CBCT Scans and OPG: Dental Imaging Explained
The development of advanced dental imaging has enabled dental professionals to reach more accurate diagnoses and plan treatments with far greater accuracy.
Among dental imaging techniques, there is a Cone Beam Computed Tomography scan or CBCT for short, and the Orthopantomogram, popularly known as OPG.
While both these scans are useful in diagnosing conditions related to teeth and oral health, they are used for different purposes and differ in the amount of detail obtained.
What is a CBCT scan?
CBCT, or Cone Beam Computed Tomography, is a special three-dimensional scan that produces highly detailed and high-resolution images of the teeth and jawbone and its supporting structures. Unlike traditional two-dimensional X-rays, in CBCT the whole three-dimensional view is captured; hence, this allows the dentist to practically examine oral structures from many aspects.
CBCT is mainly indicated for complex dental procedures, including dental implant placement, assessment of orthodontic conditions, and jawbone density. They are also used to demonstrate pathologies that might not be visible in conventional X-rays, such as impacted teeth, cysts, or tumours.
Advantages of CBCT include 3D imagining with the prime benefit of CBCT being three-dimensional imaging. It serves better to understand the anatomy and thereby aids the dentist in planning surgeries or treatments with better precision. CBCT scans can diagnose minute lesions, fractures, or other anomalies that may have been missed on two-dimensional radiographs. It is excellent for all kinds of dental and maxillofacial needs, such as implantology, orthodontic treatments, endodontics, and oral surgery.
CBCT limitations include the radiation a patient is exposed to is greater than with conventional X-rays or OPGs. The dose, however, is still considered quite low. This heightened radiation does, however, need consideration, particularly with younger patients or where several scans are going to be required. CBCT scans also tend to be more expensive compared to conventional X-rays or an OPG because of the highly advanced nature of this technology. However, their precision often justifies the additional cost when it is required for the type of detail needed in complex cases.
When CBCT scans are used
CBCT scans are usually appropriate for dental cases that have indications for more complicated imaging diagnoses. Some of the more common conditions where a CBCT scan is needed include:
● Dental Implant Planning: A CBCT scan usually is required to check the density and structure of the jawbone before the procedure is done so that the implant will be in the correct and appropriate position. Orthodontics Treatment: If the patient is undergoing any orthodontic treatment, CBCT scans provide a three-dimensional view of teeth and jaw that aids an orthodontist in planning and monitoring the movement of the teeth more efficiently.
● Jaw Diseases: CBCT images will help in the diagnosis of conditions such as TMJ, whereby detailed information is availed on the jaw joint and the connected structures.
● Treatment of Endodontics: During the complicated root canal treatment, it helps in the visualisation of root canals, identifying unseen problems such as fractures or infection.
● Impacted Teeth and Cysts: CBCT scans help in locating impacted teeth and identify cysts and tumours that may not be visible on conventional X-rays.
What is an OPG?
An OPG is a panoramic dental X-ray, which displays a wide, two-dimensional view of the entire mouth, including all teeth, jawbone, and tissues surrounding it. It's one of those speedy, non-invasive imaging modalities that can provide an overview of the dental arch and thus is very suitable as a screening tool for a variety of dental conditions.
OPGs are widely used in general dental check-ups and as the starting point in diagnosing most dental issues, including dental caries and periodontal diseases, impaction of teeth, and many more. In comparison to CBCT, OPG does not provide detailed three-dimensional images but is efficient in general dental follow-ups with lower doses.
OPGs are quick and easy to perform, taking merely a few minutes. They require very minimal preparation and are well tolerated by most patients. They also have much lower doses of radiation as compared to CBCT scans; hence, they can be considered much safer for routine use and on younger patients as well. Being less complex in imaging, OPGs are usually way cheaper compared to CBCT scans. This, therefore, makes them more accessible to a larger audience.
The most obvious drawback of an OPG is that this modality supplies a two-dimensional view of the oral cavity. It is good enough for basic diagnoses but may not be able to disclose problems that need a more detailed three-dimensional perspective. OPGs are less detailed compared to the CBCT scans in the assessment of the jawbone for small lesions and fractures. In cases that require precision, a CBCT scan may be necessary.
When an OPG is used
An OPG is the first choice for routine dental checkups and general purposes. This is very helpful in the following conditions:
● These are the general dental check-ups. Due to the reason that OPGs show the full view of the entire dental arch, these are ideal for diagnosing most of general dental issues such as cavities, gum diseases, problems with teeth alignment, etc.
● Growth Monitoring in Children: Most pediatric dentistry has a regular usage of OPG for checking the growth of a child's teeth and jaw. It is considered an effective and safe way of looking out for possible orthodontic issues quite early in life.
● Wisdom Teeth Assessment: Dentists also use OPGs to establish the positioning of the wisdom teeth, whether they are impacted or may cause a problem in the near future.
● Pre-Treatment Analysis: In the case of major dental treatment, OPG presents an overall outline of the patient's oral cavity and hence the dentist can find out if there is any underlying condition that must be taken care of immediately.
The right scan for your needs
While both CBCT and OPG are significant in dental diagnosis, their main difference will revolve around specific applications.
Here at Optimal Dental Care, we are able to trace any kind of lesion or abnormality with the latest 3D CBCT scan and OPG technologies. This advanced technology has allowed us to take part proactively in the early detection of any oral issue so that timely and effective treatment can be delivered to our patients.
Whether it be for a visit with a dentist in Woollahra for routine care or the need for specialised imaging from a dentist in Bondi Junction, access to this advanced imaging ensures the best possible outcome. By consulting a dentist in the eastern suburbs, you can benefit from personalised care tailored to your dental needs, supported by the latest in imaging technology.
