We provide versatile X-ray services, that allow us to ensure the current state of patient’s oral health and notice possible dental problems. This way we can provide accurate and individual treatment plans to achieve the best possible results.
X-ray diagnostics
Careful diagnostics lays the foundation for a good treatment plan and for a successful treatment. Dental examination carried out by a dentist is often not enough on its own, and the examination needs to be supplemented with an X-ray.
The tooth X-ray needed is always planned individually for each patient in accordance with a referral made based on the dental examination done by a dentist. In Helmiäinen Dental Clinic, any imaging done with a panoramic dental X-ray and a cone beam computed tomography is interpreted and statements given by the dental specialist of oral radiology.
A panoramic dental X-ray of teeth and the jaw
With a panoramic dental X-ray, an overview of the jaw, teeth and the temporomandibular joint area is captured in a single image. The panoramic dental X-ray is a basic examination of dental X-ray diagnostics that is used to rule out latent inflammations of dental origin, to check for decay and to assess the temporomandibular joints and bone structure, for example.
The radiation dose from one panoramic dental X-ray is equivalent to a round-trip flight from Helsinki to Rome, for example.
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)
Cone beam computed tomography is an imaging technique that captures three-dimensional images. The three-dimensionality enables seeing the exact location of anatomical structures and measuring them in all directions, and it provides a reliable diagnostic.
In dentistry, the cone beam computed tomography is used in diagnostically more challenging situations, such as in locating unclear inflammation sites, in cyst and tumour diagnostics or in searching for the cause for pain conditions in the teeth area. CBCT is used especially in planning oral surgery procedures.
The radiation dose resulting from CBCT is often larger than with panoramic dental X-rays, and it depends on things such as the anatomical location of the area that the imaging is used for, the size of the area and doses used in the imaging. However, most imaging done with CBCT can be carried out using Ultra Low Dose (ULD) or Low Dose (LD) programmes whereby the radiation dose can remain even smaller than in panoramic dental X-rays.
The reason for the imaging and the patient’s qualities affect the factors mentioned above. CBCT imaging is carefully planned under the guidance of an oral radiologist.
Splints for dental implants
With a 3D printer, we can prepare different computer-aided, patient-specific splints and anatomical models. Implants, for example, can be placed precisely in the location and position corresponding to the design with the help of splints.
Computer-aided design and splints improve the precision of the procedure, and in many cases shorten the duration of the procedure. Anatomical models are helpful in planning demanding oral surgery procedures.
Referring doctors
We perform panoramic dental X-rays, as well as CBCT imaging of the jaw, paranasal sinuses and the face and skull area. You can refer your patient with your own referral form, or you can use the attached referral form.
After the referral has been made, ask your patient to book an appointment for imaging through the Helmiäinen online booking system or by calling our customer service. We will send the images with statements back to the referring doctor.
Remind your patient to bring with them their KELA card, the referral form, other possible examinations done for comparison and the SV3 form signed by the dental specialist/specialist doctor.