3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)
3D cone beam images provide comprehensive, accurate, and detailed visuals for thorough analysis of each case
Our Scanning System
We provide convenient online access to completed examinations, as well as services that deliver low-dose cone beam CT scanning for patients. Unlike other imaging centres, CT Dent specialises exclusively in dental cone beam CT (CBCT), which means we are able to maintain the highest professional standards in this field, and our staff have an excellent command of this specialist discipline.
Our Scanning System
We provide convenient online access to completed examinations, as well as services that deliver low-dose cone beam CT scanning for patients. Unlike other imaging centres, CT Dent specialises exclusively in dental cone beam CT (CBCT), which means we are able to maintain the highest professional standards in this field, and our staff have an excellent command of this specialist discipline.
What is CBCT scanning?
Cone beam CT provides high-resolution volumetric images representing complete three-dimensional views of critical anatomy for detailed bone and tooth orientation analysis. Cone beam CT delivers accurate imaging data comparable to medical CT, but with a significantly lower radiation dose and patient positioning in a chair (rather than a tunnel), as well as faster scanning.
Cone beam CT differs from standard dental X-rays, which focus on a small area to produce flat 2D images. 3D cone beam images provide more comprehensive, accurate, and detailed visuals, enabling you to analyse each case more precisely and with less radiation than conventional medical CT. 3D cone beam images can be copied and are always retained in case they are needed in the future.
This enables dentists to significantly improve patient care in a variety of ways.
Why dental CT scanning truly matters
A dental CT image opens your eyes to the third dimension. It is easy to understand and allows you to see critical anatomy that was previously impossible to visualise using traditional scanning methods. This further reinforces the patient’s confidence that they are in safe hands, knowing they are being cared for with the latest technology.
Key applications of CT imaging
Dental implants: 3D CT scanning enables surgeons and restorative dentists to optimally plan and place dental implants. Its use and benefits are evident throughout the entire care pathway — from diagnosis to treatment and post-operative monitoring.
Orthodontics: Enhances orthodontic diagnosis and treatment by providing multiple projection perspectives required for precise assessment of dental relationships and ongoing, objective monitoring of anatomical interpretation.
Impactions: CT provides accurate 3D images of impacted wisdom teeth within the alveolar bone, in proximity to adjacent teeth and vital structures such as the nerve canal, maxillary sinus wall, and cortical walls.
Analysis: CT identifies and assesses problems by precisely measuring bone and jaw deformities, evaluating bone damage and jaw changes, and revealing other pathologies such as cysts, tumours, and disease before they become serious.
Airway assessment: 3D data enables improved airway evaluation and may lead to a revision of the treatment plan where a patient has a compromised airway at risk of collapse.
TMJ: 3D images allow clinicians to visualise critical structures for TMJ analysis and diagnosis. Condyles, bone morphology, joint spaces, and function are clearly visible.
Why is a panoramic X-ray insufficient?
Cone beam images provide a clear and precise view of the jaws. Panoramic images, unlike cone beam, are magnified and distorted. It can be argued that using panoramic images for measurements is unreliable. Another key difference is that CT images offer multiple viewing options (cross-sectional, axial, coronal, sagittal, etc.), whereas panoramic X-rays provide only a single view in which all structures between the X-ray tube and image detector overlap one another. With CT images, individual structures can be separated from one another.
Dental CT imaging as a “marketing tool”?
Indeed! CT scanning can also serve as a valuable “marketing tool”, allowing you to demonstrate the treatment plan to your patient. We provide CT scanning software free of charge with every CT scan. This software gives you the ability to view, plan, measure, manipulate, print reports, create copies (for colleagues/patients), and most importantly, to show the current treatment and assessment to your patients on a computer screen with all the images and 3D views. The patient will be able to understand the entire procedure and will be impressed by the technology and your detailed assessment.