What is a 3D CT (CBCT) Scan Used For?
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) creates detailed 3D images of your teeth, jawbones, and the bony structures of your jaw joints (TMJs). It helps identify structural abnormalities and bone changes associated with arthritis that may contribute to your symptoms. When clinically appropriate, it can also provide a baseline for future comparison.
At our office, a CBCT scan is included in the initial consultation fee to support an accurate diagnosis when clinically indicated.
CBCT can show the size and shape of the airway within the scanned area, but it does not measure breathing function or diagnose obstructive sleep apnea on its own.
Dental CBCT generally involves less radiation than conventional medical CT, although exposure varies depending on the scan area, equipment, and settings. The scan is selected to obtain the information needed while keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable.
What Conditions Does a 3D CT (CBCT) Help Diagnose?
With a CBCT, The physicians can diagnose or see conditions such as:
See any degenerative/ arthritic changes with your jaw joint/ jaw bone/ TMJ
Sinus issues and conditions
Airway capacity can be viewed.
Fractures
Infections
Cysts
Fibro-osseous lesions which means the normal bone is replaced by fibrous tissue
Osteomyelitis which is inflection or inflammation of the bone marrow
Sagittal View of the Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ)
Axial View of the Maxillary Sinuses
Airway Analysis
Take a Look at Our 3D CT Machine
How long does a CBCT scan take?
It takes about 10 to 40 seconds to take the scan depending on the facility and their machine. For our clinic, we use the latest technology which uses green low-dose technology which takes between 9 - 16 seconds which also reduces the amount of radiation used.