Cone Beam CT

Cone Beam CT (CBCT) is a specialised CT used to capture 3D images of the jaw, mouth, teeth, neck and ears. Soft tissues, bones, nerve tracts and dental structures can be visualised using this technology.

Available at

Cone Beam CT Preparation

When attending for your scan, please bring your referral from your medical practitioner, Medicare card and all other relevant health care cards, and any existing films or reports relating to your jaw and teeth.

You will be asked to remove any metallic objects (earrings, hair clips, necklaces, spectacles etc) near your head and neck to avoid interference with the scan. It is therefore advisable to leave any such items at home.

Scanning

CBCT’s are quick examinations and typically take only 5-10 minutes in total.

To help position your head correctly and minimize movement during the scan, you will be asked to gently bite down on a sterile mouth piece, and hold onto a pair of handles. Your radiographer will then ask you to remain still, and the scan will commence.

During the scan, multiple images will be taken as the arm of the CBCT machine rotates around your head. At no point will the machine make contact with your head, nor will you experience any pain.

Results

You will receive a CD copy of your scans at the conclusion of your appointment. You are welcome to wait for this to be printed or, should it be more convenient, arrange an alternative time to collect it. Once one of our specialist doctors (radiologist) has reviewed and assessed your scan, the report will be sent to your practitioner either electronically, or by fax.

Your results will be communicated to you by your dental practitioner. It is therefore strongly advised that following your scan you return to your dental professional to discuss your results and subsequent treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1Are CBCT’s painful?

No, CBCT’s cannot be felt and the machine will not come into contact with you during the scan.

2How much radiation will I be exposed to?

All X-Ray and CT machines (including CBCT machines) at Marina, are fitted with advanced low dose technology, which minimises the radiation dose of every scan for every patient. Marina is known and acknowledged for fostering a strong low dose culture, thereby further reducing exposure levels.

3Can I still have a CBCT if I’m pregnant?

Unborn babies are more sensitive to the risks associated with CT’s. It is therefore important that you inform our staff and your doctor if you are, or may be pregnant prior to your scan.

4Am I allowed to accompany my child during their scan?

If your assistance is required to help calm or keep your child still, we will supply you with a lead gown so you can accompany them during the procedure. However, in cases where you are pregnant or have other young children with you, you are asked to please bring an additional adult with you to assist. Unborn babies and young children are more susceptible to the effects of CT, thus Marina mandates avoiding any unnecessary exposure.

5Will the radiographer inform me of my results?

You will receive all findings from your scan from your referring practitioner. The responsibility of the radiographer is to perform and produce high quality images for the radiologist to interpret.

If you have any further questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact us on 1300 0 XRAYS