General Dentistry
CBCT Scan
A Cone Beam CT scan captures detailed 3D images of your teeth, bone, nerves, and soft tissue — giving your dentist a complete picture before complex procedures.
Overview
Understanding CBCT Scan
A CBCT scan (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) is a specialized 3D imaging system that captures highly detailed images of your oral structures in a single rotation. Unlike traditional 2D X-rays, CBCT provides a full three-dimensional view of your teeth, jawbone, sinuses, nerve canals, and soft tissue.
CBCT scans are used to plan dental implant placement with precision, assess bone density, diagnose cysts and infections invisible on standard X-rays, evaluate wisdom tooth positions, and plan surgical procedures. The images allow your dentist to measure exact bone dimensions and identify nerve locations before any procedure begins.
Why It Matters
Benefits of CBCT Scan
Precise 3D mapping of bone, nerves, and sinuses
Safer implant planning with exact nerve location data
Detects conditions invisible on standard X-rays
Replaces multiple conventional X-rays in one scan
Minimal radiation exposure with modern equipment
Faster, more accurate diagnosis for complex cases
Good to Know
Referred by another dentist?
Not every dental office has a cone beam scanner. If your dentist has asked you to come to us for a CBCT scan, we make the visit straightforward. You book a short imaging appointment, we capture the scan, and one of our team confirms the images contain everything your dentist asked for before you leave.
Referring dentists can send patients to us using our online referral form.
What to expect at your appointment
The scan itself is quick and painless. You stand or sit still while the scanner rotates around your head a single time. There is nothing placed in your mouth and nothing to swallow.
- Remove facial jewellery, hearing aids, and neck chains beforehand, as metal interferes with the images
- You stay still for a single rotation of the scanner
- Your images are reviewed before you leave to confirm nothing needs repeating
- Allow a little extra time if you are visiting us from another clinic
Dr. Patel Dentistry — Ajax, ON
Why Choose Dr. Patel Dentistry for CBCT Scan?
“At Dr. Patel Dentistry in Ajax, we use CBCT imaging to ensure precision in implant planning, surgical extractions, and complex restorations. Our investment in advanced imaging means every procedure is planned meticulously before it begins, reducing surprises and improving outcomes for every patient.”
Common Questions
CBCT Scan FAQ
Is a CBCT scan safe?
Yes. Modern CBCT scanners use a fraction of the radiation of traditional medical CT scans. The scan takes only 20 to 40 seconds and poses minimal risk.
When is a CBCT scan necessary?
Your dentist may recommend one before dental implants, complex extractions, or when standard X-rays are insufficient for an accurate diagnosis.
Does a CBCT scan hurt?
Not at all. You simply stand or sit while the scanner rotates around your head. The entire imaging process takes less than a minute with no discomfort.
Will I get a copy of my scan?
Yes. We can provide your scan as a digital file, on a disc, or send it directly to your referring dentist. Let us know which option works best for you and we will arrange it.
Do I need to prepare for a CBCT appointment?
Very little preparation is needed. You will be asked to remove facial jewellery, hearing aids, and neck chains before the scan, since metal can interfere with the images. Everything else stays as normal.
Ready to Book?
Contact Dr. Patel Dentistry in Ajax today. We are accepting new patients and would love to help.