In the past, dental daydreamers pondered the ability to capture a 3-D image of the mouth and to view it from all angles.
The ability to rotate that 3-D mode and zoom in on details was an even greater aspiration. Then, to coordinate all of the information for integration with other applications- such as guided implant placement software-promised to add even more value to the technology. All of these benefits are not just relegated to the dental visionaries of the future. 3-D imaging is available, here and now, and is actively improving practices across all dental disciplines.
Implantology
Implantology
Jack T. Krauser, DMD: 3-D radiography has made an astonishing and dramatic difference in my practice. This technology provides a new level of precision to the radiology process, especially in saggital crosssectional views of the posterior mandible and maxilla. Bone quality and quantity, plus precise measurements of the vertical, buccal-lingual, and mesiodistal dimensions of the bone-crucial information for any implant procedure, are revealed instantaneously-and I can share scans with my referral teammates in the free i-CATVision software. It's all there in 3-D, easy to utilize. An i-CAT® scan can mean the difference between success and failure in an implant procedure.
Endodontics
Endodontics
Ralan Wong, DDS, MS: Cone Beam technology provides the evidence that solves the most challenging endodontic enigmas. For the past five years, I have observed Cone Beam's impact on dentistry while researching it for endodontic uses, and have found it a valuable asset in treating cases involving resorption, cracks, foreign bodies, and hidden canals. It eliminates guesswork, and patients appreciate that. To successfully detect these hidden conditions, endodontists need 3-D.
Orthodontics
Orthodontics
Edward Y. Lin, DDS, MS: I use my i-CAT for everything-records, diagnosis, treatment planning, communications with patients and referring doctors, and digital models for robotic archwires. In 8.9 seconds, the 3-D scan delivers a complete orthodontic work-up, including cephalometrics, supernumerary, TMJ, impactions, SMV, spinal, airway, root location and panoramic views. Fabricating a SureSmile® archwire off of the i-CAT scan saves up to 30 minutes per patient, and because I have the roots, not just the crowns of the teeth, I get better setups and have more complete diagnostic information.
Oral Surgery
Oral Surgery
Steven A. Guttenberg, DMD, MD: I would not want to practice without my i-CAT. It has made such a significant change in my ability to diagnose properly and treat my patients. Being able to see in three dimensions has made me a better surgeon. I use these scans for extractions, pathology, orthognathic surgery, airway studies, dent-maxillofacial trauma, implants, bone grafts, and evaluation of paranasal sinuses. Whether I am preparing for a simple impaction or reconstructive surgery, a 3-D view eliminates surprises, reduces risk, and allows for less-invasive procedures.