Computed tomography of the jaw

Computed tomography of the maxillofacial region is a highly informative diagnostic method that is widely used in dentistry.

A CT scan of the jaw provides a three-dimensional image of the tooth. The technique allows you to see the anatomical features of the teeth, dental roots and canals, to find out the state of the jaw bone tissue. The results of dental computed tomography are widely used in pediatric dentistry, therapeutic, surgical, orthopedic, orthodontic treatment.

You can make a CT scan of the jaw in Moscow at the medical center "K+31". The clinic is equipped with modern equipment and offers a wide range of diagnostic services, including the latest types of CT.

Types of computed tomography

Conventionally, CT can be divided into four types:

  1. Linear. One of the simplest types of tomography, used to diagnose any part of the body.
  2. Spiral (SKT). A faster method, which is characterized by a low radiation load on the body. This is ensured by the fact that the components of the tomography ring rotate in the middle of the device.
  3. Multispiral (MSCT of the jaw). A more advanced CT method that is used to diagnose hard and soft tissues. When it is carried out, the sensors are located around the entire perimeter of the tomographic ring. This makes it possible to increase the speed of work, the quality of images and reduce the level of radiation exposure to the body.
  4. Cone beam (CBCT). The latest achievement in the field of computed tomography. It is used to diagnose pathological changes in the bone structures of the skull.

CBCT in Moscow on modern equipment is carried out in the medical center "K+31". The procedure is performed by experienced diagnosticians who are familiar with all the features of the technique, which guarantees its safety and effectiveness.

CT of the jaws: what is it

Diagnosis is based on the use of X-rays. During the scan, a generator in the tomograph machine generates beams that pass through the human body. In this case, part of the energy that is captured by a special detector is lost. Next, the computer evaluates the difference between the initial beam energy and its amount at the output. A computer system generates and writes data onto X-ray film. As a result, the diagnostician receives a three-dimensional image.

CT of the two jaws gives the doctor the opportunity to detect any pathological processes and disorders in the structure of the patient's bone tissues. Thanks to this, you can evaluate the state:

  • Paranasal sinuses.
  • Upper and lower jaw.
  • Crowns and fillings.
  • Canals, roots and impacted teeth.

CT is a highly accurate diagnosis that makes it possible to identify various pathologies of the jaw and evaluate their parameters. In addition, CT of the jaw is widely used for implantation of teeth, obtaining information about the condition and size of blood vessels, maxillary sinuses, canals, and the temporomandibular joint. This allows you to accurately select the size and shape of the implant.

With the help of modern tomographs, it is possible to separately perform CT of the upper jaw and CT of the lower jaw.

Currently, CT is the optimal and most accurate method for diagnosing the dentoalveolar system.

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) of the jaw

CBCT is a subspecies of computed tomography, which refers to modern radiological methods. The study has a higher level of safety and accuracy compared to conventional computed tomography.

CBCT in dentistry is an opportunity for the doctor to:

  • Assess the condition of the patient's dental system.
  • Examine the dimensions of the alveolar process of the lower or upper jaw.
  • To control the placement of implants in the oral cavity.
  • Visualize the temporomandibular joint.
  • Assess the positioning of impacted teeth.
  • Examine the condition of the inner ear and temporal bone.
  • Get data on the health of the paranasal sinuses.

Computed tomography of the maxillofacial region can also be used to assess the condition of the bones of the facial skeleton after an injury or in preparation for plastic surgery. The price of diagnostics depends on a number of factors: the equipment used, whether a contrast agent was used, etc.

Indications for research

Computed tomography of the jaw is prescribed in such cases:

  • Jaw injuries due to trauma.
  • The presence of pathologies in the structure of the dentition during orthodontic correction.
  • Drawing up a computer model of the jaw for the manufacture of dental implants.
  • In preparation for orthodontic surgery.
  • The presence of neoplasms.
  • Diagnosis of latent caries.
  • Pathological processes in the dental canals.

CT of the upper and lower jaws is prescribed as part of the control diagnostics during complex dental treatment.

Contraindications to the procedure

It is impossible to make a CT scan of the jaw with:

  • Pregnancy.
  • During lactation.
  • The presence of a pacemaker.
  • Child under 6 years of age.

CT with contrast is not performed if the patient is allergic to iodine, diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, kidney or liver failure.

Preparation for CT of the maxillofacial region

The study does not require special preparation. Immediately before the CT scan, the patient needs to remove metal objects, including removable dentures, piercings, and jewelry.

The procedure is carried out by appointment.

How is a CT scan done?

Computed tomography of the maxillofacial region is performed in a sitting or standing position (depending on the type of scanner and device settings).

Procedure algorithm:

  1. The diagnostician adjusts the location of the scanner to the height of the patient.
  2. The subject puts on a special vest with lead inserts to protect against radiation.
  3. The patient is placed in front of the tomograph, puts his head in a special stand with support for the forehead and chin.
  4. The doctor moves to the next office, from where he maintains contact with the patient through the speaker and controls the device.
  5. The tomography sensors rotate around the person's head, while taking pictures. During this time, it is important to remain completely still - this is necessary to obtain clear, high quality images.

During the examination, the patient does not experience any discomfort. The duration of the procedure is 1 minute. During this time, the tomograph manages to create up to 600 images.

Research results

A computer program simulates a three-dimensional CT scan of the jaw from the obtained images. The specialist writes the results to disk.

The patient transfers the electronic media to the attending physician, who draws up a conclusion, diagnoses and prescribes treatment based on the data received.

Diagnostic benefits

Tomography of the jaw is widely used in diagnostics. Its advantages include:

  • Speed. The procedure takes several minutes, this time is enough to create a large number of high-quality images.
  • High level of information content. CT allows you to get high-quality images that show even small pathologies.
  • Security. Irradiation on modern devices is minimal, so scanning can be done up to 20 times a year.

A positive factor of the procedure is its availability - CT of the jaw has a lower price than MRI diagnostics.

CT of the jaw in Moscow

The clinic "K+31" uses a new generation tomograph. The device allows you to get high-precision images with a minimum level of patient exposure. The procedure is carried out by diagnosticians with extensive practical experience.

You can make an appointment at a convenient time for you by calling +7 (499) 999-31-31. By this number you can also get information about the nuances of diagnostics, services and promotions of the clinic.

Service record



Specialists

All specialists
Sinitsyn
Valentine Evgenyevich

Chief Consultant in Radiation Diagnostics, Radiologist

Doctor of Sciences, PhD, professor

Puzakov
Kirill Borisovich

Leading Consultant in Radiology, Radiologist

Chichkanova
Tatyana Vladimirovna

Oncologist-mammologist, radiologist

Kondratyev
Eugene Valerevich

Leading CT Specialist, MRI

PhD, leading research fellow

Sychenkova
Irina Yuryevna

Leading MRI Specialist

Leading expert MNIOI them. P.A. Herzen

Schulz
Eugene Igorevich

Leading neuroradiologist in MRI and CT diagnostics

PhD

Vasilieva
Yulia Nikolaevna

Radiologist, leading specialist in radiation diagnostics

PhD

Maso
Michael Lvovich

Mammologist, radiologist, ultrasound diagnostician

PhD

Yagizarov
Imran Rasulovich

Head of the department of radiation diagnostics, radiologist