CBCT stands for cone beam computed tomography.
It is a type of dental imaging that creates three-dimensional views of the teeth, jaws and surrounding structures.
Dentists may use CBCT when two-dimensional X-rays do not provide enough information for a particular treatment decision.
What does a CBCT show?
A CBCT scan can show structures from different angles and in three dimensions.
Depending on the area scanned, it may help a dentist assess:
- jawbone height and width
- the position of teeth and roots
- the relationship between teeth and nearby anatomical structures
- impacted teeth
- areas of bone loss
- the position of the maxillary sinuses
- the course of important nerve canals
- the location and angulation of existing implants
The dentist interprets the scan together with your examination and other clinical information.
Why is CBCT used for dental implants?
Implant placement requires an understanding of the available bone and nearby anatomy.
A CBCT may help the implant dentist assess:
- whether there appears to be enough bone
- the shape of the proposed implant site
- the location of important anatomical structures
- whether grafting may need to be considered
- possible implant position and angulation
It does not by itself determine whether someone is suitable for implants.
Is a CBCT the same as a panoramic X-ray?
No.
A panoramic dental X-ray, often called an OPG, produces a broad two-dimensional image of the jaws and teeth.
CBCT produces three-dimensional data that can be viewed as multiple slices and reconstructed views.
Each has different uses. A dentist should select imaging according to the clinical question that needs to be answered.
Does every implant patient need a CBCT?
Not automatically.
The need for CBCT depends on the proposed treatment, the information already available and the dentist's clinical judgement.
Because CBCT uses ionising radiation, it should be justified by a clinical reason rather than performed simply as a routine extra.
What happens during the scan?
The exact equipment varies.
Usually you are positioned standing or sitting while the scanner moves around your head. You need to stay still during the exposure.
The scan itself is generally quick.
The clinic may ask you to remove glasses, jewellery, removable dental appliances or other metal objects around the head and neck.
Is CBCT painful?
No. The imaging process itself does not involve instruments entering the mouth or surgery.
You simply need to remain still while the scan is taken.
Does CBCT involve radiation?
Yes.
CBCT uses X-rays and therefore involves ionising radiation.
The radiation dose varies depending on the machine, the field of view and the scan settings.
Dentists should use imaging only when clinically justified and should keep exposure as low as reasonably practicable while still obtaining the information needed.
Why can CBCT change an initial treatment plan?
A clinic may give a provisional plan using photographs, an OPG or other information before you attend.
A later CBCT can reveal details that were not visible clearly on two-dimensional images.
For example, it may change the assessment of bone volume, implant position, nearby anatomy or the possible need for additional procedures.
That is why an initial remote quote should not always be treated as a guaranteed final treatment plan.
Should CBCT be included in an implant package price?
There is no universal rule.
Some clinics include one or more scans within a package. Others charge separately.
When comparing quotes, ask:
- whether CBCT is included
- how many scans are included
- whether repeat imaging is charged separately
- whether the price covers radiology reporting where applicable
If the quote does not say, mark it as not stated rather than assuming it is included.
In simple terms
A CBCT is a three-dimensional dental scan that can give the treating dentist more detailed information about teeth, bone and surrounding anatomy than a standard two-dimensional X-ray.
It is a diagnostic tool, not a treatment on its own.