Easing the Transition to 3D Imaging and Wider Treatment Offerings

As dental technology advances, a growing number of today’s dental practices are expanding beyond general dentistry. More doctors are looking to differentiate and grow their practice while meeting a wider range of patient needs in-house. In the process of doing so, they’re also discovering the vital role 3D imaging plays in opening new possibilities for diagnosis, treatment planning and positive patient outcomes.

With 3D imaging technology, dentists have access to exceptionally clear, high resolution scans that show levels of detail which surpass traditional 2D systems . Using 3D imaging systems, doctors can more confidently and accurately perform complex and advanced services such as implants, endodontics, orthodontics, TMJ treatment, dental trauma, airway analysis, and more — without having to send their patients elsewhere. And patients certainly appreciate the added convenience of having one practice for all their dental needs.

When it comes to 3D imaging technology, cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) allows for more accurate diagnoses and better treatment planning which elevates patient care. In the specialized field of endodontics, CBCT 3D scans not only provide the detail doctors need to diagnose, plan and perform more types of treatments; they may also minimize the need for retreatments — saving the patient time, inconvenience and frustration.

With a higher level of detail and more visibility, CBCT scans enable doctors to catch and diagnose issues that might have been missed on 2D imaging alone.. For instance, 3D scans will often reveal periapical lesions, periodontal defects, as well as sinusitis that are not yet visible on 2D, allowing them to determine the most appropriate course of action. CBCT scans also help patients better visualize and understand the issue they’re experiencing, which encourages them to be more confident in their diagnose, more comfortable with the treatment plan, and more likely to comply. This in turn leads to improved patient outcomes, and happier patients.

Ultimately, CBCT scans help doctors avoid surprises in many situations. Armed with detailed 3D scans, clinicians have the full information and picture they need to assess the prognosis, plan for treatment, prepare and even reduce procedure time, and support a better outcome.

While the advantages of 3D imaging are clear, many practices may be hesitant to make the switch from familiar 2D to advanced 3D technology that comes with a learning curve. To ease the transition and help clinical staff get up to speed with minimal disruption to patient care, practices may want to consider a preliminary first step in embracing 3D. One great transitional solution can be found in the DEXIS ORTHOPANTOMOGRAPH™ OP 3D™ X-ray imaging system.

The OP 3D has the ability to capture 3D images needed for implant placement, endodontics, third molar extractions, TMJ and airway analysis, dental trauma, and more, enabling doctors to see details that could have been missed without this technology. . With fast scan times, adjustable height, low-dose options, and four flexible field-of-view settings, the OP 3D offers a versatile solution that fits a variety of practices and patients.

But here’s the key advantage for practices new to 3D: the OP 3D is an upgradeable panoramic. So as practices grow and become more confident in their treatment offerings, they can easily add cephalometric and other 3D capabilities while still having access to 2D panoramic images. What’s more, DEXIS provides eight hours of training for staff once the practice has upgraded to 3D, to make sure they’re confident and proficient in using the system to capture and interpret 3D images.

If you’re considering adding more specialty treatments and procedures to your practice, investing in 3D technology is a smart decision. With the right solution, embracing 3D imaging doesn’t have to be complicated or disruptive. Learn how the OP 3D from DEXIS can serve as your gateway to 3D and a broader patient offering.

This article originally appeared in Dental Product Shopper.