How 3D Imaging Is Changing the Way We Do Dentistry

Dental technology has come a long way, and if you haven’t been to the dentist in a while, you might be surprised by how high-tech things have gotten. One of the most significant changes we’ve seen in recent years is the rise of 3D imaging.

These advanced tools are making dental visits more accurate, more comfortable, and more personalized than ever before. At Anderson Family Dental, we’re committed to bringing you cutting-edge solutions for superior care and advanced diagnostic tools are an important part of how we do that. You're in the right place if you’re curious about how 3D imaging works (and what it means for your care).

WHAT IS 3D DENTAL IMAGING?

Let’s start with the basics. Traditional dental X-rays show a two-dimensional picture of your teeth and jaw, kind of like a flat snapshot. But 3D cone beam CT (CBCT) scans take things to a whole new level.

With this type of 3D imaging, our team can view your teeth, bone, nerves, and soft tissue from every angle. These scans create a super detailed, three-dimensional model of your mouth, helping us see the full picture, not just what’s on the surface.

It’s a fast, painless process that usually takes less than a minute to deliver incredibly detailed images, allowing for improved diagnoses and even better treatment plans.

WHY IT MATTERS: MORE ACCURATE CARE FOR BETTER LONG-TERM OUTCOMES

When it comes to your oral health, accuracy is everything. 3D scans help us diagnose problems more precisely, which means better results for you. Whether it’s planning a dental implant, checking for an infection, or evaluating bone loss, 3D imaging gives us the information we need to give you the best options for your oral health.

Because we can see your teeth and jaw in 3D, we can catch issues early, avoid complications, and make your treatment as smooth and effective as possible. In short, 3D imaging helps us do our job even better and it helps you receive even better care.

HOW WE USE 3D DENTAL XRAYS AT ANDERSON FAMILY DENTAL

If you're preparing for a treatment like a dental implant, 3D imaging can make a big difference in your care. At our office, we use advanced CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scans to plan treatments with exceptional accuracy.

These detailed images allow us to see the exact position of important structures—like bone, nerves, and sinuses—before we begin any procedure. This level of insight leads to safer, more predictable outcomes and allows us to perform even complex treatments with greater confidence and precision.

In addition to implant planning, CBCT imaging is also helpful for:

• Complicated tooth extractions

• Orthodontic treatment planning

• TMJ (jaw joint) evaluations

• Airway assessments related to sleep concerns

With this technology, we’re able to provide care that’s not only more accurate but also more comfortable and efficient for you.

DIGITAL IMPRESSIONS FOR A MORE COMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE

Most people don’t enjoy traditional dental impressions—and we don’t blame you. That uncomfortable tray full of goo that often triggered gagging is quickly becoming a thing of the past. Thanks to digital 3D scanning, we can now take highly accurate impressions of your teeth and gums without the mess.

Using a small handheld scanner, we capture a detailed digital model of your mouth in just minutes. The process is clean, quick, and comfortable—with no goop required. Even better, the precision of 3D scans means fewer errors, less time in the chair, and fewer follow-up appointments.

Digital impressions are ideal for:

• Crowns and bridges

• Veneers

• Clear aligners (like Invisalign®)

• Night guards

Once scanned, you’ll be able to see a digital model of your teeth right away. From there, our team here at Anderson Family Dental in Winter Park, FL can design and produce your custom restoration on-site with our in-house CEREC mill. For cases that require a dental lab, your scan is sent digitally—speeding up turnaround times and improving accuracy.

Modern technology makes your dental experience smoother, faster, and more comfortable than ever.

TRADITIONAL IMAGING STILL HAS ITS PLACE

Even though 3D technology is amazing, traditional imaging tools like 2D digital x-rays and intraoral photos are still incredibly useful.

• Digital X-rays are great for detecting cavities, checking root health, and monitoring changes over time. They also use less radiation than a 3D scan, making them the better choice for routine check-ups and issues that can be handled with a regular x-ray.

• Intraoral photos are small camera images we take inside your mouth to help you see what we see. They’re helpful when explaining treatment options and showing you any areas of concern.

These tools work alongside 3D imaging to give us a complete, well-rounded view of your oral health. It’s all about using the right tool for the job.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOUR SMILE

Improvements in dental technology are exciting, but what does this state-of-the-art technology at Anderson Family Dental really mean for your care?

• Fewer surprises: We can spot and address issues before they become big problems.

• Better results: Treatments are more precise, leading to better long-term outcomes.

• More comfort and convenience: No messy impressions and fewer visits for redos.

• A personal touch: Thanks to the detailed information we get from scans, we can precisely tailor your dental care to your unique smile.

At the end of the day, 3D imaging helps us care for you in a way that’s faster, safer, and more effective. And that’s always our goal.

EXPERIENCE MODERN DENTISTRY IN WINTER PARK

Curious about 3D dental imaging or what today’s advanced dental care looks like? Whether you're visiting for a routine checkup, exploring dental implants, or simply interested in modern technology, we’d love to welcome you to our office.

At our Winter Park, FL location, we combine leading-edge technology with personalized, compassionate care. We believe that investing in the best tools allows us to deliver the best possible experience—and results—for you.

Ready to discover what modern dentistry can do for your smile? Give us a call today. We can’t wait to meet you!

SCHEDULE AN APPOINTMENT

---

Dr. Bryant Anderson, DMD

Dr. Bryant Anderson knew from a young age that he wanted to become a dentist. He studied Biology and Chemistry at Utah Valley University. He continued his education at the University of Florida College of Dentistry earning his Doctorate in Dental Medicine. As a top-ranking graduate in his dental class, Dr. Bryant Anderson was inducted into the dental honor society OKU. READ MORE