Cone Beam

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, Heape, Johnson 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.

Pre- & Post-Operative Care Instructions

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.

Precision Through Photogrammetry

At Oral and Facial Surgery of East Alabama, we use cutting-edge photogrammetry technology to take our implant accuracy to the next level. This advanced imaging technique captures incredibly precise 3D data of your mouth, allowing us to design and place your dental implants with unmatched accuracy. The result? A perfect fit, faster healing, and a restoration that feels just like your natural teeth—because it’s built exactly for you.

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.