Radiological examination
It is an integral part of the orthognathic surgery and odontology plan. This examination is done aiming to assess the state of the maxilla and mandible and the surrounding areas (paranasal antrums, facial bones), also the state of teeth and the surrounding tissues.
Single tooth radiogram
This simple diagnostic radiological method is applied when the location of the problem is known – causal tooth. Once the image is taken, an exact view of 1-2 dental crowns and their roots can be seen. This image is also done in cases when the view in the panoramic image is not clear, or insufficiently clear to identify the process taking place around the tooth. Irradiation during the execution of this examination equals to the dose of the natural radiation received in half a day.
Panoramic x-ray image
It’s a synoptic radiogram, necessary for the qualitative performance of the initial consultation. Without it, a proper consultation is nearly impossible; therefore, we require every coming patient to have it at hand, and if he/she doesn’t have it, then we suggest having it done at the clinic. In the panoramic image, all teeth, both jaws, maxillary sinuses, and joints of the mandible, are visible. Based on this image, condition of all teeth, overall periodontal state, pathological processes in sinuses, course of the channels of the mandible, shape, and position of heads of mandible joints can be assessed. Having this image is enough if surgical removal of the tooth or non-complex implantation of one or several teeth is planned. Irradiation during this examination is equal to the dose of natural radiation received within four days.
Cone-beam computed tomography (3D)
It is a professional method of examination during which a three-dimensional view of jaws and teeth is obtained. This examination allows for getting invaluable information in cases when implantation, bone reconstruction, or sinus lift surgery is planned. Three-dimensional images will enable us to see all anatomical complexities and obstacles to be encountered during the surgery, so the knowledge about them helps to plan the surgery and avoid them in its course. Computed tomography comes in useful when it is necessary to decide whether the patient needs his/her bone transplantation surgery or if adding the artificial bone during the surgery will be enough.
Moreover, when planning implantation, images of the cross-sections of jaw allow seeing the localization of the mandibular canal and trigeminal nerve. Once its location is measured precisely, the possibility of lesion of this nerve can be excluded. Con beam tomography also allows assessing the content of the sinuses, which is mostly invisible in a panoramic radiogram. Irradiation received during this examination equals a dose of natural light, received by an individual in 15-20 days.
Spiral computed tomography
It is an examination method that was usually applied 10 years ago. A medical computer tomograph is used for its performance. Its resolution is even better than that of cone-beam tomography; however, its application in odontology is decreasing, and it is being outcompeted by cone-beam tomographs due to their lesser irradiation. Irradiation produced during this examination is equal to a dose of natural radiation received in 150-200 days.