CBCT Scan
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Procedure time
1-2 minutes
What is this treatment?
A dental cone beam CT scanner uses x-rays and a computer to produce 3D cross sectional images of the jaws and teeth.
The machine moves around your head in a circular motion in a similar way to the panoramic dental radiography unit which is commonly used in dental surgeries and hospitals, which you may have already experienced.
We operate on a dentist referral basis only.
Please speak to your dentist about getting referred to this clinic.
How long does it take?
An initial consultation appointment lasting approximately 20 – 30 minutes will be required. The procedure time can vary between 60 – 120 minutes, but this will vary on each individual patient’s needs.
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How much does it cost?
CBCT scan may be required to accompany a range of treatments at South Down Clinic. You will also be provided with a personalised treatment plan following a consultant appointment.
The following prices are a guide only please refer to our full price list for guidance on the cost of treatments that may require you to have a CBCT scan.
One Jaw
£120
Two Jaws
£220
Sectional
£90 - £120
What happens during dental cone beam CT (CBCT)?
You will be standing in the CBCT machine. Your head will be carefully positioned and you will be asked to keep absolutely still while the scan is taken.
The positioning takes a few minutes, but the scan itself takes only a minute or so.
Why should I have a dental CBCT?
The scan will give is detailed information which cannot be obtained from more conventional x-ray equipment.
For example, if you are being considered for dental implants or other special procedures it enables us to assess the exact shape of the bone.
What are the risks?
CBCT scans are low dose examinations and give an x-ray dose to the patient that is considerably less than a medical CT scan. A CBCT scan of the whole jaw would be comparable to approximately 12 – 30 days of normal background radiation.
As with any x-ray examination, please inform the radiographer if you might be pregnant.
How can I prepare for dental CBCT?
Before your CBCT you will be asked to remove glasses, denture, hearing aids, earrings, tongue studs, necklaces, hair clips and any other metal accessories that may affect the scan. This is not an examination that requires any injections or special preparations beforehand.
If you are having the scan for dental implant planning, you may be asked by your dentist to wear a stent. This is a special “plate” which you will wear rather like a denture, containing markers to guide our x-ray examination. You will only need to wear this during the scan.
What happens after I have had the CBCT scan?
Your scan is available straight away and normally the findings can be discussed with you afterwards. No special aftercare is necessary.
If you have been referred to clinic specifically for a CT scan, a report will be sent back to your referring dentists. Any necessary follow-up appointments can be arranged at reception.