What is Cone Beam Technology?
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a special type of x-ray equipment that creates a 3D image of the bones, teeth, sinuses and nerve pathways in a single, fast scan. From the scan, we can see computer-generated views of your jawbones from any angle. This allows us to quickly diagnose patients and develop a more complete treatment plan for impacted teeth, dental implants, pathology and corrective jaw surgery in one visit. Thanks to the detailed studies, we can precisely perform your surgery in less time, with more predictable outcomes and with decreased surgical risks and complications. We can also share the digital images with your referring dentists and other dental specialists to take a team approach to your care.
Benefits of Cone Beam CT Imaging
- Low dose of radiation
- Fast, efficient scan
- Crystal clear, incredibly detailed 3D image of your teeth and jaws
- Virtually unlimited views to see your case from every angle
- Immediate diagnosis and comprehensive treatment planning in a single visit
- Ability to show you how your surgery will be approached and how you’ll look after the procedure
- Detects and orients cysts, tumors or other oral pathology
- Increases precision and accuracy during surgery
- Easy to share images and diagnostic information with referring dentists and specialists to collaborate on your care
Treatment Considerations
Dr. Fuqua, Smith or Zouhary will examine you at your consultation and take your medical and dental history to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants. If your mouth isn’t ideal for implants, we may be able to improve your outcome with bone grafting. We’ll go over all of your options and the risks and benefits of each procedure.
For most patients, dental implant placement is a multi-step process. First, teeth are removed and the socket is grafted with bone or bone substitutes to preserve the ideal gingival architecture. After a short three- to four-month healing phase, the implants are placed within your jawbone. You’ll wait three to six months while your bone bonds with the implants.
During this healing time, you can wear a variety of temporary teeth. After the bone has integrated or bonded to the implant, your restorative dentist will complete the process by placing the final crown or prosthesis. While the entire procedure can take six to twelve months, you’ll experience minimal disruption in your daily life.
Thanks to recent advances, we can often place implants on the same day as tooth removal to minimize the number of procedures as well as the total treatment time. Occasionally, additional bone grafting or sinus lifts are indicated if inadequate bone is present for implant placement.
Technology & Supplemental Procedures
DIGITAL IMPRESSIONS
With the award-winning 3Shape TRIOS® digital scanner, we are able to improve your comfort, decrease appointment times and increase accuracy. The digital scanner takes a digital impression of your teeth and gums while avoiding traditional impression material and trays, which can be uncomfortable, messy and inaccurate. With the digital shade guide, we can more accurately measure your natural dentition to maximize the appearance of your implant crowns and restorations.
MEDICAL MODELLING
VSP Orthognathics represents a major leap forward in virtual planning of orthognathic surgical procedures. Years of research and technology have led to the creation of a protocol that allows for accurate planning and precise clinical transfer via 3D printed splints.
Features and Benefits:
- Accurately simulate orthognathic procedures in a virtual environment using CT/CBCT.
- Software planning assistance from a team of experts at Medical Modeling.
- Replace traditional model surgery with virtual planning and 3D printed splints.
Are You Ready to Enhance
Your Quality of Life?
Our procedures not only help to improve your appearance but they also allow you to chew, speak, smile and enjoy life to the fullest. Learn how we can help you achieve the results you desire in a professional, welcoming atmosphere.
Opelika Office
2971 Corporate Park Dr
Opelika, AL 36801
334-749-3436
Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm
Auburn Office
747 N Dean Rd
Auburn, AL 36830
334-749-3436
Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm
Alex City Office
839 Airport Dr ste. 103
Alexander City, AL 35010
334-749-3436
Tue and Fri 8am – 4pm
Columbus Office
4405 N Stadium Dr
Columbus, GA 31909
706-507-0901
Mon – Fri 8am – 5pm