1011 E Prescott Rd
Salina, KS 67401
Our Technology
Great Plains Periodontics & Implant Dentistry offers cutting-edge technology for patient comfort and precision in care.
i-CAT® 3D Imaging
Physicians have relied on computerized axial tomography scans (CAT), for many years. CAT scans are an X-ray procedure that uses many different X-ray images with the help of computers to generate cross-sectional or even 3D views of internal organs and structures within the body. A knee replacement surgery, for example, would never be performed without first examining 3D imaging.
More recently however, dentists have begun to rely on 3D imaging techniques and i-CAT® scans to provide them with a detailed view of the mouth and skull. The advantage that 3D imaging holds over regular dental x-rays is that the bone structure, bone density, tissues and nerves can be viewed clearly.
I-CAT® scans can be completed in less than half a minute. This means that far less radiation enters the body than if a regular set of bitewing x-rays were taken. The main use for i-CAT® scans is as an aid to plan dental implant treatment and other oral surgery.
Dental implants are the most sophisticated replacement for missing teeth, but have historically proven to be time-consuming to place. I-CAT® scans vastly reduce the time it takes to implant teeth. It is thought that in the near future, implants will be placed in a single visit because of this unique type of imaging.
How are i-CAT® scans used?
I-CAT® scans are advantageous because they allow the dentist to magnify specific areas of the face. In addition, the dentist can easily view cross-sectional “slices” of the jaw, which makes planning treatment easier and faster.
Here are some of the main ways in which i-CAT® scans are used in dentistry:
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Assess the quality of the jawbone where the implant will be placed
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Determine where nerves are located
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Diagnose tumors and disease in the early stages
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Measure the density of the jawbone where the implant will be placed
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Pinpoint the most effective placement for implants, including the angle of best fit
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Plan the complete surgical procedure in advance, from start to finish
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Precisely decide on the appropriate size and type of implants
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View exact orientation and position of each tooth
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View impacted teeth
How are i-CAT® scans performed?
I-CAT® scans are quick and simple to perform. A Cone Beam Imaging System is at the heart of the i-CAT® scanner. During the scan, the patient sits stationary on a designated seat. The cone beams are used to take literally hundreds of pictures of the face. These pictures are used to compile an exact 3D image of the inner mechanisms of the face and jaw. The dentist is able to zoom in on specific areas and view them from alternate angles.
Previous patients report the i-CAT® scanner is comfortable because they remain in a sitting position at all times. Additionally, the scanner provides an open environment, meaning that claustrophobic feelings are eliminated. The i-CAT® scan is an incredible tool that is minimizing the cost of dental treatment, reducing treatment time and enhancing the end results of dental surgery.
About Dental X-Rays
Dental radiographs (x-rays) are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without x-rays, problem areas may go undetected.
Dental x-rays may reveal:
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Abscesses or cysts
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Bone loss
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Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
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Decay between the teeth
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Developmental abnormalities
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Poor tooth and root positions
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Problems inside a tooth or below the gum line
Detecting and treating dental problems at an early stage can save you time, money, unnecessary discomfort, and your teeth!
Are Dental X-Rays Safe?
We are all exposed to natural radiation in our environment. The amount of radiation exposure from a full mouth series of x-rays is equal to the amount a person receives in a single day from natural sources.
Dental x-rays produce a low level of radiation and are considered safe. Dentists take necessary precautions to limit the patient’s exposure to radiation when taking dental x-rays. These precautions include using lead apron shields to protect the body and using modern, fast film that cuts down the exposure time of each x-ray.
How Often Should Dental X-Rays Be Taken?
The need for dental x-rays depends on each patient’s individual dental health needs. Your dentist and dental hygienist will recommend necessary x-rays based on the review of your medical and dental history, dental exam, signs and symptoms, age consideration, and risk for disease.
A full mouth series of dental x-rays is recommended for new patients. A full series is usually good for three to five years. Bite-wing x-rays (x-rays of top and bottom teeth biting together) are taken at recall (check-up) visits and are recommended once or twice a year to detect new dental problems.
