Dental CBCT Scan: What Is It & Why You Need One

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by Atlanta Center for Advanced Periodontics, Cosmetic, and Implant Dentistry | Aug 13, 2021 | Implants

If you’re preparing for dental implants or other specialized treatment, you may hear your periodontist mention a CBCT scan. Not sure what that means? You’re not alone.

Here’s what our patients have often asked us:

What exactly is a CBCT scan?
Is it different from a regular dental x-ray?
Why do I need it?
What should I expect during the scan?

At Atlanta Center for Advanced Periodontics, we utilize CBCT imaging daily in our Midtown and Sandy Springs locations to provide patients from the area and nearby neighborhoods, such as Ansley Park, Buckhead, and Brookhaven, with precise, effective, and personalized care. Our periodontists are here to answer all your questions about CBCT scans and why we use them.

First, what is a CBCT scan?

CBCT stands for Cone-Beam Computed Tomography. It’s a powerful type of 3D dental imaging that captures 150–200 images of your head in less than a minute using a cone-shaped x-ray beam. These images are then stitched together to create a detailed 3D model of your:

Teeth
Jawbone and sinuses
Nerves and soft tissue
Ear, nose, and throat structures (ENT)

What’s the difference between CBCT and standard x-rays?

You’ve probably heard of or received full mouth x-rays (FMX) or panoramic x-rays (PANO) from your dentist in the past.

FMX — Typically taken every 3-5 years by your dentist. The FMX captures images of each tooth and the surrounding structures and is used to diagnose gum disease, cavities, dental abscesses, and lesions.
PANO — A single picture image most often used by oral surgeons and orthodontists. This type of x-ray does not provide explicit detail.

Compared to these standard x-rays, a dental CBCT scan is a much more detailed and effective method of capturing information about your dental health. CBCT technology also uses less radiation and requires fewer scans to see the different views and angles of your mouth. Plus, unlike traditional dental x-rays, the cone beam CT scan can show both bones and soft tissues.

What are the benefits of CBCT scans?

A healthy smile starts with a foundation of healthy bones and gums. Our periodontists are dedicated to helping you build and maintain that foundation. CBCT scans are an important part of providing high-quality periodontal care and helping you achieve total dental health.

There are many benefits to getting a CBCT scan:

Better image quality and accuracy
Provides comprehensive information about your oral health
Comfortable and quick experience
A lower dose of radiation

Why are CBCT scans necessary?

Since a CBCT scan shows all your bones, nerves, and soft tissues in high detail, this allows us to diagnose your health and plan our treatment approach before we even begin a procedure.

Notably, this technology is a key step in planning and performing successful dental implant surgery and bone regeneration treatment. CBCT scans help your periodontist:

Provide accurate measurements, including the shape and dimensions of your jaw
Identify gum issues
Detect lesions that may indicate serious disease
Locate the origin of any pain
Evaluate your sinuses, nasal cavity, and nerve canal
Plan treatments like gum grafting or osseous surgery

Why are CBCT scans necessary?

Since a CBCT scan shows all your bones, nerves, and soft tissues in high detail, this allows us to diagnose your health and plan our treatment approach before we even begin a procedure.

Notably, this technology is a key step in planning and performing successful dental implant surgery and bone regeneration treatment. CBCT scans help your periodontist:

Provide accurate measurements, including the shape and dimensions of your jaw
Identify gum issues
Detect lesions that may indicate serious disease
Locate the origin of any pain
Evaluate your sinuses, nasal cavity, and nerve canal
Plan treatments like gum grafting or osseous surgery

CBCT scans for dental implant treatment

CBCT scans are an important part of modern implant treatment. All in all, this technology makes it easy for our team to take a complete virtual model of your soft tissues, bones, and teeth and provide better outcomes.

CBCT scans help our periodontists:

Accurately design the proper bite, reducing the risk of misaligned implants
Measure and localize the available jawbone, the location of the maxillary sinus, and the sensory nerves
Select the right size and length of implant for optimal stability, safety, and integration

With CBCT imaging, we can also evaluate candidacy for solutions such as implant-supported dentures and detect issues in failed implant treatments.

Common symptoms that might require a CBCT Scan

If you’re dealing with any of these dental problems, a CBCT scan could be the first step in identifying the cause and planning effective treatment:

TMJ
Bone Loss
Missing Teeth
Misaligned Teeth

What to expect when you get a CBCT scan

Getting a cone beam CT scan is fast, comfortable, and requires no special preparation. Here’s what you can expect:

We’ll ask you to remove anything that may interfere with the imaging, including metal objects, such as jewelry, eyeglasses, and hearing aids.
Women should always inform their dentist or oral surgeon if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
You will be asked to remain very still during the scan.
The imaging machine will rotate entirely around your head.

The scan is very quick and in most cases, will take only about 30 seconds!

Backed by technology, led by experts

Our offices are equipped with i-CAT CBCT technology, ensuring detailed scans with minimal radiation. But even the best tech means little without skilled interpretation, and that’s where our team truly shines.

Dr. Brock Pumphrey

A board-certified periodontist and Atlanta native, Dr. Pumphrey brings advanced training and a commitment to independent, high-quality care. He’s a Master Clinician in implant surgery and leads several local study clubs.

Dr. Davis

Dr. Davis blends expertise with empathy. Also board-certified, she specializes in IV sedation, cosmetic gum surgery, and complex surgical cases, making even advanced treatment feel comfortable and clear.

Together, Drs. Pumphrey and Davis are among the few board-certified periodontists in Atlanta with the experience and credentials to match their compassionate approach.

Convenient locations, unmatched care

We’re proud to serve the communities of Midtown and Sandy Springs with care rooted in precision, artistry, and experience.

Explore our locations

Midtown Atlanta
Sandy Springs

Got more questions about CBCT scans?

We’re here to help. Whether you’re ready to plan treatment or still exploring options, our team is happy to walk you through what to expect and how we can help.

We make it easy to get started. Visit our patient information page to learn about payment options, post-op instructions, and answers to frequently asked questions.

Prefer to speak with someone directly? Give us a call:

Midtown Office: (404) 876-4867

Sandy Springs Office: (770) 442-1010

Or contact us online to learn more or schedule a visit.

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Từ khóa » Cbct X Ray

First, what is a CBCT scan?

What’s the difference between CBCT and standard x-rays?

What are the benefits of CBCT scans?

Why are CBCT scans necessary?

Why are CBCT scans necessary?

CBCT scans for dental implant treatment

Common symptoms that might require a CBCT Scan

What to expect when you get a CBCT scan

Backed by technology, led by experts

Dr. Brock Pumphrey

Dr. Davis

Convenient locations, unmatched care

Got more questions about CBCT scans?

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About

Locations

Contact Us

New Patients

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Implants

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Periodontal

Extractions

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Dental Problems

Midtown Atlanta

Sandy Springs

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