Modern dentistry offers the population a high level of service. The quality of the most complex manipulations largely depends on the diagnosis, the use of innovative methods and the professionalism of the doctor. Various surgical procedures, preparation for implantation and prosthetics are greatly facilitated by computed tomography of the jaw. What it is? What is the advantage? How safe is the method? These and other issues will be discussed in this article.
What is it?
Computed tomography is a modern method of diagnostic research (CT). It allows you to study the necessary area of the body without surgery.
The method is based on x-ray radiation. Allows you to see an organ or bone in layers, and in a three-dimensional image. It is used at the initial stages of treatment, planning prosthetics in modern dentistry. Allows you to perfectly visualize the object and view it from all sides.
The difference between CT and X-ray
Computed tomography of the jaw gives the specialist the opportunity to see the structure of the bone, the location of the teeth, joints. Everyone probably saw the x-ray . This image is in one plane. The method allowed to make a two-dimensional picture. However, such images did not give doctors all the information. Undoubtedly, they played a three-dimensional image (3D). After all, the picture consisted of anatomical objects superimposed one on top of the other.
Today, applications for the program allow you to view a 3D image at the right angle. In addition, all diagnostic tests can be stored in the program and on digital media.
X-ray method is now still used in the old manner. Rather, in order to check the general condition. But if the picture showed some controversial moment, then the patient is recommended to have a CT scan. After all, the method will allow the doctor to see the state of the tissues, examine them from all sides.
The thickness of the studied layers is regulated by the program. Modern equipment allows you to make slices of millimeter sizes. In dentistry, especially in prosthetics, computed tomography of the jaw plays a rather important role. A good quality image allows you to perform complex surgical operations, create an accurate plan for implantation, and diagnose various neoplasms. Sometimes the patient accidentally learns about the presence of a cyst or other problem after a diagnosis.
In what cases is prescribed?
3D jaw computed tomography comes to the rescue in the situations below.
1. Injuries of a different nature in the area under consideration.
2. Diagnosis of latent caries.
3. Computed tomography of the upper jaw is recommended for sinus disease (sinusitis, cysts, polyps).
4. Before surgery in the maxillofacial region.
5. When planning dental operations.
6. Computed tomography of the jaw recommended by doctors with an abnormal arrangement of teeth or improper eruption.
7. The procedure is effective in the diagnosis of various neoplasms in bone tissue and in interdimensional areas.
8. The picture perfectly shows the condition of each tooth, its root, the degree of destruction, the integrity of the fillings.
Types of CT in dentistry
To diagnose changes in the oral cavity, developers produce 3 types of tomographs:
1. Cone beam apparatus.
2. Spiral tomograph.
3. Apparatus for sequential processing of layers.
Cone beam devices appeared only in our century. The opinion of doctors indicates the fact that this species has a future. But today, such studies are used only in the dental field. A plane receiver detects radiation. A tomograph captures the information received. This is a feature of the species. It allows you to recreate the most accurate three-dimensional image of the object.
Do I need to prepare for the examination?
There are no special recommendations before the procedure. The patient is not forbidden to eat the usual foods, medications for him. In general, no changes in lifestyle.
As a rule, computed tomography of the lower jaw, as well as the upper section, is performed without using contrast. But if such a need arises, then experts ask the patient to come for an empty stomach diagnosis.
It is worth noting that additional information will allow you to configure the device more accurately. If there are any results of past studies, a referral from a doctor or discharge, it is recommended to take them with you.
Contrast: what is it and what is it used for?
In some cases, the patient is prescribed a computed tomography of the jaw using contrast. The basis of the drug was iodine. He assists in obtaining high-quality visualization of soft tissues and blood vessels.
The dose of contrast is calculated individually for each patient by a technologist. For this, the weight of the patient is taken into account. The drug does not harm the body and is eliminated from it within 24 hours. Due to the fact that in dentistry the main studies are aimed at hard tissues, contrast is rarely used.
Brief description of the procedure
The patient is placed on a mobile sunbed. Then he gets into the apparatus, which will scan.
The tomograph sensor revolves around the programmed area. At this point, the patient is recommended to remain motionless. This is necessary so that the pictures do not turn out blurry.
Two-way communication is mounted inside the device. During the procedure, the patient should not feel discomfort. But if there are any complaints, he should immediately inform the doctor about this.
The patient remains in the diagnostic room himself. Specialists observe the procedure from the next room. To exclude excitement during the study, a person can invite a relative with him as "moral support." It is allowed.
In dental clinics, more mobile devices for scanning have already appeared. The patient remains in the dentist's chair.
How safe is the procedure?
Due to the fact that the method is based on x-ray radiation, some people assume that it is harmful to health. Experts explain that there is no danger. Due to changes in the design of the tomograph, the level of the delivered rays is much lower than on older devices. All this allows us to call this type of diagnosis absolutely safe.
It is worth noting that this applies to patients who have no contraindications to this type of study.
Learn about contraindications
1. Experts do not recommend conducting this diagnosis if a person suffers from claustrophobia.
2. Do not prescribe CT with severe pain.
3. Involuntary movements (hyperkinesis) are also a contraindication to the procedure.
4. CT scan is contraindicated for pregnant women. Despite the fact that the amount of radiation exposure is minimal, experts believe that any external exposure is better to exclude. After all, even the minimum dose can adversely affect the formation of the fetus. It is worth noting that most doctors say that computed tomography of the jaw is contraindicated only in the first three months. 3D teeth shot during the rest of the period of bearing a child will not harm him.
5. Even at the planning stage of the procedure using contrast, experts report the following contraindications: renal failure, allergy to iodine, lactation.
Can children do it?
We have already said that the dose of radiation received by the patient is negligible. However, as is the case with pregnant women, doctors believe that it is better not to take risks. Under 14 years of age, computed tomography of the jaw is not performed. The teeth are taken, if necessary, in an x-ray manner. However, in serious situations, when the benefit of the procedure exceeds the possible risk, it is prescribed for children.
What will they give out to the patient?
After the CT procedure, after about 15 minutes, the decryption of the scan will be ready. The patient is given pictures, an extract. Also, survey results can be recorded on digital media. It is very convenient. If the patient does not have time to wait for the scan results, all materials can be sent to him by e-mail. The results of the examinations will be saved in a specialist’s computer. After receiving the pictures and discharge, the patient goes with them to his doctor.