Diagnostic Imaging

Veterinary diagnostic imaging has dramatically enhanced the speed and accuracy to diagnose oral diseases and dental injuries in both cats and dogs. That’s why Veterinary Dentistry Specialists (VDS) has invested in today’s most advanced imaging equipment, similar to those found in human dental practices.

At each VDS practice, we offer digital radiographs (x-rays) and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)
for highly accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Digital X-Rays: Our experienced veterinary teams take digital x-rays of a dog or cat’s entire mouth during exams and cleanings to get an accurate assessment of their overall oral health. One of our board-certified veterinary dentists then evaluates the x-rays and determines the proper diagnosis, and treatment plan if possible. Depending on the results, and injury or illness, additional and more advanced diagnostics might be recommended.

Cone-beam CT: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an imaging modality that is a variation of traditional computed tomography (CT) systems. The CBCT system used by board-certified veterinary dentists and oral surgeons rotate around the pet patient’s head, capturing images using a cone-shaped x-ray beam. These images are used to reconstruct a three-dimensional (3D) image of the teeth, oral and maxillofacial region (skull, jaw), as well as the nasal sinuses, ear canals, and cervical spine (neck).

Our board-certified veterinary dentistry specialists use the CBCT for various clinical applications, including evaluating oral tumors, cleft palates, fractured jaws, foreign bodies, and other traumas. CBCT images provide three-dimensional (3-D) information rather than the two-dimensional (2-D) information provided by a conventional x-ray image. This is the most advanced and non-invasive way to diagnose and offer treatment options for advanced oral diseases and injuries.