X-ray diagnostics in dentistry
X-ray diagnostics have always been standard in oral and maxillofacial surgery and dentistry. Conventional X-rays show a two-dimensional image of the conditions in the oral cavity. These 2D X-ray images still represent an important basis for the assessment of teeth and jaws.
However, X-ray diagnostics in dentistry has developed enormously in recent years and digital volume tomography (DVT), a very modern and efficient procedure, has been available for some time with which 3D images of teeth and jaws are also possible. 3D X-ray opens up far-reaching possibilities for planning complex dental and maxillofacial surgery.
Advantages of the digital 2D X-ray procedure
- Within seconds we receive a digital image of your teeth.
- This allows an immediate discussion of the findings with you.
- Individual image sections can be displayed enlarged.
- Both single shots and panorama shots are possible.
- Contrast and brightness of the images can be modified.
- We find caries in the early stages.
- We can judge tooth pockets.
- The position of wisdom teeth can be determined and root canals can be shown.
- Leaks at the crown margin or filling margin can also be clearly identified.
When are 3D process used?
Conventional, digital X-ray images show a 2D image and are a projection of the structures in the beam path. In many cases, 2D imaging procedures are sufficient for the preparation of findings, but not always. In the case of a 2D X-ray image, the third assessment level is missing and it is up to the experience of the treating specialist alone to identify the location and extent of the problem. This is exactly where 2D X-ray diagnostics reaches its limits and questions that can only be solved by a more precise, spatial representation remain unanswered.
A 3D representation, as made possible by digital volume tomography, offers a more reliable basis for diagnostics. The anatomical conditions are depicted in detail, true to scale and spatially. Whenever the 2D procedure is not sufficient or does not deliver the desired results, DVT is recommended.
Various structures such as teeth, bones, tooth roots, maxillary sinuses, temporomandibular joints and nerves can be measured and evaluated in detail. In addition to the jaw and temporomandibular joints, we can also visualise part of the paranasal sinuses. Depending on the device, this section can be smaller or larger. For special applications, for example in children, we can reduce the radiation exposure by a fast-scan procedure.
Similar to magnetic resonance tomography and computer tomography, DVT produces sectional images. The DVT process is based on a rotatable mounted X-ray tube. This is opposed by an image sensor. By rotating around the patient’s head, many (approx. 200-400) 2D images are taken. The computer combines these images into a 3D result. The information content of 3D X-ray images is many times higher than that of 2D images.
Diagnosis and therapy become much more precise with this imaging procedure.
DVT in implantology
An important field of application for digital volume tomography is implantology. As a special practice for implantology, we use DVT already in the diagnostic phase before the actual procedure to clarify the position of various structures, to plan and simulate the procedure. Three-dimensional images can be used, for example, to determine before the procedure whether the bone is high enough and thick enough for the implant to be inserted. The DVT image can thus indicate that bone augmentation is necessary. The exact implant position can also be determined with the DVT images. Good planning and preparation of the actual implantation make the procedure minimally invasive and complications are minimised. At the same time, thanks to this imaging procedure, we can include you as a patient in the planning of your dental prosthesis and thus consider your wishes and ideas even more precisely.
