3D Dental Diagnostic Information for Patients

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

At nSequence, we strive to serve you to the best of our abilities. We would like to answer
questions patients often ask regarding our i-CAT 3D imaging system. Please take some
time to read the following information carefully as it may answer many of your questions.

What is a Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scanner?
Decades of advancements in dental and medical technology have allowed the CBCT to
be developed and regarded today as one of the most advanced methods of capturing 3D
images of patients. The technology captures literally hundreds of X-Ray images in under
a minute. Additionally, the i-CAT scanner rotates around the patient, allowing for a
complete 360° imaging of the target scan. On the other hand, a conventional 1-layer
X-Ray captures only a 2 dimensional snapshot that would not allow the clinician to
discern varying density of tissue that could otherwise be identified as bone, nerves, skin,
or any other soft tissue within the scanning range. But with the i-CAT imaging machine,
a clinician could analyze the scan virtually layer by layer, which allows for more accurate
analysis and diagnosis when assessing and planning treatment options for the patient.

Should I prepare ahead of time for the scanning? Does it hurt?
There is absolutely nothing to worry about with the CBCT i-CAT scanner. A patient simply comes to our scanning center, sit on the provided chair in the machine, allow the scanner to rotate around the head, and that's it! The entire scanning process should last for only 40 seconds at maximum. It is absolutely painless and speedy.

It is strongly recommended that a patient does not wear jewelry or any items of clothing containing metallic components as it will cause the machine to return with inaccurate results. Glasses, hair cosmetics such as pins and clips, and hats must be removed prior to the scanning. If you are currently using dentures or other dental cosmetics, you may bring these as technicians may have you use these items while scanning.

I'm worried about radiation. Is there a lot of radiation emitted from the i-CAT machine?
Radiation emitted from the i-CAT scanner is actually 10 times less than a standard CT scanner found in hospitals. Additionally, a patient is typically exposed to the radiation for less than a minute which further minimizes radiation exposure to the patient. Radiation exposure is incredibly low, considering the hundreds of images are captured within than 10-40 second window of scanning.

What are the benefits to the i-CAT scanner?
As mentioned above, the scanning is incredibly quick and easy, saving both you and your dentist time. In addition, because the scanning is highly accurate, it truly allows your dentist to accurately diagnose your anatomy and assess any risk that may be discovered by the scanning. Crucial components of your mouth such as jawbone structure, teeth roots, critical nerves, and nasal cavity could be closely analyzed accurately, allowing the dentist to have the most accurate treatment options for you.