CT scans have changed endodontic treatments for many dental issues, saving more teeth and helping to drastically improve people’s dental health. The technology supporting better diagnoses using CT scanning is incredible, since the scan produces a 3D X-ray image that shows many more features of a tooth’s structure and the surrounding area.

[Related: 5 Signs You May Need Endodontic Surgery]

What is an Endodontic CT Scan?

CT scan stands for computed tomography, and it is a medical imaging technique that produces a 3D X-ray image. These detailed internal images can provide oral health professionals with images of the bone structure, teeth structure, soft tissues, nerve pathways, and the area surrounding the teeth as well. This helps diagnose proper treatment and ensure healing, especially for root canal treatments.

Who Qualifies for Endodontic CT Scans?

If you fall under any of the following categories, you could qualify for a dental CT scan:

• Have had complications with a root canal treatment
• Need an evaluation to proceed with a root canal treatment
• Planning on getting dental implants after undergoing bone grafting
• Need bone grafting for dental implants
• Have curved roots and complicated canals that are impacting your teeth

If you are wondering if you qualify for an endodontic CT scan, contact your dentist today for an evaluation.

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What is the Process of an Endodontic CT Scan?

An endodontic CT scan is a quick and painless procedure, with lower radiation doses than a conventional hospital CT scan. The scan can be done during your regularly scheduled dental exam and takes less than one minute. 

Patients should remove any facial piercings and jewelry before the procedure. They should also remove hearing aids, eyeglasses, hair accessories, and removable dental devices such as retainers before the scan. 

While standing facing the front of a scanner, patients will hold onto two grips. Then, guides will move the head into place. The guides will prompt the head to move from side to side. This helps the scanner can take a series of CT images for the X-ray software.

[Related: Endodontic Surgery: Root Amputation vs. Apicoectomy]

Contact Cascadia Dental Specialists Today For More Information

Interested in learning more about endodontic CT scans? Dr. Faghih, Cascadia Dental Specialists’ endodontist, uses the latest technology in saving teeth that have had root canal problems, and literally saved them from being pulled. 

Call him today at 425-644-7444 for an appointment, or contact us on our webpage if you are having any issues with previous root canals.