What is a Cone Beam X-Ray?

A cone beam x-ray can get a more accurate picture than a conventional x-ray. They function by performing a scan in a cone formation that is rotated to get a thorough scan of the entire area. A cone beam takes a 3-D image of your teeth, soft tissue, nerve pathways, and bone with just one scan.

The Benefits of a Cone Beam X-Ray

A cone beam x-ray will provide you with a more accurate image than a conventional x-ray. A conventional x-ray only provides a 2-D image, which makes it more difficult to provide accurate treatment. A cone beam x-ray provides high-quality images, which prevents mistakes from occurring.

The high-quality, 3-D image will allow the dentist to provide more precise treatment than they would otherwise be able to. They can pinpoint the exact location of the roots, an infection, and other oral hygiene issues. A cone beam x-ray also allows a dentist to check bone width accurately.

Preparing for a Cone Beam X-Ray

Preparing for a cone beam x-ray isn’t difficult. You should wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid wearing metal. Metal can cause interference with the x-ray, so you should leave the jewelry at home. You will probably have to remove any jewelry that can safely be taken off. Women may be required to remove a bra that has metal underwire.

A cone beam x-ray will be painless and should leave no adverse effects. You should consult with a doctor before obtaining a cone beam x-ray if you are pregnant. Radiation is typically more dangerous for use with young patients, as they are more vulnerable to damage caused by radiation.

A cone beam x-ray is an ideal way for your dentist to get an efficient, high-quality image. This image will allow them to create a precise treatment plan, diagnose problems correctly, and provide you with the most efficient treatment possible. For more information on the benefits of cone beam x-rays, contact us at Jenson Dental today!

5 Steps to Help You Overcome Dental Phobia

 

Avoiding dental visits can be extremely detrimental to your overall health. Even so, nearly 10% of people avoid going to the dentist due to dental phobia. If you or your children experience dental phobia, here are a few tips to help you overcome your fears.

1. Distract Yourself

There are a wide variety of techniques you can use to help reduce your dental related anxiety. Listen to calming music or do simple math problems in your head. Use breathing techniques to help you relax. Meditation can also help you to reduce anxiety.

2. Use Comforting Objects or Medication

Familiar objects can help reduce your anxiety. Consider bringing a stress ball with you to help alleviate your anxiety. Alternatively, bring a companion with you to keep you calm. Even if the dentist’s workspace is too cramped for an extra person, knowing that someone is waiting for you nearby can be comforting. Many dentists recommend using anti-anxiety medication or can even provide medication to calm you down.

3. Establish a Signal

Establish a “stop” signal with your dentist. When you use the signal, the dentist will stop and allow you to recover before continuing. This will allow you to feel more in control of the visit, which will also help you to relax.

4. Find the Dentist Who’s Right for You

Everyone has different personalities and there are some personalities that mesh with your own better than others. Your dentist is no exception. Do some research and find a dentist whose personality will help you feel at ease.

5. Face Your Fears

Dental phobia can be caused from a wide variety of things. Prior traumatic dental experiences or even indirect experiences can cause dental phobia. General anxiety can also cause dental phobia. Acknowledge your fears and discuss them with your dentist. Your dentist has dealt with nervous or anxious patients in the past and likely has several techniques for helping to reduce dental anxiety.

Allowing your fear to prevent you visiting the dentist can severely hurt your health. It’s important to take the measures you need to overcome these fears. Your dentist will work with you to make your dental visit as painless as possible. To schedule an appointment, contact Jenson Dental today!

Conventional Implants vs Mini Implants

 

 

Dental implants are typically used to replace missing teeth or to anchor dentures in place. Teeth can be lost as a result of decay, traumatic injuries to the facial region, or extraction. Replacing teeth is important, because the empty space can lead to oral bone loss. Implants are a great option for restoring both function and form. There are two types of implants that can be used in our office.

Conventional Implants

Conventional implants are larger and last for over 40 years. When inserted, they can feel and look the same as a natural tooth. Conventional implants are often used when a wider space, such as that caused by a missing molar, needs to be filled. They require a significant amount of bone structure. Sometimes, this means bone grafting will be required, and conventional implants typically require more planning. They are strong and lasting, but may require several months of waiting.

Mini Implants

As their name suggests, mini implants are approximately half the size of conventional implants. Mini implants usually used to fill a more narrow missing space, like that of a missing incisor. They don’t need quite as much bone structure as a conventional implant and can be an option for those with less bone density. Mini implants can usually be placed within an hour. They are significantly cheaper than conventional implants, and eliminate the need for an invasive surgery. They are relatively new and, as such, there aren’t many results on the longevity of mini implants.

Which Implant is Right for Me?

This varies from case to case. It will depend on the reason for getting an implant, your personal bone density, budget, and a variety of other concerns. An expert will be able to tell you which implant would be most beneficial in your case. To find out the best option for you, contact us at Jenson Dental today!