3D Cone Beam CT Scan in Valencia, CA

A 3D cone beam CT scan is a variation of a traditional CT scan, and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) describes the dental version as a system that rotates around the patient, capturing data with a cone-shaped X-ray beam. That data is used to reconstruct a three-dimensional image of the teeth, the mouth, jaw and neck, and the ears, nose and throat.

A conventional dental X-ray gives a two-dimensional picture. A CBCT scan gives three-dimensional information instead, which may help with the diagnosis, treatment planning and evaluation of certain conditions. Dental CBCT systems have been sold in the United States since the early 2000s.

A CBCT scan is used in dentistry for dental implant planning, looking at abnormal teeth, evaluating the jaws and face, assessing a cleft palate, diagnosing cavities, root canal diagnosis and diagnosing dental trauma, according to the FDA. Dentists and radiologists use it increasingly for these clinical questions.

For implants in particular, a cone beam CT X-ray creates 3D images of your soft tissue, nerves and bones. This helps guide implant placement and can show problems in the gums, the roots of teeth and the jaws, while an X-ray also shows whether you have enough bone to support an implant.

A dental cone beam CT scan uses a small amount of radiation: the FDA says its doses are generally lower than other CT exams, but it typically delivers more radiation than conventional dental X-ray exams. The clinical benefit of a medically appropriate X-ray exam outweighs the small radiation risk, and efforts should still be made to minimize that risk.

Children and younger patients need extra care. Younger patients are more sensitive to radiation and have a longer lifetime for ill effects to develop, so concerns about radiation exposure are greater for them. Ask whether size-based protocols for children are used before a child has a scan.

You need a CBCT scan only when it is necessary for the diagnosis or treatment of disease: the American Dental Association (ADA) and the FDA both recommend dental X-ray exams, including CBCT, only when necessary. Dental CBCT should be performed only when it provides clinical information that other imaging cannot.

So most visits do not call for one. Your dentist reviews your history and examines your mouth to decide whether you need X-rays, and you may not need an X-ray at every dental visit. If a previous dentist has images of you, your new dentist may ask for copies instead of ordering new ones.

Before a CBCT scan, ask your dentist about its benefits and risks and whether the exam is necessary, as the FDA recommends for every X-ray imaging procedure. These questions help you take part in the decision rather than simply agreeing to a scan.

Our office has an in-office 3D cone beam CT scanner that gives a detailed view of teeth, jawbone, sinuses and nearby nerves. It is used to evaluate complex concerns and plan implant treatment with greater precision. Dr. Robert P. Hedvat, a general dentist practicing since 2011, places implants and does bone grafting at our office.

Because the scanner is on site, the scan does not need an outside imaging referral, and every scan here is taken only when clinically justified. 3D imaging works with the digital systems used for implant guides and surgical planning, including virtual placement of implants before surgery. Read more about dental implants, bone grafting and digital X-rays.

We accept most PPO dental plans. Benefits and network participation vary by plan, so our team will gladly verify your coverage before treatment. We also accept CareCredit and offer financial arrangements. Call (661) 255-1211 or request an appointment online.