3D imaging: Expanding the dental supplies application to change the doctor's business
Technology is doing amazing things in our fast-paced world. Who would predict that in dentistry, we will see the 3D anatomy of our patients, and the radiation doses from all angles low? The i-CAT ™ 3D cone beam unit and the Tx STUDIO ™ software (Imaging Sciences International) is a technology that has changed my practice.
Through the Internet, patients can easily study dental treatment programs and methods of dental treatment. They want to know the procedures provided and know that we are giving them the best dental care. We wanted to add CBCT to implant implants more efficiently, so we started to set out our requirements for 3D scanning systems. they are:
The ability to capture high quality images
Low radiation dose selection
Traditional 2D panorama function
Collimation options
Programs that control a particular scan size, such as an implant plan, verify implant implants, assessment of craniofacial development, or assessment of suspected pulp disruption
Software shortcut menu for quick access and convenience
With our i-CAT system, we can do all this. In fact, we can capture a scan with a radiation dose comparable to a panoramic image without requiring extreme detail.
The implementation of i-CAT technology has changed my direction of practice, literally changing the way my patients look at their dental care.
Although implants are the reason we started to study 3D models, airway research has given me a chance to really improve the quality of life of patients. After participating in the International Conference on 3D Dentistry, sponsored by i-CAT and Henry Schein Dental, we found many other i-CAT applications in addition to implants. With the scans in the Tx STUDIO software, we can now evaluate the anatomy of the jaw joints, airways and nasal passages. We can identify nasal lesions and root canal lesions that are undetectable by 2D imaging. We can identify the risk factors for airway obstruction that may lead to sleep apnea and refer these patients to the appropriate medical profession to begin treatment. Therefore, I now choose to work full time in TMD / sleep practice.
Another aspect of my favorite 3D feature is communicating with my patients in a very intuitive way. Often, they do not know the anatomy problem because they do not know the "normal" parameters of certain conditions. Understanding their condition and making them more compliant also leaves them wanting to start treatment quickly. They know we have all the information we need to make the best decisions for treatment and we can share this information with other doctors safely and easily when needed.
As my practice has experienced the benefits, I plan to invest in the second i-CAT. I know this dental equipment technology is a positive addition to practice and I have found the right company to deliver the high quality performance and customer service I need. The implementation of i-CAT technology has changed my direction of practice, literally changing the way my patients look at their dental care.
