3Dimentional Imaging
HBDS is the first dental practice in the Western Cape to offer patients 3D dental X-rays. The Kodak 9000 3D Extraoral Imaging System is at the forefront of the dental industry. It allows our dentists to see any cross-section of the tooth or jaw, rather than just the vertical height, which is the case with 2D X-rays.
Kodak 9000 3D Imaging at HBDS
The Kodak 9000 3D Imaging system is a stand alone, extraoral dental imaging system that has power and accurate 3D imaging capabilities. The 9000 3D combines the features of dedicated 2D panoramic and 3D technology. With the increased detail and angles of 3D technology, a wide range of diagnostic possibilities exists for use in Implantology, Endodontics, surgery and routine dental treatment. The Kodak 9000 has a localized field of view for high-resolution images. This reduces radiation exposure as compared with larger field 3D images such as CT Scans, making it safer for patients.
The 3D image gives a precise visualisation of the dental structure viewed within different angles and slices, allowing accurate measurements and confident treatment planning. This is of significant benefit, especially in Implantology, where a precise understanding of bone volume and nerve location is critical. HBDS has seen a great increase in patient demand for implant treatment. With this projected growth in the implant market, 3D technology is essential in setting HBDS apart from its competitors.
This new technology will also allow us to take panoramic radiographs. Unlike other X-rays where the film is placed inside the mouth, the image is captured from outside the mouth. Some people may be familiar with the panoramic X-ray because it is most typically taken when wisdom teeth are being evaluated. The X-ray can also reveal deep cavities, gum disease and bone loss. The panoramic X-ray has many other applications, including evaluating patients with past or present TMJ or jaw joint problems. Those who require full or partial removable dentures or braces. Those who are at risk or suspected of having oral cancer or other tumours of the jaw and for those who cannot tolerate other types of films (severe gaggers).
Routine Investigation
The combination of 2D panoramic and 3D imaging technology lends the Kodak 9000 to extensive use in routine dental imaging. With the complete dental overview a panoramic images gives, the American Dental Association “recommends an individualized radiographic examination consisting of posterior bitewings with panoramic examination” *(THE SELECTION OF PATIENTS FOR DENTAL RADIOGRAPHIC EXAMINATIONS REVISED: 2004 ADA) as part of a comprehensive dental examination. The reduced radiation exposure, through a localized field view, makes the system ideal for routine use. With the seamless switch to 3D our dentists can then immediately view further areas of interest such as:
- Surgery Sites
- Impacted Wisdom Teeth
- Fractured teeth or roots
- Root Canals (Endodontics)
- Pain diagnosis
Implant planning
As stated before, 3D imaging allows for confident planning of the implant sites. This is of great benefit for both surgeon and patient as it allows for thorough preparation of cases, minimizing any surprises. This is essential in an environment where there has been a marked increase in litigation. We foresee that such 3D images will become “the standard of care” in all implant treatments, and essential in treatment planning.
Local referrals
With the reduced radiation compared with standard CT scanning, there is great benefit to both our own patients and those of surrounding surgeries. The digital format of the imaging also makes it simple to share. We intend advertising the services of the Kodak 9000 for use by surrounding dentists and their patients. This would include the Southern Suburbs and Foreshore. With our competitive pricing we foresee a good response from our peers.
