Summary
When 3D imaging became available for practitioners in Orthodontics, Oral Surgery and Dentistry, the question most often asked is: "
Does 3D imaging really make any difference in my treatment planning and treatment of my patients?" The information gained with 3D imaging is obvious, but does it really make any difference, especially in 'routine cases'?
Analysis
I am the first practitioner in Alabama to have 3D Conebeam CT (CBCT) X-ray imaging and the first orthodontist in the USA to have CBCT AND 3dMD Facial 3D imaging for routine use on patients. (see website at www.drharrell.com) I wrote these articles to help to answer the question "Does 3D imaging make any difference on 'routine orthodontic cases'.
Part I of the June 2009 Article "Should we use 3D imaging for “routine orthodontic cases” - Part I ? can be found at the following link: http://www.pcsortho.org/newswire/Harrell_3D_Imaging.cfm
Part I shows two similar cases and the doctor is asked to review the Two-Dimensional (2D) imaging and make their treatment plan(s) based only on this routine 2D information. The 2D records are the 'standard' records presently taken by practitioners at the present time. \
Part II of the September 2009 Article "Should we use 3D imaging for “routine orthodontic cases” - Part II ? can be found at the following link:
http://www.pcsortho.org/bulletin/F09_Harrell_PtII.cfm
Part II shows the 3D (Three-dimensional) information of these two 'routine cases'.
The question is asked: "does the 3D information change your treatment plan in any way ?
The results and comments to this article have been an astounding YES. The 3D information gives information that would have been missed and does make a significant difference on the treatment plan and how the cases may be treated.
Orthodontics, Oral Surgery and Dentistry are becoming more aware of the importance of 3D imaging and the added value to their practices.
