Dental imaging may include an OPG panoramic X-ray or cone beam CT for detailed three-dimensional assessment of the teeth, jaws and facial bones.
What is cone beam CT?
Cone beam CT, or CBCT, uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam to create high-resolution three-dimensional images of the teeth, jaws and facial skeleton. It is designed mainly for dental and bony anatomy rather than detailed soft-tissue assessment.
Why might it be requested?
- Dental implant planning and measurement of available bone.
- Impacted teeth and wisdom-tooth assessment.
- Complex root canal or tooth-root anatomy.
- Orthodontic and craniofacial planning.
- Jaw lesions, fractures or surgical planning.
- Bony assessment of the temporomandibular joints.
OPG, CBCT and medical CT
An OPG is a two-dimensional panoramic image that provides a broad overview of the teeth and jaws. CBCT provides more detailed three-dimensional bony information. Conventional medical CT covers a larger region and is often better when soft tissue, complex facial trauma, tumour staging or contrast enhancement is important.
MRI, ultrasound or another test may still be required for soft tissue, salivary glands, nerves, discs or suspected cancer. The imaging choice depends on the dental or medical question.
Before and during the examination
Tell the clinic if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. Remove glasses, earrings, facial piercings, removable dental appliances and other metal around the head and neck when instructed.
You may stand, sit or lie down depending on the machine. Your head is positioned carefully and you may bite on a small guide. The scanner moves around your head while you remain still. The acquisition is quick and painless.
Radiation and results
CBCT uses ionising radiation. Dose varies with the field of view, resolution and protocol. The smallest field that answers the question should be used. A radiologist or appropriately qualified dental practitioner interprets the images and sends the result to the referrer.
Related Patient Guides
- PG2001 – CT Scan: What to Expect Before, During and After Your Appointment
- PG2002 – What Is Spectral CT? A Simple Patient Guide
- PG2003 – Spectral CT in Cancer Imaging: What Patients Should Know
- PG2004 – CT Contrast: Iodine Contrast Explained
- PG2005 – Radiation Dose in CT: Understanding Risk, Benefit and Context
- PG2006 – Low-Dose CT Lung Screening: Preparation, Results and Follow-Up
- PG2007 – Coronary Artery Calcium Score: What the Test Can and Cannot Show
- PG2008 – CT Coronary Angiography: How to Prepare and What to Expect
- PG2009 – CT Angiography: Brain, Neck, Aorta and Peripheral Arteries
We have more detailed information on many interesting regenerative and radiological topics on our Insights page
Frequently Asked Questions
For other FAQs please visit our FAQs page
Does dental CBCT use contrast?
Usually not. Most dental CBCT examinations are performed without intravenous contrast.
Will braces or fillings affect the scan?
Dental metal can cause streak artefact but does not usually prevent the examination. Tell the clinic about removable appliances.
Is CBCT better than an OPG?
It provides more three-dimensional detail, but it also uses more radiation. The correct test is the least complex examination that can answer the clinical question.
| Important: Dental CBCT is not a substitute for clinical dental examination, biopsy or dedicated medical imaging when the abnormality extends beyond teeth and bone. |
PATIENT GUIDE • PG-2010 [Patient information: Dental imaging may include an OPG panoramic X-ray or cone beam CT for detailed three-dimensional assessment of the teeth, jaws and facial bones.]
For further reading on CT Scans please see below:
- Appendicitis CT Scan
- Chest CT Scan
- CT Scan for Back Pain
- Knee CT Scan
- Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Asbestosis CT Scan
- CT Abdomen Scan
- Heart CT Scan
- Lung CT Scan
- Sinus CT Scan
- Brain CT Scan
- CT Scan Calcium Score
- Kidney CT Scan
- Neck CT Scan
Looking for the best CT scan on the Gold Coast or comparing CT imaging in Brisbane?
The scanner matters, but so do the protocol, contrast timing, radiation dose, reconstruction and radiologist interpretation. MBR Health combines advanced Spectral CT technology with examination-specific protocol design.Bulk Billed CT on the Gold Coast
MBR Health offers bulk billed CT on the Gold Coast for most standard diagnostic Spectral CT examinations where Medicare eligibility requirements are met.
