We use a CT scan prior to implant placement to ensure proper positioning and safety for the patient. Implants are truly life changing and probably the greatest advancement in dentistry for the last 50 years. From a single tooth implant to securing loose dentures to completely restoring all missing teeth with implants call us to find out if you are a candidate. We offer free consultations on all implants and sedation is offered at no charge during the procedure.
Cone Beam CT
Computed Tomography
Commonly referred to as CAT scan, is unlike conventional x-rays, which produce images of the shadows cast by body structures of different density, CT scanning uses similar x-rays in a different approach. Multiple x-ray beams pass through the body in a circular fashion and a complex set of detector array, rotating on the opposite side of the beam source, measure the amount of radiation absorbed by different tissues (attenuation). Dedicated computer software use the resulting signals of different absorption levels to form cross-sectional slices of the anatomy.
These slices are referred to as tomograms, hence the name computed tomography. Computed tomography has the ability to distinguish between different tissue densities, for example:Bone, teeth, soft tissue and blood vessels. On the other hand, MRI is more attuned for imaging soft tissue structures.
A CT scanner looks like a big doughnut. The patient goes into a circular grove that is 70cm in diameter. The scanner consists of a rotating framework (gantry) that is composed of both the x-ray source and the detector array at opposite sides to each other. This set up spins in a circular motion at sub-second speed while the patient bed (table) slowly proceeds into the gantry. The x-ray is focused(collimated) at its source and then diverges into a fan shape by the time it is absorbed by the detectors, hence the name fan beam. This fan beam collimation is the major difference between the MDCT scanners and Conebeam scanners.
The numerous projections from every rotation around the body are then feed into complex software that reconstructs (back projects) a slice through that region. A number of computers are used to control the CT system:
1. Host computer, which manages the operation of the entire system
2. Reconstruction computer, that back project the raw CT signals
3. Workstation, that allows the operator to control and manage the exam
4. Microprocessors, control the angulation of the gantry and steady motion of the table
Diagram showing relationship of x-ray tube, patient, detector, and image reconstruction computer and display monitor
CT Scans are used to image:
• Brain and its vessels
• Neck, head, shoulders and cervical spine
• Chest, heart, aorta, lungs
• Thoracic and lumbar spine
• Upper abdomen, liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas
• Pelvis, hip and reproductive system
• Skeletal system, hands, feet, legs, ankles, knees arms and jaws
Dr Kelly uses an I-Cat scanner which utilizes Cone Beam Volumetric Tomography (CBVT) technology. This is a relatively new technology when compared to traditional medical scanners. The typical medical CT scanner requires a separate scan of the maxilla(upper jaw) and of the mandible(lower jaw). Each of those scans subjects the patient to 200-300 times the radiation required for a panoramic radiography. When both jaws need to be scanned, the patient is collectively receiving 400-600 times the radiation dose for a panoramic radiograph. CBVT scanners can take the mandible and maxilla at the same time, thereby only exposing the patient one time for both jaws. See Fig.1
Fig. 1
For your convenience and ease of understanding, the following is an i-CAT�Cone Beam CT Dose Comparison provided by Dr. Stuart White, Dept. of Radiology, UCLA.
nDailybackground: 8 uSv
nPanoramic: 10-15 uSv
ni-CAT 10 second scan: 30-35 uSv
ni-CAT 20 second scan: 60-70 uSv
ni-CAT 40 second scan: 90-100 uSv
nFull Mouth Series: 150-200 uSv
nChest X-ray* 70 uSv
nMedical CT1200-3300 uSv
CBVT scanners utilize a narrow beam of radiation that scans both the maxilla and mandible at one time. This requires only 2-8 times the amount of radiation used in a panoramic radiograph. The CBVT is a far safer system for achieving the digital radiographic imaging required for dental implant treatment planning. In terms of risks and benefits, the CBVT is the better choice. The I-Cat scanner is handicap accessible.
SimPlant treatment
Simplant software integrates seamlessly with the images obtained through I-CAT cone beam technology to assist in planning and placement of dental implants and bone grafts. After a CAT scan is obtained Simplant technology guarantees added value and precision when the implants are placed. Since Dr. Gibbons possesses both of these technologies this process is quick and convenient.
The SimPlant concept consists of SimPlant software and SurgiGuides.
With the SimPlant software, Dr. Gibbons can carefully prepare the surgery. A plan is created for the ideal positioning of the implants, in both 2D and 3D, while taking into account both clinical and esthetic considerations. Visualization of the plan is an easy tool to enhance communication between the different partners and also to show you where implants will be placed during surgery.
SurgiGuides are custom-made drilling guides, a precise guiding system that will transfer the plan accurately to the surgery. SurgiGuides will prevent unpleasant surprises at the time of surgery for the surgeon or dentist, and unpleasant surprises for you afterwards!
The images above and below demonstrate the value of using I-CAT cone beam with Simplant software to treatment plan for bone grafting, nerve mapping and eventual implant placement.
Below are images of how I-CAT technology can be used to find various pathologies.
Multiple diagnosable views of Sinus Polyps
TMJ: FrCone Beam CT
Computed Tomography
Commonly referred to as CAT scan, is unlike conventional x-rays, which produce images of the shadows cast by body structures of different density, CT scanning uses similar x-rays in a different approach. Multiple x-ray beams pass through the body in a circular fashion and a complex set of detector array, rotating on the opposite side of the beam source, measure the amount of radiation absorbed by different tissues (attenuation). Dedicated computer software use the resulting signals of different absorption levels to form cross-sectional slices of the anatomy.
These slices are referred to as tomograms, hence the name computed tomography. Computed tomography has the ability to distinguish between different tissue densities, for example:Bone, teeth, soft tissue and blood vessels. On the other hand, MRI is more attuned for imaging soft tissue structures.
A CT scanner looks like a big doughnut. The patient goes into a circular grove that is 70cm in diameter. The scanner consists of a rotating framework (gantry) that is composed of both the x-ray source and the detector array at opposite sides to each other. This set up spins in a circular motion at sub-second speed while the patient bed (table) slowly proceeds into the gantry. The x-ray is focused(collimated) at its source and then diverges into a fan shape by the time it is absorbed by the detectors, hence the name fan beam. This fan beam collimation is the major difference between the MDCT scanners and Conebeam scanners.
The numerous projections from every rotation around the body are then feed into complex software that reconstructs (back projects) a slice through that region. A number of computers are used to control the CT system:
1. Host computer, which manages the operation of the entire system
2. Reconstruction computer, that back project the raw CT signals
3. Workstation, that allows the operator to control and manage the exam
4. Microprocessors, control the angulation of the gantry and steady motion of the table
Diagram showing relationship of x-ray tube, patient, detector, and image reconstruction computer and display monitor
CT Scans are used to image:
• Brain and its vessels
• Neck, head, shoulders and cervical spine
• Chest, heart, aorta, lungs
• Thoracic and lumbar spine
• Upper abdomen, liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas
• Pelvis, hip and reproductive system
• Skeletal system, hands, feet, legs, ankles, knees arms and jaws
Dr Kelly uses an I-Cat scanner which utilizes Cone Beam Volumetric Tomography (CBVT) technology. This is a relatively new technology when compared to traditional medical scanners. The typical medical CT scanner requires a separate scan of the maxilla(upper jaw) and of the mandible(lower jaw). Each of those scans subjects the patient to 200-300 times the radiation required for a panoramic radiography. When both jaws need to be scanned, the patient is collectively receiving 400-600 times the radiation dose for a panoramic radiograph. CBVT scanners can take the mandible and maxilla at the same time, thereby only exposing the patient one time for both jaws. See Fig.1
Fig. 1
For your convenience and ease of understanding, the following is an i-CAT�Cone Beam CT Dose Comparison provided by Dr. Stuart White, Dept. of Radiology, UCLA.
nDailybackground: 8 uSv
nPanoramic: 10-15 uSv
ni-CAT 10 second scan: 30-35 uSv
ni-CAT 20 second scan: 60-70 uSv
ni-CAT 40 second scan: 90-100 uSv
nFull Mouth Series: 150-200 uSv
nChest X-ray* 70 uSv
nMedical CT1200-3300 uSv
CBVT scanners utilize a narrow beam of radiation that scans both the maxilla and mandible at one time. This requires only 2-8 times the amount of radiation used in a panoramic radiograph. The CBVT is a far safer system for achieving the digital radiographic imaging required for dental implant treatment planning. In terms of risks and benefits, the CBVT is the better choice. The I-Cat scanner is handicap accessible.
SimPlant treatment
Simplant software integrates seamlessly with the images obtained through I-CAT cone beam technology to assist in planning and placement of dental implants and bone grafts. After a CAT scan is obtained Simplant technology guarantees added value and precision when the implants are placed. Since Dr. Gibbons possesses both of these technologies this process is quick and convenient.
The SimPlant concept consists of SimPlant software and SurgiGuides.
With the SimPlant software, Dr. Gibbons can carefully prepare the surgery. A plan is created for the ideal positioning of the implants, in both 2D and 3D, while taking into account both clinical and esthetic considerations. Visualization of the plan is an easy tool to enhance communication between the different partners and also to show you where implants will be placed during surgery.
SurgiGuides are custom-made drilling guides, a precise guiding system that will transfer the plan accurately to the surgery. SurgiGuides will prevent unpleasant surprises at the time of surgery for the surgeon or dentist, and unpleasant surprises for you afterwards!
The images above and below demonstrate the value of using I-CAT cone beam with Simplant software to treatment plan for bone grafting, nerve mapping and eventual implant placement.
Below are images of how I-CAT technology can be used to find various pathologies.
Multiple diagnosable views of Sinus Polyps