In this page, we’ll discuss Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) Scan.
When I was a kid, I enjoyed making animations by flipping pages. Each picture was a static image, but when combined, they created an animation.
Similarly, with CBCT, multiple 2-dimensional images are combined to create a 3-dimensional image. This allows us to see details that are not visible with conventional X-rays.

In this post, I will discuss six key uses of dental CBCT in dentistry.
1. Planning Dental Implants: By analyzing bone shape in a three-dimensional view, we can find the optimal position and angle for dental implants. After planning, we create a surgical guide to accurately transfer the plan to the actual surgery. (Please check out our information on dental implant surgical guides!)

2. Endodontics (Root Canal Treatment): CBCT allows for a more thorough evaluation of endodontic issues, such as periapical lesions, which are difficult to assess with regular X-rays. It also helps us evaluate healing after successful root canal treatment.*

3. Periodontics (Gum Disease): Periodontitis, also known as gum disease, is a chronic inflammatory condition that damages the gums and bone supporting the teeth. Traditionally, diagnosis relied on tactile sensation, which could be uncomfortable for patients and wasn’t always accurate.

Thanks to CBCT, we can now diagnose gum disease easily and accurately.

4. Sinus Issues: Last month, a 15-year-old boy was referred to me regarding pain on his upper left side. He complained of pain in his upper left first molar, but his dentist couldn’t find any issues with the tooth, which sometimes leads to unnecessary root canal treatment. I gathered more information from him. The boy complained of not only tooth pain but also pain when moving his head or running. Sometimes, sinus inflammation can cause tooth pain, and I confirmed this with CBCT.

The red square area in the image appears fuzzy compared to the green square, indicating a sinus issue. I confirmed his maxillary sinusitis by checking for seasonal allergies, and his symptoms disappeared after taking allergy medication.
5. Wisdom Teeth Assessment: Many wisdom teeth are impacted, and it’s often difficult to predict their exact shape and their relationship to the inferior alveolar nerve using traditional x-rays. Three-dimensional CBCT imaging provides the surgeon with the precise relationship, leading to more accurate diagnoses and safer treatment.

6. Orthodontics (Invisalign, Clear Aligners, Teeth Straightening): This is a newer application for CBCT in dentistry, but Invisalign and clear aligner patients can greatly benefit. In orthodontics, teeth (specifically their roots) move within the bone. Traditionally, we estimated root shapes based on the visible crown. Now, with 3D root and bone images from CBCT, we eliminate guesswork. This allows for more accurate simulation of root movements, ensuring the best possible outcome for your teeth straightening journey.

At Boston Finesse Dentistry & Implant Center, we use the most up-to-date Vatech CBCT X-12. It covers both the upper and lower jaw in one shot, taking less than 10 seconds, while also reducing radiation dose. For more information about dental CBCT, please reach out to us.

Boston Finesse Dentistry & Implant Center
183 Essex St, Boston MA 02111
617-286-6515 (Call/Text) SLee@BostonImplant.com
* Mosquera-Barreiro, C., Ruíz-Piñón, M., Sans, F.A., Nagendrababu, V., Vinothkumar, T.S., Martín-González, J. et al. (2024) Predictors of periapical bone healing associated with teeth having large periapical lesions following nonsurgical root canal treatment or retreatment: A cone beam computed tomography-based retrospective study. International Endodontic Journal, 57, 23–36. Available from: