3D cone beam X-ray?

[rosie28]

My dentist has advised I need a 3d conebeam X-ray done. I have never had one of these before. Will these X-rays take detailed photos of my whole mouth/teeth and jaw? Why are they different to normal x rays that general dentists will take? Are they used to see if someone needs root canal? Can't see my dentist until next Thursday for my results and still having weird mouth and teeth pains going on so I am getting anxious.

 

[decan]

X-rays are 2d images of 3d objects. A cone beam lets your dentist see that pesky third dimension and it is more accurate than normal X-rays. They are used for a variety of reasons so its tough to say why your dentist ordered one.

 

[comfortdentist]

Does your dentist own one?

 

[rosie28]

No I had to go to a radiology centre to have the conebeam x ray taken. The specialist referred me. I am from Australia and although most dental is not covered by our medicare system the conebeam x ray is and so that meant it was actually free for me to get done (thank goodness!) But all other dental procedures are full cost.