"My wife and I are writing to express our sincere gratitude for the exceptional care provided to our kitten, Kisa. We were referred to Missoula Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery for imaging with their Cone Beam CT after Kisa developed some minor swelling and complications following her sinus trephination surgery. Dr. Block's direct and real-time communication with Kisa's surgical care team was invaluable. By reviewing the imaging with them immediately, she ensured Kisa was healing correctly despite the minor complications and confirmed that no further care was necessary while Kisa was anesthetized. Dr. Block and her team provided amazing care not only for Kisa but also for her nervous parents. We look forward to bringing Kisa back to Missoula Veterinary Dentistry and Oral Surgery for her first dental cleaning when she is due."
Kisa Cooper
Our Missoula pet dental team is proud to offer the most advanced imaging technology available in veterinary dentistry: Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). Not many animal hospitals offer this technology, especially in Western Montana, but this specialized tool is critical for our work. CBCT gives us a detailed, three-dimensional view of your pet’s teeth, jawbones, and surrounding structures, helping us diagnose problems earlier, treat them more precisely, and deliver the safest, most effective care possible.
If you have questions about your pet’s dental imaging or want to learn more about how CBCT may benefit them, please call us today.
What is Cone Beam CT?
CBCT is a cutting-edge imaging system that produces high-resolution, 3D images of your pet’s mouth, teeth, jaw, and sinuses. Unlike traditional 2D dental X-rays, which capture only flat images, CBCT rotates around your pet’s head to create a complete three-dimensional map of their oral structures.
This advanced view allows our Board Certified Veterinary Dentists® to identify even the smallest fractures, hidden infections, or changes in bone density that standard radiographs might miss. This results in a more accurate diagnosis and a better-informed treatment plan for your pet’s dental or oral condition.
How Cone Beam CT Improves Care for Dogs & Cats
CBCT is one of the most valuable tools in modern veterinary dentistry because of the clarity, precision, and safety it provides. Here’s how it benefits our patients every day:
Sharper Diagnostics, Earlier Answers
CBCT allows our veterinarians to see below the surface with remarkable detail, revealing issues like root fractures, bone loss, tooth resorption, and jaw fractures that 2D X-rays can’t always capture. This level of accuracy helps us detect problems early, often before your pet shows visible signs of pain.
Safer, Low-Radiation Imaging
A single CBCT scan captures the full 3D view in one pass, significantly reducing radiation exposure compared to multiple 2D images. This makes it safer for both our patients and our veterinary team while providing a complete, accurate picture the first time.
More Precise Treatment Planning
Detailed 3D imaging gives our Board Certified Veterinary Dentists® an unparalleled advantage when planning procedures such as extractions, jaw fracture repair, or oral surgery. CBCT also guides us when placing implants, evaluating tumors, or designing custom dental prosthetics, ensuring every treatment is as safe, effective, and minimally invasive as possible.
Better Healing and Outcomes
When we can visualize every angle of your pet’s condition, we can tailor our surgical approach and post-operative care more precisely. That means fewer surprises during treatment, shorter anesthesia time, and a faster, smoother recovery for your pet.
Experience the Highest Standard of Care
At Missoula Veterinary Dentistry & Oral Surgery, we’re committed to making the very best technology accessible to every pet we treat. Our investment in Cone Beam CT allows us to deliver safer anesthesia, faster diagnoses, and more confident care for even the most complex dental and oral conditions.
Call us today to schedule a consultation or learn more about how Cone Beam CT imaging can help your pet receive the most advanced dental care available.
