CBCT Cone Beam Imaging

CBCT (Cone Beam Imaging)

At Root Dental, Dr. Margaret Grothe combines holistic dentistry with the latest dental technology to deliver the best possible dental care for every patient who walks into our office. One of the most advanced tools at our office is our CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scanner.  

With CBCT radiographs, Dr. Grothe can complete more thorough diagnosis than with 2D x-rays alone. This is particularly important for individuals with history of root canaled teeth.

Understanding CBCT And How It Works

CBCT stands for “Cone Beam Computed Tomography” and is sometimes also referred to as “Cone Beam Imaging.” CBCT is a special type of X-ray that’s designed to take a 3D scan of your entire head.

CBCT scanners work by using an X-ray scanner that rotates around your head. As the scanner spins and rotates, it takes up to 600 distinct cone-shaped images of your mouth, jaw, and face. Then, these are uploaded into a special computer program that “stitches” them together.  

The result is a 3D image of your teeth, jaw, and sinuses. This 3D images can be used for more through diagnosis of dental infections, bone pathology, and may even give insight into your sinuses and carotid artery!

What To Expect from A CBCT Scan

CBCT scanning technology is highly complex, but the process for getting a CBCT scan at Root Dental is very simple, fast, and non-invasive.  

• Adjusting the machine – One of our team members will take you to the CBCT scanner and adjust it to the proper position. You’ll be able to either sit or stand depending on your height and your comfort preferences. Then, you will need to bite down on a small bite block in the center of the scanner. This helps align your head properly during the scan.

• CBCT scanning – Once everything’s ready, one of our team members will begin the scan. You’ll hear some noise and see the CBCT scanner swiveling around your head as it takes 600+ images of your mouth. It’s important to stay as still as possible during this time. It takes only 20-30 seconds to finish a CBCT scan.

• Reviewing your results – That’s it! Once you’re done, you can get up and head back to your treatment room. Special software will stitch the CBCT images together into a 3D image and send it to the computer, where you and Dr. Grothe can review the results.

When Would I Need Cone Beam Imaging?

Initial patient assessment

We may sometimes recommend that patients in our office get a CBCT, especially if they have history of root canals or multiple restorations like fillings, crowns, dental bridges, or implants. A CBCT scan allows Dr. Grothe to better assess questionable teeth than 2D imaging would allow.

Complex oral health issues

In some cases, a traditional X-ray may not be enough to identify or diagnose a complicated oral health issue, such as an impacted wisdom tooth or a root canal treated tooth... they allow Dr. Grothe to see the tooth in question from every angle. With a 2D image, only one angle is visible and pathology and nervous system structure can be easily missed.

Preparing for surgery

CBCT is especially useful for preparing for oral surgery, such as dental implants. With a CBCT scan, Dr. Grothe will be able to get a 3D view of your jaw, teeth, and even structures like nerves and blood vessels, in some cases. This allows her to plan your oral surgery accordingly and ensure that everything goes smoothly!

Answering FAQS About CBCT

Are CBCT scans safe?

Yes. While CBCT scans do involve more exposure to radiation than traditional 2D X-rays, they are completely safe. Also, CBCT scans are needed much less often than traditional digital X-rays. Usually, Dr. Grothe will only need to take a CBCT scan to diagnose a specific oral health issue, plan for surgery, or every 5 years.

How should I prepare for my scan?

You will need to take off anything metal from your head and neck, such as hairpins, glasses, earrings, necklaces, and hearing aids. Beyond this, no special preparation is necessary for your CBCT scan. Our dental team will walk you through the entire process!

When will I see my CBCT results?

Immediately! We use digital technology that stitches your images together in real-time, so it only takes a few minutes for your scan to be completed. Dr. Grothe can begin reviewing your results with you right away. In many cases, Dr. Grothe may send your scan to a radiologist for more thorough diagnosis. In which case, the turnaround time is usually a few days to a week.