Technology

Not long ago, the only sure way to determine the exact location and condition of the bone underneath soft tissue was to expose it surgically. X-rays allow us a deeper peek into the underlying bone structure of the face and mouth, but they only give us a two-dimensional view.

With the advent of Computed Tomography (CT) scans, doctors can now view a complex 3-D model of your mouth, showing striking detail of the bone and tissue density, nerves, sinuses, and the exact layout of an individual’s jaw and teeth. By compiling and combining hundreds of images of the patient, this technology allows for careful planning and unparalleled precision. This results in a drastic reduction in treatment time, minimizing pain, swelling, and recovery time.

Now, what about minimizing radiation exposure? The newest generation of dental imaging comes from the Planmeca Promax 3D, a state-of-the-art cone beam CT. This technology uses short bursts of radiation instead of the continuous radiation emitted by many other scanners. The result is drastically-reduced radiation exposure for most patients while providing accurate, distortion-free 3-D images.

Tahoe Oral Surgery is one of the few state-of-the-art practitioners using the Planmeca Promax 3D in our Truckee and South Lake Tahoe office locations. If you’re considering dental implants, let us apply this innovative technology and our expertise to ensure the best possible outcome for you and your teeth.

Our oral surgeons use surgical guides such as the XNav and 3-D digital scanners to plan and guide surgeries for maximum precision. Incorporating such advanced technologies allows for a more predictable surgical outcome, drastically minimizing the potential risks and post-surgical complications. It also significantly enhances patient comfort and recovery time by ensuring minimal invasiveness during surgical procedures.