Computed tomography of teeth

Modern dentistry is impossible without accurate visualization. At Dobrobut Dental Clinic, we have abandoned "blind" methods, as the health of the patient requires maximum precision. Dental computed tomography has become the gold standard of diagnostics, allowing us to see hidden pathologies that cannot be detected during a regular examination or on a flat X-ray. Our clinic is equipped with innovative cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) equipment that provides the highest quality images with minimal impact on the body.

What is dental computed tomography (CT) of teeth

Dental computed tomography of the jaw is a method of three-dimensional radiological examination, during which the device takes a series of images from different angles, and a special program reconstructs them into a full 3D image. Unlike traditional 2D X-rays, where structures overlap, a 3D image of the teeth allows the doctor to “slice” the object in any plane, peer inside the bone, and assess the condition of the roots with millimeter accuracy.

This examination, also known as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), is safe and quick. The entire process takes less than a minute, and the obtained digital data format allows saving results in the patient’s electronic record, transferring them to other specialists, or using them for virtual surgery planning.

Indications for CT of the jaw and teeth

Computed tomography in dentistry is prescribed in almost all areas of treatment where detailed dental diagnostics are needed.

Surgery and dental implantation

For a surgeon, CT is a map of the terrain. Before performing dental implants, it is essential to accurately ascertain whether the bone tissue is sufficient in volume and density. CT helps measure the distance to the maxillary sinuses and the mandibular canal to avoid nerve damage. Additionally, 3D diagnostics are mandatory if sinus lifting or complex tooth extractions are planned, especially for impacted (unerupted) “wisdom teeth.”

Therapeutic treatment and endodontics

Quality root canal treatment is impossible without understanding their anatomy. A CT scan of the tooth shows the precise number of canals (even additional ones), their curvature, and length. Furthermore, tomography is indispensable for diagnosing hidden cavities on the contact surfaces of teeth, detecting cysts, granulomas, and chronic foci of infection that are not “seen” by standard X-rays.

Orthodontics and bite correction

Before placing braces, the orthodontist must evaluate the inclination of the roots, the position of the tooth buds, and the condition of the jaw bones. CT enables the creation of a comprehensive treatment plan, considering not only the aesthetics of the smile but also the correct occlusion and the health of the joints.

Periodontology and monitoring gum health

Periodontal diseases often lead to the destruction of the tooth's bony support. CT allows for precise determination of the level of resorption (disappearance) of the bone around each tooth, assessing the depth of periodontal pockets, and monitoring the dynamics of recovery after treatment.

Contraindications: who should not undergo tomography

Dental computed tomography in dentistry has very few contraindications due to the low radiation dose; however, we always adhere to safety principles:

• Pregnancy: the first trimester is an absolute contraindication. In the second and third trimesters, CT is performed only for life-threatening indications after consultation with an obstetrician.
• Children under 5 years of age: the study is assigned exclusively for life-threatening indications (suspected tumor, injury, developmental abnormalities).
• Psychomotor agitation or mental disorders: the inability to remain still during scanning reduces the diagnostic value of the study.
• Metal structures: not a contraindication, but the presence of a large number of metal crowns or posts may create artifacts on the image (reflections), slightly impairing visualization; however, the modern software in our clinic successfully minimizes this effect.

During the procedure, the patient is required to wear a special protective apron with a lead lining to protect the thyroid gland and internal organs from scattered radiation.

Types of CT Studies in Dentistry

Depending on the clinical situation, we offer various scanning zones:

• CT of both jaws (full arch) — a complete volumetric study of the dental and jaw apparatus; used in primary diagnostics, comprehensive rehabilitation, orthodontic treatment, and multiple implants.
• CT of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) — performed in open and closed mouth positions; indicated for TMJ dysfunction, suspicion of pathology of the articular head and disc, as well as for occlusal disorders. Professional gnathology is not possible without it.
• CT of the paranasal sinuses (maxillary sinuses) — an indispensable study prior to sinus lifting, in odontogenic sinusitis, and for evaluating anatomical variations in the structure of the maxillary sinus.
• CT of segment 1–2 teeth — localized three-dimensional study of the jaw area of interest (up to 3 teeth). Used at the stage of additional diagnostics as a method of interim control during treatment.

Stages of Computer Tomography Procedure

The procedure at Dobrobut Dental Clinic is maximally comfortable and quick:

1. Preparation: you remove all metal jewelry from your head and neck (earrings, piercings, chains) to avoid reducing image quality.
2. Positioning: the radiologist helps you position yourself in the machine. It is necessary to rest your chin on a special support and bite on the bite block.
3. Scanning: the machine's frame rotates around your head. This takes 15–20 seconds. It is very important not to move and not to swallow saliva during this time.
4. Obtaining results: the program processes the data, and in a few minutes, the doctor receives a complete 3D image.

Advantages of 3D Dental Diagnostics at Dobrobut Dental Clinic

We strive for every patient to feel safe and confident in the results. Our advantages include:

• Low dose: modern machines generate X-rays in a narrow beam, which makes the dose several times smaller than that of spiral CT of other organs.
• High resolution: the clarity of the image allows for detail visibility with accuracy up to 0.1 mm.
• Accuracy of planning: absence of distortions typical for regular panoramic images or orthopantomograms (OPG).
• Team approach: CT results are available to all doctors in the clinic within a single digital network.
• Affordability: we offer loyal conditions — a 20% discount for internally displaced persons on consultations and a 20% discount for defenders of Ukraine. You can also receive a 15% discount on diagnostics and treatment up to your birthday.

Questions and Answers

What are the advantages of dental CT over traditional X-ray?

Regular X-ray is a "shadow" of the object, where one detail obscures another. CT is a volumetric model. It allows you to see what is hidden "behind the tooth" or inside the bone.

How to prepare for the 3D scanning procedure?

No special preparation is needed. You can eat and take medications. The main thing is to inform the doctor about any possible pregnancy and to remove metal before the examination.

Can CT be done with braces or implants?

Yes, it can. Although metal creates small "artifacts," they usually do not interfere with the evaluation of the main structures. This is important for monitoring treatment progress.

Is the level of radiation exposure during CT safe?

Yes. The dose during one jaw CT is comparable to several hours of flying in an airplane or a few days of natural sunlight exposure. It is safe even for children.

Can dental CT be performed during pregnancy or lactation?

During lactation – yes, it does not affect the milk in any way. During pregnancy – only if absolutely necessary in the second trimester, using an enhanced protective apron.

How often can computer tomography be performed?

According to medical protocols, follow-up CT scans can be done several times a year without harm to health, if required by a complex treatment plan.