Cone Beam Computerized Tomography (CBCT)

What Is A CBCT Scan?

Dental Cone Beam Tomography [Dental CBCT] is a specialized type of x-ray that provides more information than conventional dental or facial x-rays. This computerized scan uses advanced technology to generate three-dimensional[3-D] images. We, at Patterson Village Dentistry, have recently upgraded our imaging technology to enable the most accurate diagnosis and implementation of cutting edging treatment for common dental problems. The CS-8100 3D represents the most sophisticated dental scanning technology available.

What are the benefits of a Dental CBCT scan?

The benefits of a Dental CBCT scan are that it:

• Provides 3-D images of dental structures, soft tissues, nerve paths and bone which are considerably more detailed than conventional two-dimensional dental x-rays.
• Allows for more precise diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Is simple and comfortable to take and can diagnostically image both bone and soft tissue simultaneously.

What are the common uses of a Dental CBCT scan?

Dental CBCT scans are commonly used to:

• Evaluate the position of teeth, bone structure, jaw joints and the airway.
• Aid in:

• Diagnosis of fractured teeth
• Accurate placement of implants
• Surgical planning for the removal of impacted wisdom teeth
• 3-D orthodontic evaluation
• Complex root canal diagnosis and treatment

What are the risks of a Dental CBCT scan?

Although relatively low, Dental CBCT scans cause some exposure to radiation; the amount of exposure is approximately the same as taking a five-hour international plane flight. CBCT scans use a much lower radiation dose than medical CT Scans. While a medical CT scan of the jaw may expose a patient to a radiation dose equivalent to 179-578 days of background radiation—that is, the amount of radiation you are exposed to in your daily life—a CBCT scan of the same area is comparable to only 6-8 days of background radiation. Due to radiation exposure, scans are not generally recommended for pregnant women and should be used cautiously in the pre-orthodontic evaluation of children.

How does a Dental CBCT scanning procedure work?

During the scan, a motorized arm rotates 360-degrees around your head while capturing multiple images from different angles that are then reconstructed to create a single 3-D image.

Who interprets the results of a Dental CBCT scan?

The interpretation of a Dental CBCT scan may be done by your dentist, dental specialist or radiologist.