McCormick Orthodontics now offers an exciting new technology for our patients and for patients of other doctors who might be referred here. This technology is iCat Cone Beam Computer Assembled Tomography (CBCT) imaging, sometimes called 3-D radiographs or x-rays. Using CBCT means we now have the ability to take 3-D images of the teeth, jaws, bones, and facial structures at lower costs and with less energy than a typical CT scan used in hospitals. 3-D imaging provides us the opportunity for an improved diagnosis for our patients, especially in cases of impacted teeth, dental implants, surgical treatment, as well as more complex cases. Understandably you may have questions about exposure to these types of x-rays. Here are some facts you should know about 3-D imaging.
An iCat CBCT (8.5 seconds) exposure is:
About 1/2 as much as full series of digital dental images
About 1/5 as much as full (28) mouth series of standard dental x-rays About 1/70 as much as a typical medical CT scan
3-D imaging offers our patients enhanced diagnostic value at significantly reduced exposure. At the same time, 3-D imaging scans can image the entire head and most of the neck. As dentists and orthodontists, we evaluate teeth, jaws, and surround supporting bone using 3-D images for those limited purposes. Our training and dental license does not provide for evaluation and diagnosis of a broader area. 3-D imaging may show evidence of disease of the cervical spine, skull, or arteries. We can refer you to a radiology group for this purpose. The cost is $50.00 which may or may not be covered by your insurance. If you are interested in taking advantage of this service please select the applicable section and sign the acknowledgment below.