ray, but ends up being so thin that a bone graft is necessary for long-term success. In other cases, the x-ray may make it appear as if the patient is not a good candidate for dental implants because of lack of bone thickness when, in reality, the bone depth is sufficient.
Learn more about the benefits of dental implants
Most vendors can have you in and out for a CT scan in no time at all. Rocky Point Dentistry is fully open and welcoming patients for all procedures, including cosmetic dentistry like oral implants. We are taking all prescribed safety precautions when seeing patients and are happy to address any COVID-19-related concerns you may have about your procedure.
Schedule a one-on-one consultation to discuss cosmetic options with our experienced Long Island dentists.
