What Does a CBCT Scan Show: Revealing 3D Dental Imaging

CBCT scans have changed how dentists see what’s happening in your mouth. Unlike old-school X-rays that only show flat images, these 3D dental scans give dentists a complete picture of what’s going on with your teeth, jaw, and surrounding areas.

Dentists tell us their patients are often surprised by all the details these scans show. Many can’t believe how much information is captured in one quick scan. Let’s look at what CBCT scans reveal and why they help both dentists and patients so much.

Detailed Dental Structures

CBCT scans provide crystal-clear views of your teeth from every angle. This includes:

The entire tooth structure from crown to root
Spaces between teeth that might be hiding cavities
Tiny fractures or cracks that might not show up on regular X-rays
The position of wisdom teeth and other hidden teeth
Root canal systems inside teeth

This detailed view helps dentists spot problems early, before they cause pain or require more extensive treatment. For example, a small crack in a tooth might not be visible on a regular X-ray but can be clearly seen on a CBCT scan.

Jawbone Density and Quality

One of the most useful things about CBCT scans is how they show the quality and thickness of your jawbone. This is especially important if you’re considering dental implants.

The scan shows:

How dense your jawbone is in different areas
Where bone might be too thin for an implant
Areas that might need bone grafting before placement
The best spots and angles for implant placement

One of our dental clients shared a success story about a patient who had been turned away for implants. Another dentist had told this patient they didn’t have enough jawbone. After scanning with our CBCT machine, the dentist found a perfect spot with plenty of bone. The patient got their implant without needing any bone grafts.

Sinus Evaluation

Your sinuses sit right above your upper teeth, and problems in one area can affect the other. CBCT scans show:

The size and shape of your sinuses
How close your tooth roots are to your sinus floor
Signs of sinus inflammation or infection
Anatomical variations that might affect treatment

This information is vital for planning certain procedures, especially when working with upper molars where the roots might be close to the sinus cavity.

Infographic showing what a CBCT scan reveals, including TMJ assessment, detailed tooth structures, jawbone density, sinus evaluation, nerve pathways, and dental pathologies. — CBCT scans provide detailed insights into dental and maxillofacial structures, including TMJ assessment, jawbone density, nerve pathways, and sinus evaluations—enhancing precision in diagnostics and treatment planning.

Nerve Pathways Visualization

Perhaps one of the most important safety features of CBCT scans is their ability to show the exact location of nerves in your jaw. This includes:

The inferior alveolar nerve that runs through your lower jaw
Mental nerve branches that provide feeling to your lower lip and chin
Other small nerve pathways that need to be avoided during surgery

This visualization helps prevent nerve damage during procedures like implant placement, wisdom tooth removal, or root canal treatment.

Detecting Dental Pathologies

CBCT scans excel at showing abnormalities that might be missed on traditional X-rays:

Cysts and tumors in the jawbone
Abscesses around tooth roots
Areas of bone loss from gum disease
Unusual growths or abnormalities

Early detection of these issues can lead to simpler treatment and better outcomes. Finding these problems early means easier treatment and better results for patients. A dental office recently told us about someone with jaw pain that wouldn’t go away. Regular X-rays showed nothing wrong. Then they used a CBCT scan and spotted a tiny cyst pushing against a nerve. After treatment, the pain was gone completely.

TMJ Assessment

The temporomandibular joint (TMJ) connects your jawbone to your skull. CBCT scans provide detailed images of:

The bony structures of the TMJ
Joint spacing abnormalities
Signs of arthritis or joint damage
Positional changes in the joint

For patients with jaw pain, clicking, or limited opening, these images can help identify the cause and guide treatment.

When Might Your Dentist Use a CBCT Scan?

Your dentist might recommend a CBCT scan if you need:

Dental implants
Complex extractions, especially wisdom teeth
Root canal treatment on teeth with unusual anatomy
Evaluation of jaw pain or TMJ problems
Assessment of bone loss from gum disease
Investigation of unexplained pain or symptoms

While not needed for every dental procedure, these scans provide valuable information in many complex cases.

CBCT scans have truly transformed dental care, making treatments safer, more predictable, and often less invasive. By showing dentists exactly what they’re dealing with before they begin treatment, these 3D dental images help ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.

Common FAQ About CBCT Scans Show

How detailed are CBCT images compared to regular dental X-rays?

CBCT scans provide significantly higher detail than traditional dental X-rays. While regular X-rays show teeth and bones in 2D (like a flat picture), CBCT creates detailed 3D images that allow dentists to examine your dental structures from every angle. This means they can see the exact position, shape, and relationship between different structures with much greater precision.

Will my insurance cover a CBCT scan?

Insurance coverage for CBCT scans varies depending on your dental plan and the reason for the scan. Many insurance companies do cover CBCT scans when they’re deemed medically necessary for procedures like implant planning, impacted tooth evaluation, or diagnosing complex conditions. It’s always best to check with your insurance provider beforehand to understand your coverage.

Are CBCT scans uncomfortable?

No, CBCT scans are completely painless and non-invasive. During the scan, you’ll simply sit or stand while the machine rotates around your head. You’ll be asked to remain still for about 10-40 seconds while the images are captured. There’s no discomfort involved, making it an easy experience even for patients who feel anxious about dental procedures.

How often should I get a CBCT scan?

Unlike routine dental X-rays, CBCT scans are typically not part of regular dental checkups. They’re usually recommended only when specific diagnostic information is needed for treatment planning. Your dentist will determine when a CBCT scan is necessary based on your individual dental needs and the specific procedures being considered.