3D DIAGNOSTIC IMAGING
Dr D'Angelo is proud to offer the most comprehensive imaging with the most advanced Dental 3D imaging unit available. The
iCAT uses
Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (
CBCT) to deliver precise three-dimensional images of the teeth, jaws and head.
Three-dimensional imaging (3D) is rapidly becoming the new "standard of care" for the treatment planning of dental implants. It is also becoming a revolutionary tool in orthodontic planning, diagnosis and assessment of wisdom teeth, evaluation of TMJ disorders and airway obstructions typically seen in patients with sleep apnea. Recently, it has also become an indispensable tool for the diagnosis of root canal concerns and fractured teeth.
Traditional dental x-rays typically involve a series of two-dimensional images and a panoramic image. Unfortunately, two-dimensional images have many limitations due to their inability to view objects from more than one perspective. Panoramic images (which are also 2 dimensional) inherently have significant dimensional distortion. These techniques will always have an important role in the more basic dental diagnosis and screening but are inadequate for many of the more complex dental treatments.
3D CBCT images are dimensionally precise and allow Dr D'Angelo to diagnose and plan the placement of dental implants in the most accurate and safe manner possible. 3D allows for the complete and accurate assessment of the jaws and the bone where the implants are to be placed including the precise shape and contours of the bone, position of the nearby teeth and location of important vital structures such as nerve canals and sinuses.
CBCT images are similar to those obtained by medical CAT scan units yet provide even greater accuracy with just a small fraction of the radiation. The iCAT is specifically designed for dental diagnostics.
Safety, accuracy and assuring high success rates are among Dr. D'Angelo's primary goals in his implant planning. This in addition to the many other significant diagnostic advantages of the iCAT and 3D imaging is the reason that Dr D'Angelo is proud to offer this state-of-the-art technology to his patient's in the convenience of his La Jolla office.
