CBCT Scans For Tooth Abscess

In the realm of modern dentistry, technological advancements have revolutionized diagnostic tools, leading to more precise and efficient ways of identifying and treating dental issues. Among these groundbreaking innovations, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans have emerged as a game-changer in the detection and management of tooth abscesses. A tooth abscess, a painful and potentially serious condition resulting from bacterial infection, demands accurate and timely diagnosis for effective treatment. Before you deciding on whether a CBCT Scan for Tooth Abscess is right for you, there are some things you should know:

If you have any further questions about CBCT Scans at Oral Radiology Toronto, please contact us.

What Are CBCT Scans?

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is a revolutionary x-ray imaging technology, providing three-dimensional views of the patient’s dental anatomy, including teeth, bones, nerves, and surrounding tissues. Unlike traditional two-dimensional X-rays, CBCT captures high-resolution, cross-sectional images by utilizing a cone-shaped beam of ionizing radiation.

The result is a detailed and accurate representation that enables dental professionals to assess anatomical structures with precision, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the patient’s oral health. CBCT scans have become an invaluable tool, not only for routine dental assessments but also for addressing complex issues such as tooth abscesses.

What Is A Tooth Abscess?

A tooth abscess is a distressing and potentially serious dental condition characterized by a localized accumulation of pus within the tooth or in the surrounding tissues. Typically arising from a bacterial infection, this painful condition can manifest when bacteria invade the dental pulp—the innermost part of the tooth that houses nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissues. The infection can result from untreated cavities, dental trauma, or advanced gum disease. As the infection progresses, the body’s immune response triggers the formation of pus, leading to swelling, intense pain, and often the development of a dental abscess. This abscess can occur either at the root of the tooth (periapical abscess) or in the surrounding gums (periodontal abscess). Left untreated, a tooth abscess can lead to severe complications, including the spread of infection to other parts of the body. Prompt and accurate diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment, making advanced imaging techniques like CBCT scans pivotal in unraveling the complexities of a tooth abscess and guiding dentists in developing targeted and successful treatment plans.

Why Do I Need A CBCT Scan For Tooth Abscess?

Identifying the cause of a tooth abscess can be hard to diagnose. A tooth abscess typically arises from a bacterial infection within the tooth or its surrounding tissues. Several causes can lead to the development of a tooth abscess, and understanding these causes is crucial for effective treatment. Here are common causes for a tooth abscess:

Untreated Cavities: Dental cavities, commonly caused by tooth decay, create openings in the enamel, allowing bacteria to infiltrate the inner layers of the tooth.
Dental Trauma: Physical injuries to the teeth, such as fractures or chips, can expose the pulp, making it vulnerable to bacterial invasion and infection.
Gum Disease (Periodontitis): Advanced stages of gum disease can lead to the formation of pockets between the teeth and gums, providing a conducive environment for bacterial growth and abscess development.
Root Canal Complications: Previous dental procedures, particularly inadequately performed root canals, can leave residual infections or allow bacteria to re-enter the tooth, leading to abscess formation.
Impacted Teeth: Teeth that are partially erupted or impacted (unable to fully emerge from the gums) may create spaces where bacteria can accumulate, increasing the risk of infection.

Recognizing the underlying causes of a tooth abscess is vital for choosing the correct type of treatment. The utilization of Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans provide a detailed, three-dimensional view of the affected area, offering unparalleled insights into the extent and nature of the infection. CBCT’s ability to capture cross-sectional images allows for a comprehensive examination of the tooth, surrounding bone, and adjacent structures. This advanced imaging technique aids in precisely locating the abscess, assessing its size, determining the potential impact on neighboring tissuesIn essence, as well as identifying any anatomical conditions with the involved tooth.

How Much Does A CBCT Scan Cost For Tooth Abscess?

At Oral Radiology Toronto, we provide quick and convenient dental CBCT scans for busy dentists and patients in the downtown Toronto area. Our CBCT scans are useful for assessing the teeth, their supporting structures, the mandible and maxilla up to the floor of the nose.

Our competitively priced dental CBCT scans are professionally reviewed and interpreted by a Canadian licensed Oral Radiologist.

Prices are based on the size of CBCT volume:

Small Field CBCT (most dental cases; 5x5cm): $227
Medium Field CBCT : $306.45
Large Field CBCT (8x8cm): $388.50
Panoramic X-Ray: $82

Normal CBCT report turnaround time is up to 10 business days. Expedited reporting (2 business days) is an extra $50.

Please note that we do NOT offer field of views larger than 8x8cm or imaging of structures outside the maxilla and mandible, such as the temporomandibular joints, paranasal sinuses, the cervical spine, the neck and the airway spaces (i.e. craniofacial CT scan).

How Do I Get A CBCT Scan For Tooth Abscess?

For Referring Dentists: Refer a dental patient for a CBCT Scan using our Online Referral Form.
For Dental Patients: Schedule a CBCT scan visit at Oral Radiology Toronto using our Online Appointment Booking System.