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CBCT Scan For Cavities

Dental caries x-ray

In the ever-evolving landscape of dental diagnostics, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans have emerged as a transformative technology, revolutionizing the way dentists detect and diagnose cavities. Traditional methods often struggled to provide comprehensive insights into dental health, but CBCT scans offer unparalleled clarity and precision, allowing dental professionals to visualize even the minutest details within the oral cavity. This advanced imaging technique not only enhances diagnostic accuracy but also enables early detection of cavities, leading to more proactive and effective treatment plans. 

Before you deciding on whether a CBCT Scan for Cavities is right for you, there are some things you should know:

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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. 

This approach offers dentists an unparalleled view of the oral anatomy, allowing for precise analysis of dental conditions such as cavities, bone density, root morphology, and the presence of abnormalities. The ability of CBCT scans to provide detailed, three-dimensional images with minimal distortion makes them invaluable tools in modern dentistry, facilitating accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.

Dental caries

What Are Cavities?

Cavities, also known as dental caries or tooth decay, are a common dental issue characterized by the gradual breakdown of tooth enamel, the outer protective layer of the teeth. This process is primarily caused by the interaction between bacteria in the mouth and sugars from food and beverages, which produces acids that erode the enamel over time. If left untreated, cavities can progress deeper into the tooth, leading to pain, infection, and potentially tooth loss. Cavities typically manifest as small holes or pits in the teeth, accompanied by symptoms such as tooth sensitivity, pain when biting or chewing, and visible discoloration. They can occur on any surface of the tooth but are most commonly found in areas where plaque tends to accumulate, such as the pits and fissures of molars and premolars, and along the gumline. Early detection and intervention are crucial to prevent the progression of cavities and preserve dental health.

Why Do I Need A CBCT Scan For Cavities?

While traditional dental x-rays are effective for detecting cavities, they may not always provide a comprehensive view of the extent and location of decay, especially in complex cases or areas where cavities are hidden from plain sight. This is where CBCT scans offer a significant advantage. CBCT scans provide detailed 3D images that allow dentists to visualize cavities from multiple angles and perspectives, enhancing their ability to accurately assess the size, shape, and depth of cavities. Additionally, CBCT scans can reveal cavities that may be obscured by overlapping structures in conventional x-rays, such as neighboring teeth or bone. This comprehensive view enables dentists to identify cavities early, even those hidden beneath the enamel surface, and develop precise treatment plans tailored to the individual needs of the patient. Moreover, CBCT scans are particularly valuable for assessing the proximity of cavities to vital structures like nerves and blood vessels, helping to minimize the risk of complications during procedures such as cavity restoration or root canal therapy. In essence, CBCT scans offer unparalleled diagnostic capabilities, making them invaluable tools for detecting and managing cavities with precision and efficiency.

Dental caries CBCT

How Much Does A CBCT Scan Cost For Cavities?

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).

Dental caries CBCT

How Do I Get A CBCT Scan For Cavities?