Cone Beam CT Scanner

At North Manchester Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, we have an "in-office", Sirona Galileos Cone Beam CT Scanner. This allows us to obtain high definition, three-dimensional digital radiographic images of the jaws and face on our patients. Prior to the availability of this technology, all in-office dental imaging was performed in two dimensions. By adding the third dimension, our doctors now have markedly improved diagnostic capabilities within our office setting at a fraction of the cost and reduced radiation exposure compared to traditional hospital based CT imaging.

The high resolution volumetric images obtained by the CBCT scanner provide three-dimensional views of the facial bones, the Temporomandibular joint, the jaws and the orientation of the teeth within the jaws. With this thorough, three-dimensional information, we can more accurately treatment plan in regards to:

1. Width of the jaw bones for dental implants;
2. Location of critical anatomy like the Maxillary sinus and nerve canals for dental implants;
3. Extent of pathologic lesions within the jaws and facial bones;
4. Degree and position of displacement of jaw and facial bone fractures;
5. Alterations in morphology (shape) of the bony Temporomandibular joint structures;
6. Position of impacted teeth within the jaw relative to other teeth and critical anatomic structures.

Sirona, an industry leader in Cone Beam CT technology takes a full scan in less then 20 seconds. This decreases radiation exposure to our patients. The scans are taken with the patient in a seated position and holding onto handles to decrease motion. The scanner is in an open area, unlike hospital based CT scanners and MRI machines which are associated with causing a "claustrophobic" environment.

Finally, we are proud to have this state of the art technology in our office and look forward to its use for the benefit of our patients and their referring doctors.