The Role of Digital X-Rays in Diagnosing Bite and Growth Issues
At Pure Facial Development in Ankeny, Dr. Erika Peddicord uses advanced digital x-ray technology, including 3D imaging, to evaluate how a child’s teeth, jaws, and facial structures are developing.
While many people think of x-rays only as a tool for finding cavities, our 3D digital system provides a far more complete picture. It captures not just flat images but also detailed three-dimensional scans of the jaws and airway, offering an unmatched level of precision for diagnosis and treatment planning. For children showing early signs of crowded teeth, open bites, or breathing challenges, 3D x-rays reveal the full scope of what is happening beneath the surface.
Accurate Diagnosis with 3D Digital Imaging
Misaligned bites and underdeveloped jaws can have lifelong consequences if left unaddressed. Narrow dental arches, recessed jaws, and airway restrictions often contribute to sleep issues, teeth grinding, and poor facial balance. These conditions are not always visible during a routine exam, but 3D x-rays provide a full-volume view of the skeletal and airway structures that shape a child’s growth.
Dr. Peddicord relies on these scans to measure jaw position, identify airway blockages, and evaluate facial symmetry from multiple angles. This depth of information is critical in determining whether a child would benefit from orthotropic therapy, which focuses on guiding forward growth rather than relying on extractions or surgery. By combining 3D imaging with a clinical exam, Dr. Peddicord can make earlier, more accurate diagnoses that lead to better long-term outcomes.
Convenience and Comfort for Families
Pure Facial Development has invested in a state-of-the-art 3D digital x-ray system that delivers clear, high-resolution images in seconds. The process is quick and comfortable, making it easy to capture the information needed without long or complicated appointments.
Parents also benefit from the clarity of 3D imaging. Instead of only seeing flat images, families can view three-dimensional scans that clearly highlight jaw alignment, airway space, and tooth positioning. This allows Dr. Peddicord to explain findings in a way that is easy to understand, helping families feel more confident about their child’s treatment plan and progress.
Better Outcomes Through Precise Treatment
The true value of 3D digital x-rays is their impact on results. By providing a complete view of the face and jaws, this technology allows Dr. Peddicord to design and adjust treatment with precision. Orthotropic therapy becomes more predictable because every change in jaw position, airway shape, and tooth alignment can be tracked over time with measurable accuracy.
Families can see the difference in these 3D scans as treatment unfolds, reinforcing the importance of cooperation and consistency. Dr. Peddicord is committed to investing in this technology because it allows her to deliver care that is both precise and personalized. She believes that when diagnosis is guided by advanced 3D imaging, children experience better outcomes in both appearance and overall health.
At Pure Facial Development, 3D digital x-rays are more than an upgrade in technology. They are a foundation for accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and a healthier future for every child.
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