Dental Imaging
Dental imaging is now used for a wide range of purposes, including general check-ups, implant surgery, sleep dentistry, wisdom tooth removal and more. There are several types of dental imaging equipment you can include in your surgery; however, you may consider your dental specialisation, surgery space, cost, and budget before making a purchase.
Paranomic OPG X-ray
An orthopantomagram (OPG) X-ray takes a paranomic scan of the upper and lower jaw. It reveals a flattened two-dimensional view of a half-circle from ear to ear. There are fewer fine details but provides a broad area of view. It is often used to check for wisdom teeth or the development of a child’s jaw and teeth, also used to check jaw joints when patients grind their teeth.
Lateral Cephalometric X-ray
It is a diagnostic X-ray tool primarily used for orthodontic treatment planning, concentrating on the side view of the head. This can be used to calculate how the patient’s jaw and surrounding bone will be affected by orthodontic treatment, and provides an insight into growth pattern of jaw and teeth.
Bitewing X-ray
Bitewing X-ray derived its name from the small tabs upon which a patients bites to hold the x-ray film or sensor in place. These x-rays are the easiest and most accurate to take. This is a method of choice to identify the presence and extent of dental decay in areas where back teeth touch each other, as well as assessing any bone loss.
Peri-apical X-ray
Peri-apical X-rays reveal complete side views from the roots to the crowns of the teeth. It is usually used to look for dental problems below the gum line or in the jaw, such as impacted teeth, tooth fractures, abscesses, tumours and bone changes linked to other diseases.
3D intraoral scan
Gone are the days with moulds, the latest technology allows dental arches to be digitally scanned to produce a 3D image of patients’ teeth within minutes. When uploaded onto a computer, dentists can immediately review the teeth and discuss appropriate treatment plans with patients. Moreover, these scans can be digitally 3D printed to manufacture plates, retainers and more with high accuracy.
