What is a CT Scan ?
Computed Tomography is a radiographic examination that uses advanced Xray technology to create multiple images of sections of the region being examined. These "slices" can be reformatted to create new "cross sectional" or 3D images.
Ordinary dental Xrays are limited to visualisation in 2D; yet so often diagnosis and planing requires a more complete understanding of a complex 3D anatomy. Computed Tomography examinations provide a wealth of 3D information which may be used when planning for Dental Implants, Surgical Extractions, Maxillofacial Surgery and advanced dental restorative procedures.
The image data may be simply viewed on screen, or alternatively sent to more sophisticated software solutions for specialist planning for dental implants, leading to minimaly invasive surgery. Alternatively the data may be sent to a 3D printer to make precise models of the jaws.
Coming for a CT Scan
When you come for a CT Scan you should expect to be with us for around 20 minutes. You should bring a prescription form signed by your referring Specialist. You will be asked to remove any jewellery, spectacles and removable dentures you may be wearing. You will be seated comfortably in the scanning machine which will be adjusted to optimise the scanning position. You will be asked to remain still with your eyes closed for 10 -40 seconds while the scanner passes around your head.
CT scan being taken - view a clip!
The i-Cat Cone Beam Scanner
We are the only imaging service in London to use the latest generation high speed Cone beam 3d Scanner. This produces a high resolution image set, using considerably less radiation than conventional "hospital" scanners.
3D Facial Scanning
Our facial scanner technology uses an optical scanning technique to capture the shape, texture and appearance of the face. This information is gathered without the use of X-rays at an extremely high resolution.
Sophisticated software allows the surfaces of one scan to be matched up to another scan taken at a later date; this means that changes in the face, e.g.as a result of surgery, orthodontic treatment, or dental implant treatment can be measured and monitored.
Cone Beam + 3D Facial Scanning
This is already a powerful tool, but when used in conjunction with cone beam CT, the possibilities become even more extraordinary, in that the surface scan can be matched up with (registered) the cone beam CT scan, so as to visualise and quantify changes in the face as a result of changes in the jaws.
Using sophisticated surgical planning software, it is also possible to simulate the changes in the face that may result from planned surgical procedures.