What is a dental CBCT scan?

BY TOFTWOOD DENTAL PRACTICE

19 August 2025

Modern dentistry has improved a lot. At Toftwood Dental Practice, we are proud to use the latest technology. This helps us give you the best care possible. One of the most important tools we use in more advanced treatments is the CBCT scan.

If your dentist has suggested one, or you want to know what a CBCT dental scan is, this guide will explain everything. It covers how it works and how it helps your treatment journey.

What is a dental CBCT scan, and how does it work?

A CBCT scan, or Cone Beam Computed Tomography, is a 3D dental imaging and diagnostic tool. It provides a clear view of your teeth, jaw, nerves, sinuses, and nearby bone structure. It’s more advanced than a standard x-ray, offering a three-dimensional image rather than a flat one.

During the scan:

You’ll sit or stand still while the scanner rotates around your head.

The machine captures multiple images from different angles.

These images are combined into a single 3D image on our computer system.

The scan is quick (usually under a minute), entirely painless, and requires no physical contact or invasive procedure.

Why is a CBCT scan done?

How useful are CBCT scanners in dentistry? They let us see much more than traditional X-rays do. With detailed 3D imaging, we can identify potential issues early and plan complex treatments with greater accuracy.

This means fewer surprises, more predictable outcomes, and ultimately better care for you.

Some of the treatments the scan may be used for are:

Dental Implants

One of the most common uses for CBCT is in implant dentistry. When putting in a dental implant, it’s important to check the quality, shape, and density of the jawbone. You also need to avoid nearby nerves and sinuses.

A CBCT scan provides your dentist with a clear view of your mouth. This helps them plan implant placement accurately, leading to better long-term results.

Invisalign

CBCT scans can also be helpful in orthodontic treatment, such as Invisalign. They allow us to analyse jaw position, bite alignment, and tooth roots in more detail. That ensures that your treatment plan is personalised and precise.

In some cases, CBCT scans can reveal underlying structural concerns, helping us design a more effective Invisalign journey.

Root Canal Treatment (Endodontics)

For complex root canal treatments, CBCT scans help visualise the tooth’s internal anatomy, including curved or hidden canals. This helps us clean and treat the root system more thoroughly, reducing the risk of infection returning.

It’s particularly useful in cases where conventional X-rays haven’t provided enough detail.

Wisdom Tooth Removal

When wisdom teeth are impacted or located near nerves or sinuses, a CBCT scan is helpful. It assesses the safest way to carry out the extraction, reducing the chance of complications and improving healing outcomes.

How should you prepare for a CBCT scan?

There’s very little you need to do in advance. However:

You’ll be asked to remove glasses, hearing aids, and metal jewellery from your head and neck area.

Let us know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, so we can advise accordingly.

The most important thing is to stay still during the scan, which only lasts a few seconds.

That’s it; no fasting, no special clothing, and no discomfort.

Key Benefits

Choosing a dental practice that offers CBCT scanning comes with several important advantages:

More accurate diagnoses : We can see in detail what’s happening beneath the surface.

Safer treatment planning: Especially for implants, surgery, or complex root treatments.

Faster results: No need to refer you elsewhere for imaging.

Increased peace of mind: You’ll know your treatment is based on precise information.

Improved outcomes: Advanced planning leads to fewer complications and better results.

Where can you get a CBCT scan?

At Toftwood Dental Practice, we’re pleased to offer CBCT scans right here in Norfolk. That means:

No need to travel to a hospital or external imaging centre.

A streamlined process, from scan to treatment under one roof.

Friendly, familiar faces guiding you every step of the way.

We invest in this technology because we believe our patients deserve the very best care.

Conclusion

A CBCT scan is a valuable tool in modern dentistry, helping your dentist make better decisions for your oral health. Whether you’re considering implants or aligners, this advanced imaging helps ensure your care is tailored to you.

At Toftwood Dental Practice, we’re proud to combine cutting-edge technology with a warm, local approach to patient care. If you’ve been recommended a CBCT scan, our friendly team is always happy to help.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should you expect during a CBCT scan?

The process is very straightforward. You’ll be guided into position and asked to stay still while the scanner rotates around your head. It’s completely painless and takes less than a minute. You won’t feel a thing.

How much time does a CBCT scan take?

The actual scan typically takes between 20 and 40 seconds. The whole appointment may last around 10–15 minutes, including preparation and setup.

What is the difference between a CBCT scan and an X-ray?

While both are imaging tools, a traditional dental x-ray provides a flat, 2D image of your teeth. A CBCT scan, on the other hand, creates a 3D model, giving a much clearer and more comprehensive view of your mouth and jaw. This is particularly helpful for complex treatments where precision is key.

This content is for informational purposes only. Consult a professional for personal advice.

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