Across the board, they noted that i-CAT provided the best, most consistent images, so, I decided to invest in an i-CAT® FLX. For implant patients, it is incredible to have the ability to incorporate a scan of the patient’s edentulous area, and then
use my digital impression system to decide exactly where to place the implant in relationship to the other teeth without taking traditional impressions. I can also generate surgical guides using the CBCT data dental curing light.
i-CAT helps my referring clinicians and me plan more exactly. One recent case that I shared with a periodontist involved an 18-year-old female who needed crown-lengthening surgery in the anterior. We took an i-CAT FLX scan and intra-oral 3D images of the dental models and superimposed the dental model over the scan to actually show the surgeon the soft tissue and hard tissue. With this information, he stated that he could make better decisions about whether to remove osseous structure or do a gingivectomy. This kind of planning with my colleagues is amazing.
In my opinion, what sets i-CAT FLX apart from the competition is its flexibility and control over radiation dose and scan size. For my younger patients who have been referred by other doctors to evaluate the airway, I have the control with my i-CAT to check their anatomy without exposing them to excess radiation. Since I find it helpful to check the patient’s airway opening with the appliance in place, I can take a QuickScan+ and know that I have full 3D information with less exposure than a 2D pan dental equipment.
Sleep dentistry is another big aspect of my practice. My imaging protocol typically includes using a 3D scan to check temporomandibular joints to assess any pre-existing disease. Sleep appliances advance the mandible, and this can result in pain for some of these patients. I want to know those details and educate them to the possible issues. Scans are also taken on pain and TMJ patients, as indicated, and can also be helpful in restorative cases and Invisalign® procedures.
I believe that digital imaging, when used responsibly, can help clinicians to become better diagnosticians and patient educators.
I believe that digital imaging, when used responsibly, can help clinicians to become better diagnosticians and patient educators. This improved diagnosis and subsequent treatment can lead to improved dental care, more compliance, and treatment plan acceptance portable dental unit. While I can’t change my patients’ whole world, I can strive to change a part of it for the better when I alleviate the pain of TMD or help them get a good night’s sleep with a new appliance. Knowing that I can offer that level of care helps me to sleep better at night, too.