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Ever wonder why third molars are called “wisdom” teeth? These teeth usually erupt at 17–21 years of age, a time when young adults are gaining the wisdom that they need for their adult years.

And why do so many people need to have third molars extracted? We can thank evolution and science. During certain eras in the evolution of man (and woman), most humans’ jaws could accommodate these teeth, but now, wisdom teeth are often extracted since  overall jaw size of modern man has become smaller. Plus, contemporary dental care helps people to retain healthier teeth for a longer time, so we now experience less permanent tooth loss, and with that, less available spaces to accommodate potentially forward-drifting third molars. Simply put, we’re keeping more of our teeth longer—the trade-off may be that we can’t hold on to our third molars.

Even though we’ve gained a healthier dentition overall, no one is happy about the idea of having their wisdom teeth removed. But there are valid reasons why these molars need to come out—and there are ways to make the process less complicated and more successful.

Here’s a great article by Oral Surgeon Dr. Bruce Cohen which answers many questions that patients typically pose to their dentists. It covers many aspects of the “why and how“ of the third molar removal and the technology, including CBCT scanning, that gives doctors an exact look in a patient’s anatomy so there are no surprises during surgery. 

For more information on 3D cone beam systems, and other dental imaging solutions, visit the Gendex website.

Figure 2: Dr. Couch and his GXDP-700 S Pan/3D unit

We sat down with Dr. Couch, and he was extremely kind to share his story with us. Here is a series of questions we asked: 

Why did you choose the Gendex brand?

All other pieces of equipment in my office were already in digital format. My old panoramic machine, a Gendex Panelipse®, was a trusted workhorse. Although it was still in working condition, I wanted to switch from a traditional film unit to a digital format. I was curious about advancements in imaging technology offered by modern digital panoramic x-ray machines. It offered reduced radiation with flexibility for different projections. The model that I chose had a 3D component, increasing its value to my patients and practice even more.

Why did you choose to add a Gendex GXDP-700 to your practice?

At first, my intention was to use the pan-3D system to help with implant placement.  However, after realizing how advantageous it is to view my patient’s anatomy in three dimensions, I no longer felt comfortable using my older film pans for implant cases because I didn’t feel that I was obtaining the quality diagnostic information necessary for accurate diagnosis and planning.

Figure 3: Implant and Restoration plan with GXDP-700 3D scan and InVivo 5 Software

How has your GXDP-700 helped you to expand your practice?

My new pan-3D unit gives me confidence, predictable diagnostics, and results in better treatment. With the 3D option, I can capture a volume of information that I need to confidently place implants, to appropriately and accurately prepare for extractions, to perform root evaluations, solve “mystery endo” cases, and to obtain anatomical documentation for collaboration between me and specialists.

Figure 4: Nerve Mapping, Root Investigations using GXDP-700 Cone Beam scans

What other digital equipment do you already use?

I already have digital intraoral x-ray sensors, digital cameras, and CAD/CAM digital impressions - the E4D™ system.

How does having a digital system improve communication with your referring colleagues?

Consulting doctors are also very grateful to have such detailed information. With traditional film x-ray, the quality is not consistent from office to office. When I electronically send a pan or scan, I know that the specialist and I are both seeing the same quality image. 

Does having a digital system impact patients?

Yes. Patients are so familiar with technology in every aspect of their lives, from phones to computers, and they are used to viewing information on the computer screen.  When I used my film pan, explaining an implant case or other conditions seemed to confuse or even intimidate some patients. Now, I can zoom in on the crisp 2D digital pan image or 3D scans on my large monitor, point out even the smallest details, and in the case of 3D scans, slice and rotate the images to gain the right perspective for education. They appreciate that I have invested in the tools to provide them with individualized treatment.

If the next path forward in upgrading your Panelispe x-ray machine is a feature-rich cone beam unit like the GXDP-700, or simply a rock-solid digital panoramic with TMJ and bitewing capabilities like the GXDP-300 Digital Panoramic, be assured that Gendex offers multiple options in digital panoramic x-ray technology to fit your clinical needs and budget. 

To learn more about the GXDP-700 Pan/Ceph/3D x-ray unit, you can download the product brochure.

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