At David G. Johnson DDS, PC, we use the latest technology to benefit our patients’ dental exams. One of the latest 3D scanners we have is the CBCT machine. What is it? CBCT stands for Cone Beam Computed Technology and is a unique type of x-ray equipment that enables the production of 3D images. The CBCT Scanner provides information about many different features of oral health, including tooth structure, nerve pathways, bone health, soft tissues, and more. In less than a minute, it processes about 150-200 images and with its’ high-resolution scanning, your Endodontic can see every small aspect of your entire mouth.  

Another benefit to this machine is that there is a lower radiation level required to obtain these high-quality images. The radiation levels received is 18-200 millirems depending on the size; the average exposure from natural sources is 300 millirems per year at sea level and can be slightly higher at higher elevations. For example, anyone in Denver, Colorado averages 400 millirems per year. The natural radiation we receive every day comes from our environment, food, air, water, and our bodies. So according to the CDC, that’s at a category 1. That’s a low radiation number for this machine! For radiation to be high enough for death you would have to be at a category 5, like what happened at Chernobyl.  

Why would you need to use this machine? You might have been in a car accident or maybe you’re not healing right after a root canal so your Endodontic will use this machine to look further and find what needs to be resolved. Other examples are: 

• Viewing impacted teeth to plan a surgical procedure 
• Preparing for orthodontic treatments 
• Accuracy with the placement of dental implants 
• Diagnostics for temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) 
• Detection of potential tumors and cancerous growths 

• Evaluations of jaw position, nerve canals, sinuses, and nasal cavities 
• Complete information about tooth orientation and bone structure 
• Identifying early signs of dental disease 

Before you get your scan, you will be asked to remove items that might interfere with the imaging, such as eyeglasses, jewelry, hearing aids, hairpins, and removeable orthodontics or dental work. If you enter the machine with any of these items it can break the machine and cost the dentist thousands of dollars to get a replacement. Once your dental assistant gets you set up in the machine, a complete 360-degree rotation is done around your head and the images are taken. Once the machine is complete, the images are reconstructed with the 3D print. It is a comfortable and fast process for all patients. 

Please contact David G. Johnson DDS either on their website, over the phone or in the office if you have any further questions or concerns on your dental health today.  

The idea of having a root canal often results in many people avoiding visits to the dentist. However, this tends to just exacerbate the problem and make root canals more likely. When your teeth have experienced a certain level of decay or damage, a root canal may be necessary to save the tooth and prevent the damage from spreading to other areas of your smile. At David G. Johnson, D.D.S., you can be confident that you will receive the appropriate services to restore the health of your smile. Here are a few of the signs that it is time for a root canal.

Ask your Dentist

Ultimately, the only foolproof way to decide if you need a root canal is to ask your dentist. Your dentist will be able to provide a proper examination to determine the extent of damage to your teeth. This will help to ensure that you know the best services to obtain to restore the health of your smile.

Swollen Gums

When your tooth has become infected, it is possible that the gums surrounding the area will become swollen. This swelling indicates that there is a substantial oral health problem. If you notice that you have swollen gums, you will want to ensure that you schedule a dental appointment to identify the underlying cause of the swelling.

Tooth Discoloration

Discolored teeth may indicate that it is time for a root canal. Though staining can cause the teeth to become discolored, nerve damage will also cause discoloration. If the nerves of the tooth become damaged, it may be necessary to have a root canal to prevent the damage from spreading.

Sensitivity to Temperatures

Severely damaged teeth will often become sensitive to variations in temperatures. If you notice severe pain or discomfort when you consume hot or cold foods or beverages, it is possible that you need a root canal to restore the health of your smile. Pay attention to this sensitivity and visit your dentist to have the problem resolved.

Persistent Pain

Damaged teeth can be incredibly painful. If you are experiencing chronic, persistent pain, you will want to ensure that you visit your dentist for a thorough examination. This pain is often an indication that a root canal may be necessary.

Visible Decay

Visible decay indicates that the problem with your tooth has escalated to a larger degree. If you see visible signs of decay, it is essential to have the problem resolved to prevent it from getting even bigger. Visible decay is a certain sign that you need to visit your dentist and may even be an indication that a root canal will be necessary.

If you need a root canal, it is important to have it done quickly to prevent the spread of damage to other areas of your oral health. If you suspect that it is time for a root canal, you will want to obtain the relevant services to minimize problems with your smile. To learn more about the root canal processes or the services that we offer, contact us at David G. Johnson, D.D.S., today!