What Is 3D Imaging Technology?
3D imaging technology is a type of digital picture taking process that results in virtual “3D”
images – that is, images that appear three dimensional and give us a 360 view of the mouth and jaw.
This special imaging technology enables our dentists to identify oral health issues that could not
be seen easily or at all with the naked eye.
How Does 3D Imaging Technology Work?
3D imaging technology is done through specialized machines such as a CBCT. CBCT stands for Cone Beam
Computed Tomography, and the machine literally uses an X-ray beam that is shaped like a cone.
Since a full 360-degree series of photos are taken, a 3D composite image is created that can be
viewed and manipulated on a computer screen to get a very detailed look at the teeth, jaw, and
surrounding bones and tissues. With this life-size, scalable image, we can easily make precise
calculations of the teeth, jaw, and sinuses to inform treatment.