I know that I usually do blogs about CEREC but every once in a while I need to brag on my other favorite piece of technology, my XG3D.  I've had it for about 9 months now and am just starting to make time to really learn how the optimize it's value, guided implant placement.  That being said, it is days like today that also remind me of what a great investment I made in my practice for both me and my patients. 

A patient came in today who has been a patient for many years at our practice.  She had a sinus infection last fall and was having discomfort to chewing on #14 which happened to be the same side as the sinus infection.  I didn't have my XG3D at the time so I took a PA, didn't see much, so I sent her to an endodontic specialist for a second opinion.  The specialist could not determine if it was sinus or tooth related and decided to wait.  

As the sinus infection got better, so did the tooth.  Fast forward to today.  The patient was back in complaining of a sinus infection and again, pain on #14.  This time I had my XG3D ready to go.  I took a PA first to see if there was anything very obvious.  I thought that maybe the db cusp looked suspicious, but nothing so definitive.  I then took a scan and BOOM, there it was.  Very large apical abscess in MB and DB root as well as a small one on the palate.  

The patient will receive endodontic treatment and should be back on the road to recovery.  It is times like today, that I can't begin to put a price on what 3D imaging does for my practice.  To be able to look my patient in the eye and tell them what their problem is goes a long way when trying to gain their trust.  3D imaging has really changed my practice for the better. 

Yes, I concur. Over and over. I have said it many times. It is invaluable. Radiographic protocol will become 3D Scan, BW's, and PA's when needed. The argument that you need to look through the volume and be responsible for it is absolutely spot on. It is not an argument for those Doctors that wish to be thorough and complete, but rather a necessity. There is no other way to be as thorough and complete. Our patients deserve us to give them the best, and Sirona technology allows us to. Be the best, be thorough, use the XG3D, and see what you have been missing. I love it as well.