What is CBCT?

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is an advanced 3D imaging technology specifically adapted for dental and maxillofacial applications. Conventional dental X-rays including OPG and RVG produce two-dimensional images. While a CBCT scan captures a three-dimensional volume of the region being examined. This allows the dentist or dental specialists to view the anatomy in multiple planes and when appropriate, reconstruct the images into detailed 3D representations.

What additional information can a CBCT provide?

A CBCT scan can provide valuable information about:

• Teeth, Jawbones and surrounding structures.
• Vital anatomical stuctures like Inferior alveolar nerve canal and maxillary sinus
• Relationship between teeth and vital anatomical structures
• Areas of bone loss and other structural changes
• Planning for maxillofacial surgeries and dental implant procedures

These additional informations can be particularly valuable when a conventional examination or 2D X-ray does not provide sufficient information for diagnosis or treatment planning.

Why is 3D Imaging Important in Dentistry?

The mouth and jaws are three-dimensional structures. Traditional extraoral X-ray like OPG and intraoral X-ray like RVG provide two-dimensional images.        This can sometimes make it difficult to accurately determine the depth, position, angulation and relationship of different anatomical structures.

What are the indications of use of CBCT in Dentistry?

1. CBCT in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery –

• Surgical removal of impacted teeth
• Dental implant placement
• Bone grafting procedures
• Management of jaw lesions
• Evaluation and management of facial and jaw trauma
• Evaluation and management of TMJ disorders

2. CBCT in Endodontics –

• Additional or missed canals
• Unusual root morphology
• Calcified canals
• Suspected root fractures
• Persistent infection after previous root canal treatment
• Periapical pathology that is difficult to characterize
• Complicated retreatment cases

3. CBCT in precise Dental Implant planning –

• Available bone height
• Bone width and morphology
• Position of important nerves
• Relationship to the maxillary sinus
• Location of adjacent tooth roots
• Three-dimensional anatomy of the proposed implant site

4. CBCT in Orthodontics –

• Impacted or unerupted teeth
• Complex tooth positioning
• Root relationships
• Skeletal relationships
• Airway-related anatomy in selected cases
• Other complex orthodontic conditions

Is CBCT Better than a conventional dental X-Ray?

CBCT and conventional dental X-rays serve different purposes.

A conventional dental X-ray may be completely adequate for many routine dental conditions. It is not necessary to perform a CBCT scan for every patient or every dental problem.

However, when detailed three-dimensional information is clinically required, CBCT can provide significantly more anatomical information than a conventional two-dimensional radiograph.

The key advantage is therefore not that CBCT replaces conventional X-rays, but that it provides an additional level of diagnostic information when indicated.

Is CBCT Safe?

CBCT uses X-rays, and therefore radiation exposure is an important consideration.

Modern dental CBCT systems are designed to provide clinically useful three-dimensional information while using radiation doses appropriate for the examination. The exact radiation exposure depends on factors such as the field of view, scan settings and the area being examined.

What defines the “Best” CBCT Machine?

When dental professionals evaluate systems, the choice depends on specific practice requirements. But ultimately one would define a very good CBCT machine depending on :

• Field of View (FOV) Options: Small FOV is ideal for endodontics and single implants, while medium-to-large FOV supports orthodontics, full-arch implants, and maxillofacial surgery.
• Image Quality & Software: High spatial resolution paired with AI-powered diagnostic and planning software.
• Multi-Function Integration: 3-in-1 capabilities combining CBCT, 2D panoramic (OPG), and cephalometric imaging on a single platform.

Why should one consider getting a CBCT done at “The Elements” – superspeciality dental centre?

One should choose a centre for a CBCT scan after thoroughly checking the machine quality, staff skills, and safety certifications.

At “The Elements”, the state of art Dentium bright CT – 1T is an AI-powered 3D Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and panoramic imaging system that is designed for precise dental diagnostics and implant planning.

It has 2-in-1 system combining CBCT and Panoramic (PANO) imaging with flexible multi-FOV coverage scaling up to 17.5 x 15 cm via stitching modes, supporting tooth-focused local views to full-arch skeletal diagnostics. The machine utilizes an efficient fast scan rotation (approx. 240°) designed to significantly lower radiation dose compared to traditional units.

“The Elements” is one of the most advanced Dental centers of the city, spread over 4000 sq ft area with experienced specialists and general dentists and 8 fully operational individualized dental units for patient privacy and safety, advanced equipment like scanners, piezo surgery etc, one can easily consult for any doubts and concerns unlike any diagnostic centers where absence of any qualified dentists is a major problem to solve any patients queries and concerns. 

“The Elements” – Superspeciality Dental Center

Off no. 103 A/B, 1^st floor,

Devavrata Premises, Near Vashi Plaza

Sec-17, Vashi, Navi Mumbai

Tel: 9819816669 / 9004927070

www.elementsdentalclinic.com