What is CBCT?

Cone Beam Computed Tomography is an advanced imaging technology in dentistry that produces clear, three-dimensional images of teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways and bones in a single scan. This technology has revolutionised dental and maxillofacial imaging, providing detailed views that are essential for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Unlike traditional two-dimensional X-rays, CBCT provides 3D images that provide a more comprehensive understanding of the patient’s anatomy, making it essential for a variety of dental procedures.

Why is CBCT good?

CBCT technology is not just a step forward in dental imaging, it is a leap into the future of dental care. With its 3D imaging capabilities, CBCT provides a comprehensive view of dental anatomy, allowing us to accurately diagnose conditions and confidently plan treatments.

When is a CBCT needed?

A CBCT is needed whenever your treating dentist requests it. Some priority areas when you should definitely have a 3D scan are:

• Implant planning: accuracy is key to successful dental implants. CBCT imaging allows us to assess bone quality and density, ensuring optimal implant placement.
• In orthodontics: It is essential to understand the exact position of each tooth and bone structure. CBCT helps in orthodontic planning with detailed 3D images.
• In root canal treatment: root canal treatment requires precise navigation. CBCT allows us to see the intricate details of root structures, making procedures safer and more efficient.
• For oral surgery: from wisdom teeth extractions to corrective jaw surgeries, CBCT imaging provides guidance that reduces risk and improves outcomes.
• For TMI analysis: Understanding the complexity of the temporomandibular joint (TMI) is key to the management of TMI disorders. A CBCT provides clear images of the joint and surrounding structures, also aiding accurate diagnosis and treatment.

How is a CBCT scan performed?

It is a relatively simple and quick process that uses low-dose radiation to produce a three-dimensional image of the patient’s head and mouth. The process of the test:

• Once you are escorted into the X-ray room, the dental assistant will ask you to remove any metal objects (e.g. watch, earrings, nose ring, mouth piercing, glasses) that may affect the quality of the image.
• You will then need to get into the correct position, where it is very important to hold your head correctly, this can be helped by using restraints such as a chin rest to minimise movement during the shot.
• The X-ray source of the CBCT machine and the detector rotate together around the patient’s head as the machine takes hundreds of individual images (or ‘slices’). This process usually takes less than a minute.
• It is important to remain still during the scan to ensure that the images are sharp and accurate.
• The images taken by the device are automatically stitched together, creating a 3D image that the dentist examines in detail.

In which cases can CBCT not be performed?

Although a CBCT scan is generally safe and uses a low radiation dose, there are certain situations and conditions where it is not recommended or should be considered with caution:

• Pregnancy: especially in the first trimester when the fetus is very sensitive to external agents, including ionizing radiation. Although CBCT uses low levels of radiation, any medical imaging that uses ionizing radiation should generally be avoided during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary and recommended by a doctor.
• Young developing body: children and adolescents are still developing, which may mean increased sensitivity to any form of radiation. At this stage of growth, the cells of the body are dividing rapidly, which may make them more vulnerable to genetic changes caused by radiation.
• Previous exposure to radiation: Patients who have been exposed to significant amounts of ionising radiation in the past (for example, from other types of CT scans or cancer treatments) should be carefully considered to minimise any accumulated radiation exposure.
• Other medical conditions: Certain medical conditions or medical histories, such as genetic disorders associated with radiosensitive tissue, may also warrant avoidance of CBCT scans or consideration of alternative imaging modalities.

How much does a CBCT scan cost?

At Trendo Dental, we offer three sizes of CBCT scans (small, medium and large) at a cost of 8 000 HUF, 25 000 HUF and 30 000 HUF.

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