CBCT scans: a 3D view to help plan treatment
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) gives a three-dimensional view of the teeth and jaws that can help with planning some treatments. We take a scan only where the information is likely to change what we recommend.
What a CBCT scan is
A cone beam CT scan is a type of dental X-ray. The scanner rotates around your head and takes a series of images, which are then reconstructed into a three-dimensional view of the teeth, jaws and surrounding structures.
The scan itself is quick. You stay still while the scanner moves around you, and we explain what is involved beforehand.
It shows bone and teeth in detail. It is not designed to assess soft tissues, and it is one part of an examination rather than a substitute for one.
Why it matters
A conventional X-ray shows a three-dimensional area in two dimensions. A CBCT scan can give a more detailed view of bone volume, nerve position, sinus anatomy and root structure, although, like any scan, it has limits.
- Assessing bone volume and nerve position when planning dental implants
- Assessing complex or failing root canals
- Locating impacted wisdom teeth before removal
- Investigating jaw joint and sinus concerns
- Assessing findings that a conventional X-ray cannot show in three dimensions
Radiation and safety
All X-ray imaging involves a radiation dose. A dental cone beam scan generally involves a lower dose than a medical CT scan of the same region, and a higher dose than a conventional dental X-ray. We limit the scan to the area needed, take one only where the information is likely to change what we recommend, and explain the reasons before we do.
Scanning here, not elsewhere
Because the scanner is in our Red Hill practice, a scan can often be taken, reviewed with you on screen and used for planning within the same visit. Where a scan is better taken elsewhere, or reported by a specialist, we will arrange that.
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Questions about a scan?
Call us with any questions. Whether a 3D scan would help is decided after an examination, and we'll explain what it would show.
Call 03 5989 2144