Maxillofacial CBCT scans evaluate the bones of the face including the orbits, sinuses, mandible (jaw), and teeth. The maxillofacial CT scan can detect fractures, orbit injury, sinus infections, eye infections, and tumors of the face and nearby tissues.
Read on to learn everything you need to know about maxillofacial CT scans.
What Is A Maxillofacial CT Scan?
A maxillofacial CT scan is a type of dental x-ray that uses a special scanner to take images. The CBCT dental scanner works by rotating around the head and taking pictures of the inside of the mouth. This allows for an accurate diagnosis of maxillofacial problems and traumas.
A CT maxillofacial scan can provide information on how well your jaw is positioned, the bones of the face, orbits, sinuses and teeth. There are many advantages to this kind of dental imaging - it’s painless, takes less time than other types of x-rays, has very few side effects if any at all, and provides instant results!
Common Uses For The Maxillofacial Scan
CT maxillofacial scans are often used in the diagnosis and treatment of diseases, injuries, or other conditions affecting the jawbone, teeth, sinuses, and facial bones. They can also be used to diagnose problems with the skull.
The CT scan is a painless and noninvasive procedure that helps detect hidden problems without requiring surgery.
CT maxillofacial scans are typically used on patients who have suffered some type of trauma or injury to their head or face as well as people who have symptoms such as chronic headaches or nasal congestion that could indicate a problem with their sinuses.
How To Prepare For The Maxillofacial Scan
The first step in preparing for a maxillofacial scan is getting a referral from your doctor based on your medical records and your consultation.
When you go in for your maxillofacial CT scan appointment, be sure to bring any relevant x-rays or other previous imaging tests you've had done as well as any other documentation that might be pertinent such as laboratory reports or specialist referrals.
A CBCT scanner will take an X-ray of your head and neck, but unlike a traditional dental X-ray it will also create high quality 3D images of the bone structures involved.
A maxillofacial scan can detect many conditions including oral cancer, jaw tumors (osteomyelitis), cysts (submandibular), benign tumors (benign osteoclastoma), congenital defects (cleft lip) or traumatic injuries.
It's important to know what you're looking for before going into the procedure so it's best if you have been given a specific diagnosis by your doctor or dentist ahead of time which the radiologist may ask about during the examination.
What To Expect After The Maxillofacial Scan
There are no risks associated with a maxillofacial scan. There may be some discomfort during the procedure due to the tube that is inserted in your mouth and throat, but this will go away soon after the test.
The test usually takes about 10 minutes and does not require any preparation beforehand. If you experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure, let your doctor know so they can quickly address it.
What Will The Maxillofacial Scan Results Show?
The maxillofacial scan will show a cross-section of the sinuses, teeth, and jaw. They are used to detect potential problems that may arise in these areas.
It’s important to note that while maxillofacial scans are useful in detecting many problems, they cannot be used as a replacement for the treatment of any diagnosed problem that may arise.
Your doctor will decide whether or not you need this test based on what symptoms you have been experiencing. CT maxillofacial scans are one of the many imaging scans we offer at Reveal Diagnostics.
If you would like to learn more about them, please contact us today!