i-CAT® 3D Imaging

Physicians have relied on computerized axial tomography scans (CAT) for many years. CAT scans are an X-ray procedure that uses many different X-ray images with the help of computers to generate cross-sectional or even 3D views of internal organs and structures within the body. A knee replacement surgery, for example, would never be performed without first examining 3D imaging.

More recently however, dentists have begun to rely on 3D imaging techniques and i-CAT® scans to provide them with a detailed view of the mouth and skull. The advantage that 3D imaging holds over regular dental X-rays is that bone structure, bone density, tissues, and nerves can be viewed clearly.

i-CAT® scans can be completed in less than half a minute. This means that far less radiation enters the body than if a regular set of bitewing X-rays were taken. The main use for i-CAT® scans is as an aid to plan dental implant treatment and other oral surgery.

Dental implants are the most sophisticated replacement for missing teeth, but have historically proven to be time-consuming to place. i-CAT® scans vastly reduce the time it takes to place implants. It is thought that in the near future implants will be placed in a single visit because of this unique type of imaging.

How are i-CAT® scans used?

i-CAT® scans are advantageous because they allow the dentist to magnify specific areas of the face. In addition, the dentist can easily view cross-sectional “slices” of the jaw, which makes planning treatment easier and faster.

Here are some of the main ways in which i-CAT® scans are used in dentistry:

Assess the quality of the jawbone where the implant will be placed.
Determine where nerves are located.
Diagnose tumors and disease in the early stages.
Measure the density of the jawbone where the implant will be placed.
Pinpoint the most effective placement for implants, including the angle of best fit.
Plan the complete surgical procedure in advance, from start to finish.
Precisely decide on the appropriate size and type of implants.
View exact orientation and position of each tooth.
View impacted teeth.

How are i-CAT® scans performed?

i-CAT® scans are quick and simple to perform. A Cone Beam Imaging System is at the heart of the i-CAT® scanner. During the scan, the patient sits stationary on a designated seat. The cone beams are used to take literally hundreds of pictures of the face. These pictures are used to compile an exact 3D image of the inner mechanisms of the face and jaw. The dentist is able to zoom in on specific areas and view them from alternate angles.

Previous patients report the i-CAT® scanner is comfortable because they remain in a sitting position at all times. Additionally, the scanner provides an open environment, meaning that claustrophobic feelings are eliminated. The i-CAT® scan is an incredible tool that is minimizing the cost of dental treatment, reducing treatment time and enhancing the end results of dental surgery.

If you have questions or concerns about i-CAT® scans or 3D imaging, please contact our office.

Testimonials

In one word 'outstanding'. I have had dental services from Cambridge, Mass to Dallas, Texas in my life but I have never ever come across such a truly outstanding practice. Dr. Christopher Yoo, and his father Dr. Yoo Senior, are both outstanding professionals. They have created, trained, and nurtured an outstanding staff from the reception desk all the way to the operatories. I will have to use my calculator to count the number of times Dr. Yoo uses gentle and comforting words like "sir", "please", "thank you", "appreciate it", etc. When I am in the operatory, I have the honor and pleasure of being in a very refined and multitalented company of Dr. Yoo, who takes the time to explain and teach all aspects of his treatment and empower the patient to follow up and take care of their dental hygiene. I want to specially mention appreciation by Dr. Yoo's peers. My friend Dr. Kevin G. Murphy, Baltimore, who is a well regarded periodontal-prosthodontic practitioner thinks very highly of Dr. Yoo and he personally recommended that my wife and me to be under Dr. Yoo's general dentistry practice and care. Please convey this review and my thanks to Dr. Yoo and his staff.

Subhash K.

This was my first visit to Dr. Yoo's clinic and I was very impressed with all aspects of the practice. When I called to make an appointment, I was scheduled for the very next day. The receptionist was gracious and very polite, both on the phone while making my appointment and when I arrived at the clinic. The person who referred me to Dr. Yoo had told me many things about the practice, so although I wasn't surprised, I was very impressed with the high-tech environment and the way it was used to make me both better informed and very comfortable during my initial examination and cleaning. Especially interesting was the digital imaging of my teeth and the camera tool that provided a real-time image of my individual teeth. All of these images were present on a screen that I could view while in the chair. Dr. Yoo was very personal, patient, and supportive, and took time to carefully explain his findings and recommendations. I highly recommend Dr. Yoo and his staff and look forward (really!) to my next visit.

Marilyn D.