Yes. Typical digital x-rays are two-dimensional (flat) black and white images, even if the x-ray scan is taken from one side of your jaw around your head to the other side. While a typical x-ray might provide some initial clues about your bone, it doesn’t allow us to determine the breadth (width), depth (length), or density (thickness) of your jawbone areas with accuracy.
A three-dimensional cone beam computed tomography (3D CBCT) scan of your jaw bone areas is the only way to see the cross-sectional and three-dimensional view of your jaw and any existing teeth. With the 3D CBCT, your implant surgeon will assess the quality of your bone, the need for additional bone grafting, and where the dental implant(s) can be optimally placed in your jaw bone, without disruption to critical nerve and sinus areas.
As an added benefit, from your 3D CBCT scan, we will create a custom surgical guide based on the virtual placement of your implants in the 3D CBCT scan we take, so that the surgical placement of your implants is precise, predictable, and comfortable for you.