Dental X-rays answer many questions, but a flat image may not show every angle needed before certain procedures. At McCall Dental, our dental technology includes the Dentsply Sirona Axeos™ 3D CBCT system, which allows our Calgary dentists to examine teeth, roots, jawbone, and nearby anatomy from multiple perspectives.Dr. Rafael Tomio, DMD, completed specialty education in periodontics and implant dentistry, while Dr. Ludmilla Ciucci, DDS, earned a specialty degree and an MSc in endodontics. Both practice as general dentists and apply that education when reviewing your oral health and treatment options.
How Does CBCT Imaging Work?
CBCT stands for cone beam computed tomography. The equipment moves around your head and captures a series of X-ray images. Computer software then combines those images into a three-dimensional model.
Unlike a standard two-dimensional X-ray, this model lets our dentists examine the mouth from different directions. It can be useful when they need to assess root shape, bone dimensions, or the location of surrounding structures before recommending care.
What Can You Expect During the Scan?
You remain still while the equipment rotates around your head. The process is brief: At our office, a full-mouth scan often takes about 20 to 40 seconds, while capturing a smaller area may take less than 10 seconds.
CBCT is not needed at every dental visit. Our dentists may recommend it when the additional information could clarify a concern or affect how a procedure is approached.
When Might 3D Dental Imaging Be Useful?
- Dental implants: Before planning dental implant placement, three-dimensional images can help us review the amount of available jawbone and the position of nearby anatomy. Dr. Tomio’s education and experience in periodontics, implant dentistry, and bone and gum regeneration are especially relevant when evaluating an implant site. The images may also help determine whether a sinus lift should be considered for an upper-jaw implant.
- Root canal therapy: When examining a tooth for root canal treatment, our dentists may use CBCT to study root anatomy and the tissues surrounding the tooth. Dr. Ciucci’s postgraduate education in endodontics is directly relevant when reviewing these concerns.
- Tooth extraction: Before a complex tooth extraction, the images may show the position of the roots, surrounding bone, and nearby structures. This information helps our dentists prepare for the procedure and explain what you can expect.
- Adult orthodontic care: In selected adult cases, CBCT may support Invisalign® treatment by helping our dentists assess bone levels and whether proposed tooth movement should be adjusted.
How Do the Findings Shape Your Care?
A CBCT image does not determine treatment by itself. Our dentists consider the results alongside your examination, symptoms, health history, and goals. They can also review the images with you and explain how the findings relate to their recommendations.
To ask whether 3D dental imaging may be useful before an upcoming procedure, contact us to request an appointment with McCall Family Dental Centre in Calgary, AB, or call 587-747-0888.