While the 2-dimensional scans produced by traditional, panoramic dental X-ray systems have been the standard for a long time – and have even been accepted in the wake of digital technology – many general practitioners are wondering, “When is it really worth the investment in upgrading to 3D cone beam dental systems?”
They are substantially more expensive than traditional panoramic X-ray systems, so it’s a valid question, but at the same time, their significantly advanced functionality and imaging diagnostic potential may justify the expense.
Here are some of the situations in which general practitioners might want to seriously think about upgrading to dental CBCT technology.
Traveling Endodontics or Orthodontists Who Periodically Visit the Office
Traveling endodontists and orthodontists are sometimes referred to in the industry as “mobile” or “on-site” specialists because they may not have a single home office and because they enable general practitioners to expand their service offering without the extra office space needed to have these specialists on-site all the time.
But there’s a caveat – the space savings generated by leveraging a mobile specialist model are limited, especially if you don’t offer the imaging system (and other equipment) these specialists need to do their jobs effectively, not to mention to uphold a reasonable standard of care.
The services provided by endodontists, such as root canals, as well as those provided by orthodontists, often require the precise imaging that only 3D cone beam dental scans can show.
To Expand Service Offerings
For any general practitioner considering expanding his or her service offering beyond the basic, the benefits and advanced imaging capabilities of 3D cone beam dental technology might be an imperative.
For instance, dental cone beam CT scans are recommended before implant planning, before endodontic surgery for surgical planning, and in some cases might even be recommended before root canal therapy – among many other treatments.
The complex, detailed images of 3D dental cone beam technology also offers better insight for diagnosing complex cases, TMJ analysis, and much more; assessing bone density and structure, the nature of infections or abscesses, and much more can all be done with much greater precision and confidence through 3D CBCT scans than other methods.
Considering Implants
Implant dentistry can be a lucrative field, but it requires an exceptionally high level of diagnostic accuracy for the purposes of implant planning. Assessing bone density, nerve pathways, the depth of tooth roots, and more fall under the purview of the clarity that can only be offered by the multi-planar 3D images of dental CBCT.
Selecting a suitable implant site is one of the most important precursors in setting a viable implant that does not fail – and reduces the need for retreatment. The use of 3D cone beam dental technology is effectively requisite.
If You’re Otherwise Limited by 2D Systems
While the learning curve associated with using 3D cone beam dental systems, as well as with effectively and confidently interpreting the scans can be intimidating, for any general practitioner that wants to improve his clinical service offerings and feels limited by 2D systems, it’s worth the upgrade.
For some practices, the limitations of 2D panoramic systems might be acceptable. For others they might not be. That is something you’ll have to determine.
Save 30% to 50% Off Certified Pre-Owned 3D Come Beam Dental Systems
If you’re one of the general practitioners who feels that the time to invest in 3D cone beam dental technology is now, don’t be put off by the higher sticker price. Work with Renew Digital and shop certified pre-owned CBCT systems instead of new ones; they routinely save their clients anywhere from 30% to 50% off used dental equipment and work closely with their clients on financing, installation, staff training, and support.
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