3D Dental Imaging in Murrieta

3-D dental imaging takes traditional dental imaging to next level, or more precisely, the next dimension. Dentists now have the ability to take 3-D x-rays that allow them to view the structures of your mouth, face & head from nearly infinite perspectives & in amazingly fine detail.

Whether you’re just starting treatment or evaluating the results of a procedure, 3-D imaging can be a very valuable tool in your dental health.

Unlike traditional x-rays, the 3-D imaging system can create either a 2-D or a 3-D image, & includes scans of your tissues in addition to bones & teeth. The Murrieta dentist can zoom in on the scan, rotate it & view it at any angle, & even look through scans at different depths. We can visualize your teeth, roots, gums, bones, nerves, & airways & how all of these structures relate to each other.

What Is 3D Dental Imaging?

3-D dental imaging is sometimes referred to as cone beam CT scanning, which is the technology that makes the scan possible. The name “cone beam” comes from the precise cone shape of the invisible x-ray beam that the scanner emits. By sending out the beam at different angles, the machine forms an image of your head from many different perspectives, which are compiled to create a complete 3-D representation.

Types of 3D Imaging

The large variety in the types of images a 3-D x-ray machine can generate means that it can apply to many different treatments & dental situations. 3-D dental imaging has applications in endodontics (root canals), oral surgery, orthodontics, prosthodontics, sleep apnea, TMJ disorders, & more. Because the image is of your entire mouth & even your entire head, we can see how your teeth relate to each other in terms of alignment, making it easier to create detailed treatment plans for straightening teeth or replacing them.

3D Dental Scan Is Painless

Getting a 3-D dental scan is completely painless, takes only a few minutes total & requires no preparation beforehand. The cone beam CT scanner is mounted on an arm that rotates around your head while you stand or sit under it. You will be asked to place your chin on a special platform & the entire scanner can be raised or lowered to a height that is comfortable for you. Your only task during the scanning process is to hold as still as possible. The scan usually lasts less than half a minute.

  • 3-D x-ray doesn’t require you to bite down on a sensor like bite-wing x-rays, but you may be asked to bite down on a small disposable tab to help ensure alignment.
  • To get an accurate image, your face must be centered & your mouth level.
  • A brace or strap may be used to keep your head still.
  • The team member carrying out the scan will ensure you’re positioned properly before performing the scan.

3D Imaging Emits Less Radiation

Dental cone beam CT machines emit less radiation than traditional CT scans & traditional film x-rays, so your exposure is brief & minimal. You can be draped with a lead vest if desired. Pregnant women should inform the dentist of their situation before getting a 3-D x-ray or x-rays of any kind.

3D Dental Imaging Is Instantaneous

The 3-D x-ray scanner creates a 3-D digital image instantaneously, meaning there’s no waiting for film to develop. The fact that the images are digital also makes it very easy to share your scans with any specialist dentists who may be involved in your care, such as an orthodontist or a prosthodontist. We’re proud to offer this advanced technology because it allows us to provide every patient with more accurate, efficient & successful dental care.

Meet Your Murrieta Dentist

Daniel B. Pulsipher, DDS – Daniel B. Pulsipher, DDS, is a graduate of the University of Loma Linda School of Dentistry. He has also received extensive training in cosmetic dentistry, rotary endodontics and removable prosthodontics (dentures). Dr. Pulsipher is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of General Dentistry, California Dental Association, International Association for Orthodontics & the Tri-County Dental Society.

Recognition & Certifications

5-Star Murrieta Dental Services

We make it fun for children to visit their dentist in Murrieta.

Get relief from dental anxiety for comfortable dental procedures.

Straighten teeth with a wide-range of options from Invisalign to traditional braces.

Reshape your gum line with gum contouring to fix gummy smiles and small teeth.

Replace a missing tooth, several teeth, or an entire arch of teeth with All-on-4 dental implants.

Diagnotics and solutions for tooth and gum infections including root canals and gum disease treatment. 

At Springs Dental, we have convenient hours that won’t make you miss work or school.

Visit Springs Dental

Dentist Murrieta, CA

We are located in the Murrieta Springs Professional Park off Murrieta Hot Springs Road.

Hours

Mon. – Thur. 8AM–6PM
Friday 8AM–5PM
Sat & Sun. Closed

~ Daily lunch break 12 Noon–1pm

5-Star Google Reviews

Insurance & Financing

Insurance

We love your insurance and respect your budget and busy schedule. There are little to no out-of-pocket costs for most insured patients on cleanings, exams and x-rays.

Financing

0% financing is available on approved credit. While most insured families receive the majority of preventive services for FREE, we offer many different payment options, including CareCredit, so uninsured patients can still receive the dental care they need in a manner that fits their budget.

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Frequently asked questions

How long do dentist appointments take?

Routine dental appointments, like teeth cleanings and dental checkups, take 45 minutes to an hour. Procedures like fillings, crowns, extractions, and dental implants can take up to two hours, depending on the complexity.

Come into Springs Dental for a same-day emergency dentist in Murrieta when you’re experiencing:

  • Severe tooth pain that doesn’t go away

  • A broken, chipped, or knocked-out tooth

  • Swelling in the gums, face, or jaw

  • Bleeding that won’t stop after a dental injury

  • A lost filling, crown, or dental appliance causing pain or sensitivity

  • Signs of infection, like a bad taste in your mouth, fever, or pus

If you’re ever unsure, call us and we will guide you on what to do next.

Dental implants can last a lifetime with good oral hygiene and regular dental checkups. A dental implant has three parts: the titanium post, the abutment, and the crown. While the post is typically permanent, the crown may need replacement after 10–15 years due to normal wear.

Invisalign treatment takes between 6 and 18 months, depending on the complexity of your case. Mild tooth alignment issues take 6 to 12 months, while more advanced corrections can take over a year.

Yes, we have several options for payment plans and offer CareCredit so you never have to delay getting the dental treatment that you need.

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