A dental exam can tell us a lot. Sometimes, though, we need additional information before recommending what comes next. At Lifeworks Dental, Dr. Kini Tran, DMD, and Dr. Kim H. Nguyen, DDS, use digital imaging and other dental technologies to help us evaluate your oral health or plan treatment. We also take time to review our findings with you and explain the purpose of any scan or tool we recommend.
CBCT 3D Imaging
Certain dental concerns may require more detail than a two-dimensional image can provide. CBCT creates a three-dimensional view of your teeth, jaws, bone, and nearby structures.
For patients looking for 3D dental imaging near me, a CBCT scan may be recommended when detailed information is needed for procedures such as dental implants. CBCT imaging isn’t necessary for every patient. We consider your examination, dental history, and treatment needs when deciding whether this type of scan is appropriate.
Digital X-Rays
Some dental concerns aren’t visible during a visual exam. Digital X-rays help us examine areas between teeth, beneath restorations, and below the gumline.
The images are available for review shortly after they’re taken, and we can enlarge specific areas when necessary. If you’ve been searching for digital X-rays near me, our team can determine which images, if any, are appropriate based on your current oral health and dental history.
Intraoral Camera
Some areas of your mouth are difficult to view on your own. An intraoral camera provides close-up images that give you a better look at these areas.
The small camera allows us to photograph individual teeth and other areas inside your mouth. We can use these images to point out worn surfaces, damaged restorations, or changes that need further evaluation. You can see the area we’re examining and better understand what we’re discussing before we move on to treatment options.
iTero Scanner
Taking an impression of your teeth doesn’t always require trays filled with impression material. For appropriate procedures, the iTero scanner uses a handheld wand to create a digital model of your teeth and bite.
If you’re searching for an iTero scanner near me, digital scanning may be part of clear aligner planning or other treatments that require dental impressions. The scan also records tooth position and bite relationships, giving us information that can be used during treatment planning.
Panorex X-Rays
Sometimes we need to evaluate more than one or two teeth at a time. A Panorex X-ray captures a broad image that includes your teeth, upper and lower jaws, and nearby structures.
The machine moves around the outside of your head while the image is taken, so an X-ray sensor doesn’t need to be placed inside your mouth for the panoramic image.
Wax-Up Tooth Models
A proposed change in tooth shape or arrangement can be difficult to visualize before treatment begins. For certain restorative or cosmetic procedures, wax-up tooth models provide a physical representation of the changes being considered. They can help us plan aspects of treatment and give you a clearer idea of what is being discussed before moving forward.
Chairside Monitors
Chairside monitors allow us to review X-rays, photographs, and digital scans with you during your appointment. Instead of simply describing what we see, we can display the images and point out specific areas we’re evaluating. This makes it easier to follow the conversation, ask questions, and understand how our findings relate to your care.
Visit Us
Our office welcomes patients from Spring Branch, Hilshire Village, Hedwig Village, Hunters Creek Village, and Memorial City. If you have questions about dental imaging or a treatment you’re considering, our team can explain which technology may be appropriate for your care and how it supports treatment planning.