Mumbai soon to have first Sirona dental 3D imaging facility

"Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) utilises a series of scans of a patient's face, at different angulations, with a special imaging device to prepare numerous image slices. These slices are then stitched together or reconstructed by a special software to view and measure the patient's facial bones in all three dimension," Dhole said.

"The 3D scan gives the orthodontist an opportunity to carefully study the size, shape, position, volume and proportion of teeth and facial bones. He then accurately plans the treatment to place the teeth in most appropriate position with braces.

Face can be moulded in growing children with specialized growth modification appliances to achieve an attractive smile and well proportioned face. Also, 3D imaging technology is a immensely helpful in diagnosis and treatment of jaw joint pathology and Orthognathic surgery planning," he said.

With this 3D technology, special software can actually show the predicted changes in patients' smile and face with braces or surgical treatment, even before starting the treatment, Dhole said.

Airway analysis with accurate volumetric assessment of airway space can diagnose developing sleep apnea so that timely treatment can be initiated for this condition, he said.