Three-dimensional imaging may help localise impacted teeth and assess complex anatomy when conventional orthodontic images are not enough.
Common orthodontic imaging
Orthodontic assessment often begins with clinical examination, photographs, digital dental models, an OPG and a lateral cephalogram. These provide important information with relatively low radiation exposure.
When CBCT may be useful
CBCT may be considered for impacted or unerupted teeth, suspected root resorption, supernumerary teeth, craniofacial anomalies, complex asymmetry or selected surgical and orthodontic planning questions.
It can show the three-dimensional position of an impacted tooth relative to nearby roots, the nasal cavity, palate, cortical bone and other structures.
Children and adolescents
Many orthodontic patients are young and more sensitive to radiation. CBCT should therefore be justified for the individual question and should not be used routinely merely to create a complete 3D record. The smallest suitable field of view and exposure settings should be selected.
Airway measurements
CBCT can show the shape of the air-containing pharyngeal space at the time of the scan, but airway size varies with head position, breathing and wakefulness. CBCT cannot diagnose obstructive sleep apnoea or replace a clinical sleep assessment.
For broader dental imaging information, visit X-ray & Dental Imaging at MBR Health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does every orthodontic patient need CBCT?
No. Most patients can be assessed with clinical examination and conventional orthodontic imaging. CBCT is used for selected questions where the 3D information is likely to affect management.
Can CBCT show whether an impacted tooth can be brought into position?
It can clarify position and nearby anatomy, but feasibility depends on the tooth, available space, root condition and the orthodontic and surgical plan.
Can CBCT diagnose sleep apnoea?
No. It may show airway anatomy, but sleep apnoea requires clinical assessment and usually a sleep study or other appropriate testing.
Related Patient Guides
See the full MBR Health Patient Guides library for simple information about imaging, preparation, safety and results.
- PG5001 Cone Beam CT: What to Expect Before, During and After Your Scan
- PG5002 Cone Beam CT vs OPG and Standard Dental X-Rays
- PG5003 Cone Beam CT Radiation Dose and Safety
- PG5004 Cone Beam CT for Dental Implant Planning
- PG5005 Cone Beam CT for Wisdom Teeth and Oral Surgery
- PG5006 Cone Beam CT for Root Canal and Endodontic Assessment
- PG5008 Cone Beam CT for the Jaw Joint and Facial Skeleton
- PG5009 Sinuses, Airways and Incidental Findings on Dental CBCT
- PG5010 What Cone Beam CT Can and Cannot Show
Related MBR Health services: X-ray & Dental Imaging • Dental X-Ray
More FAQs: For other common imaging and appointment questions, visit the MBR Health FAQs page.
| Important: Because younger patients are more sensitive to radiation, orthodontic CBCT should be targeted to a specific clinical question rather than used as routine screening. |
PATIENT GUIDE • PG5007 | Patient information: orthodontic CBCT Gold Coast
Need advanced orthodontic 3D imaging on the Gold Coast or travelling from Brisbane?
Patients looking for expert orthodontic imaging, impacted-tooth localisation or advanced 3D dental radiology may be referred for CBCT when standard orthodontic images do not answer the question. MBR Health provides targeted cone beam CT on the Gold Coast, with careful field-of-view selection and specialist radiologist reporting rather than routine 3D imaging for every orthodontic patient.
Explore: X-ray & Dental Imaging • Dental X-Ray
