In-House 3D CT Scan in Wheaton, IL
Some dental conditions require more than a standard x-ray to diagnose and plan properly. At 20/32 Dental Co. in Wheaton, IL, we have an in-house cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanner that produces detailed three-dimensional images of your teeth, jawbone, nerves, sinuses, and airway — all in a single, quick scan. Dr. de la Fuente uses this advanced imaging for patients from Wheaton, Glen Ellyn, Carol Stream, and across DuPage County.
What Is Cone Beam CT Scanning?
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a specialized type of x-ray that captures a three-dimensional volume of your oral and maxillofacial structures in a single rotation. Unlike a traditional flat x-ray, a CBCT scan lets Dr. de la Fuente view your anatomy from every angle — rotating, slicing, and zooming into the exact area of concern with sub-millimeter precision.
The scan is taken right here in our Wheaton office, and the 3D image is available for review within minutes. There is no referral to an outside imaging center and no waiting days for results.
When a 3D Scan Makes the Difference
Dental Implant Planning
Placing a dental implant requires precise knowledge of bone density, bone width, nerve locations, and sinus proximity. A CBCT scan provides all of this information in one image, allowing Dr. de la Fuente to plan the optimal implant position before surgery begins.
Complex Extractions
Impacted wisdom teeth or teeth with curved or unusual root anatomy are much safer to remove when the surgeon can see the full 3D picture. The scan reveals the exact relationship between the tooth roots and nearby nerves.
Root Canal Diagnosis
Some infections and fractures are invisible on a standard x-ray. A 3D scan can detect hidden root canals, hairline fractures, and periapical pathology that would otherwise go undiagnosed, supporting more effective root canal therapy.
Orthodontic Assessment
For patients considering clear aligners or other orthodontic treatment, a CBCT scan provides a complete view of tooth positions, root lengths, and jaw relationships to guide treatment planning.
TMJ and Airway Evaluation
The scan captures the temporomandibular joints and airway, helping diagnose jaw joint disorders and screen for conditions like sleep apnea.
Benefits of In-House 3D Imaging
Everything in One Visit
Your scan is taken, reviewed, and discussed during the same appointment. There is no second trip to an imaging center and no delay in beginning treatment.
Lower Radiation Than Medical CT
A dental CBCT scan delivers a fraction of the radiation of a hospital CT scan while still producing highly detailed 3D images tailored to dental diagnostics.
More Precise Treatment
Three-dimensional visualization allows for more accurate diagnoses, more predictable surgical outcomes, and fewer surprises during treatment.
Better Patient Understanding
Seeing a 3D model of your own anatomy on screen makes it easier to understand your diagnosis and feel confident about the recommended treatment plan.
Frequently Asked Questions About 3D CT Scans
Yes. Cone beam CT scans use significantly less radiation than a traditional medical CT scan. A single dental CBCT scan exposes you to roughly the same amount of radiation as a short domestic flight. Dr. de la Fuente only recommends a 3D scan when the diagnostic benefit clearly outweighs the minimal exposure.
The scan itself takes approximately 10 to 20 seconds. You simply stand or sit still while the machine rotates once around your head. The entire appointment, including positioning, typically takes under five minutes.
No. A 3D scan is only recommended when standard digital x-rays do not provide enough information — typically for implant planning, complex extractions, root canal evaluation, or airway assessment. Most routine visits use standard digital x-rays.
Having the scanner on-site means your scan is taken and reviewed during the same appointment. There is no need for a separate trip to an imaging center, no waiting for results to be sent back, and no delays in starting your treatment.
The Complete Picture — Right Here in Our Office
In-house 3D imaging means faster diagnoses and better treatment plans with no extra trips. Schedule your visit at our Wheaton, IL office.
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