Is there anything I need to do to prepare for a Cone Beam CT Scan?

There's very little preparation needed for a cone beam scan. You might be asked to take off any jewelry or metal, and you'll likely wear a protective apron. Your dental team will guide you through specific instructions.

Dental Technology | Dental Office Near Des Moines, IA

Precise Dental Technology for Improved Results

Dental technology bridges what we can see with what we need to know. At Hickman Family Dental, our equipment does more than capture images—it translates physical details into clinical insights. Each technological tool—the iTero scanner, Cone Beam CT, and Kavo treatment units—captures information invisible to the naked eye, turning complex biological data into clear diagnostic paths. We’re focused on one goal: understanding your oral health with the sharpest possible clarity.

Explore the diagnostic capabilities of modern dental technology. Connect with our Urbandale dental practice at (515) 276-4981.

Kavo Treatment Units

The Kavo treatment units at our Urbandale dental practice represent the pinnacle of dental chair technology. These sophisticated units integrate multiple dental tools into one streamlined system, allowing Dr. Erickson to perform procedures with enhanced precision and efficiency.

The ergonomic design of Kavo units benefits both patients and dental staff. Patients experience superior comfort during procedures thanks to the chair’s adaptive positioning and pressure-relieving cushioning. For Dr. Erickson and the dental team, the units’ intuitive controls and optimal tool placement reduce physical strain and improve workflow.

Key features of our Kavo treatment units include:

Integrated imaging displays for immediate result-sharing
LED lighting systems that minimize shadows and eye strain
Synchronized instrument delivery for smoother procedures
Advanced infection control measures built into the design

iTero Digital Scanner

The iTero digital scanner revolutionizes the traditional impression-taking process at Hickman Family Dental. Dr. Erickson uses this advanced technology to create detailed 3D models of patients’ teeth and gums without the discomfort of conventional impression materials.

This state-of-the-art scanner captures thousands of images per second, producing highly accurate digital impressions for various dental procedures:

Clear aligner therapy planning
Crown and bridge design
Implant placement mapping
Orthodontic treatment tracking

Real-time imaging allows patients to see their oral structures on-screen during scanning, fostering a better understanding of their dental conditions and proposed treatments. The immediate availability of digital models also speeds up treatment planning and reduces wait times for dental prosthetics.

Cone Beam CT Scan

The Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scanner at our Urbandale, IA location provides detailed 3D imaging of oral structures, helping Dr. Erickson plan complex procedures with unprecedented precision. This technology visually views teeth, bones, soft tissues, and airways in minutes.

CBCT scanning serves multiple purposes in modern dentistry:

Precise implant placement planning
Root canal therapy mapping
TMJ analysis
Airway assessment for sleep apnea
Evaluation of bone structure for oral surgery

The scanner’s low radiation dose and quick scanning time make it a safe and efficient diagnostic tool. These detailed images help Dr. Erickson communicate treatment plans clearly to patients while improving procedural accuracy and outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Digital scanning with the iTero system eliminates the need for messy traditional impressions. The process is faster, more comfortable, and produces more accurate results. These digital impressions can be stored indefinitely and easily shared with dental laboratories or specialists when needed.

Kavo units incorporate advanced ergonomics, integrated technology, and superior infection control features. The design promotes better access for your dentist during procedures while maximizing patient comfort through adaptive positioning and premium materials.

Yes, CBCT scanning is safe and uses significantly less radiation than traditional medical CT scans. Your dentist will follow strict safety protocols and only recommend CBCT scans when the diagnostic benefits justify minimal radiation exposure.

Digital technologies generally reduce appointment times compared to traditional methods. For example, iTero scanning takes just minutes compared to conventional impressions, while CBCT scans complete in less than a minute.

Most dental insurance plans cover procedures performed with these technologies similarly to traditional methods. Your dentist’s office staff can help verify your coverage and explain any differences in coverage levels.

The Architecture of Confidence

Are you tired of feeling self-conscious about your smile? Living in West Des Moines, Clive, or Johnston, your dream smile is just a phone call away! At Hickman Family Dental, we understand that a dental visit isn’t just about treatment—it’s about restoring your confidence, healing your dental anxieties, and helping you rediscover the joy of smiling without hesitation. Dr. Erickson and our compassionate team are ready to transform your dental experience from something you dread to something you look forward to.

Take the first step towards a life-changing smile by calling our Urbandale dentist at (515) 276-4981 today. Your journey to renewed confidence, improved oral health, and a breathtaking smile start with one courageous decision. Don’t wait another moment to invest in yourself—your future self will thank you.

Dental Technology at Hickman Family Dental