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Why Do Dentists Recommend CBCT Scans?

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A dentist explains the details of their patient's dental x-rays.

Dental anxiety is a common experience marked by feelings of fear, stress, or apprehension towards dental visits, to such an extent that patients will put off their dental appointments, directly impacting their oral health. 

Learning how modern dental tools and procedures work can help alleviate these concerns. 

CBCT scans are a valuable tool in dental diagnostics and treatments. They provide a comprehensive 3D image of oral structures to capture a snapshot of a patient’s oral health status.

This valuable tool isn’t a routine procedure for every dental visit. These scans are used in specific circumstances where a detailed assessment of the oral cavity is necessary, which isn’t typically the case during a routine exam or dental cleaning.

Dentists recommend CBCT scans when diagnosing or treating oral health concerns like:

  • Planning dental implants
  • Evaluating impacted teeth
  • Preparing for complex root canals
  • Assessing pathologies or abnormalities
  • Planning orthodontic treatments
  • Providing accurate measurements of your jaw
  • Locating the origin of any pain

All About CBCT Scans

Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans sound like a mouthful, but, it’s an advanced dental imaging tool that provides dentists with a comprehensive 3D view of your teeth, mouth, jaw, and nasal cavity.  

Traditional dental X-rays offer a flat, 2D image of your oral health status. CBCT scans provide a 360-degree view, using 150-200 captured images from different angles, to reconstruct a 3D image of your oral health status that traditional scans may miss. 

The uniqueness of CBCT scans lies in their ability to capture intricate details.

With a single scan, dentists can observe bone structure, dental tissues, and nerve pathways. This level of detail is invaluable, especially for diagnosing complex conditions or planning complex procedures. 

This tool aids in diagnosing concerns with jaw alignment, evaluating tooth orientation and arrangement, and identifying abnormalities or fractures in your oral structure. Their comprehensive view helps plan dental implants, root canals, and other advanced dental procedures, allowing for more effective treatment plans.   

Undergoing a CBCT scan is neither complicated nor risky. It’s a straightforward procedure involving minimal discomfort due to its non-invasive nature. During the scan, the patient stands or sits while the machine rotates around their head, capturing numerous images. It’s quick, gentle, and requires no special preparation beforehand. 

As with any procedure or diagnostic imaging tool, they are not without risk. CBCT scans carry a small risk of radiation exposure. However, this instrument exposes patients to a relatively low dose, much less than a conventional CT scan.

Advances in CBCT technology have continued to reduce these levels, prioritizing patient safety while delivering detailed diagnostic information. Therefore, with proper usage, CBCT scans offer safe insight into dental health status. 

 A dentist explains why undergoing CBCT scans is necessary for developing their patient's treatment plan.

When Do We Use CBCT Scans?

CBCT scans are not routine procedures for every dental visit. These scans are tailored to specific circumstances where a detailed assessment of the oral cavity is necessary, which isn’t typically the case during a routine exam or dental cleaning. 

These scans play a key role in: 

  • Planning dental implants
  • Evaluating impacted teeth
  • Preparing for complex root canals
  • Assessing pathologies or abnormalities
  • Planning orthodontic treatments
  • Providing accurate measurements of your jaw
  • Locating the origin of any pain

A detailed snapshot of a patient’s oral health means that dentists recommend these scans when they need to gather more information to confirm a diagnosis or develop a specific treatment plan. 

Some patients may feel tempted to skip their CBCT scan and continue with their appointment. But, it’s vital to understand that these images allow for an accurate diagnosis of dental concerns and help establish a treatment plan tailored to a patient’s needs. 

Opting out might mean missing out on crucial information that could impact your overall oral health.

What to Expect During Your CBCT Scan

Navigating a CBCT scan appointment can be straightforward and stress-free when you know what to expect. 

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you feel prepared and informed as you approach your appointment: 

  • Consultation: First, your dentist will discuss the reason for the CBCT scan based on your specific dental condition. They will provide instructions on preparation, which typically include removing metal objects like jewelry or glasses that could interfere with the accuracy of the scan. 
  • Preparation: The technician will guide you to remove any remaining metal accessories and you’ll be given a protective apron to wear during the scan. It’s similar to that used during standard X-rays, to safeguard against radiation exposure.
  • Positioning: You’ll be taken to the CBCT machine. The technician will assist you in positioning your head correctly, either seated or standing, and you’ll be asked to stay very still during the scan for ideal image results. 
  • Scanning process: Once positioned correctly, the CBCT machine will rotate around your head. This part of the process typically lasts under a minute. The scan is non-invasive and relatively gentle. Many patients barely notice it happening.
  • Image processing: The images captured will be quickly processed into a 3D model. This gives your dentist a comprehensive view to aid in diagnosis or treatment planning.
  • Consultation and results: You will return to the dentist’s office to discuss the findings from the scan. Your dentist will explain the results, detail any concerns, and discuss potential next steps or treatment plans.
  • Follow-up: Depending on the results, your dentist may schedule further treatments or appointments to address specific dental needs highlighted by the scan.

Connect With Us

CBCT scans offer patients a detailed, comprehensive view of their oral health status. They are a valuable tool in dental care, allowing dentists to make informed decisions about their patients’ dental care, and helping to tailor treatment to the unique needs of every individual.  

Being informed about the specifics of dental care can help ease any uncertainty about your visit. Connect with our team at Palermo Village Dental to learn more about the role of CBCT scans in our approach to dental care. 

Written by Dr. Christopher Blair

Dr. Christopher Blair completed his Doctor of Dental Surgery Degree at the University of Toronto. He is an avid cyclist and has often combined his passion for cycling with charitable endeavours. Most notably, Dr. Blair is passionate about his efforts to raise funds to support kids living with cancer and who are cancer survivors. Through his participation in Tour for Kids, Dr. Blair has raised thousands of dollars to support Camp Trillium, Camp Quality, and Camp Oochegeas, 3 camps in the Toronto area that support kids living with cancer.

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