What Is a CT Dental Scan?
Whether you're preparing for a dental implant, facing a tooth extraction, or investigating unexplained symptoms, it's important that your oral surgery team has a full, three-dimensional view of what's happening beneath the surface. A CT scan gives our team at Bird and Johnson Oral Surgery the clarity we need to evaluate your teeth, bone, nerves, and sinuses, all in one fast, comfortable appointment. Dr. Jay Johnson uses state-of-the-art cone-beam CT imaging to build a detailed, 360-degree model of your oral anatomy. This advanced scan goes far beyond a traditional dental x-ray, offering precise insights that our team uses to guide your diagnosis, reduce the risk of complications, and personalize your oral surgery plan. Whether you're dealing with impacted teeth, bone loss, or facial discomfort, a CT scan helps us determine the best approach for your oral health. Learn more about how we use state-of-the-art technology to ensure a more precise, comfortable experience by scheduling a consultation with our oral surgery team in Cocoa, FL.
How Does an Oral CT Scan Work?
Your CT scan will take place in our office and usually takes less than 10 minutes from start to finish. Before starting, we may ask you to remove any metal items from your head and neck (such as earrings, glasses, or hair accessories). You will sit or stand still while the cone-beam CT scanner rotates around your head. As the scanner moves, it captures hundreds of images from multiple angles, which are then compiled into a single 3D model of your teeth, jaw, and surrounding structures. The process is painless, quiet, and completely noninvasive — no injections or uncomfortable sensors. Once the scan is complete, Dr. Johnson will review the images with you and explain any findings in detail. From there, we'll discuss the next steps and what you can expect during and after your treatment.
What Are the Benefits of a Dental Cone-Beam CT Scan?
At Bird and Johnson Oral Surgery, we use groundbreaking dental imaging technology to improve diagnosis, enhance safety, and give our team the information we need to plan your oral surgery with greater accuracy, especially in complex cases. Cone-beam CT scanning is a valuable tool in both diagnosing problems and planning safe, successful outcomes, providing benefits that include:
- Provides a highly detailed, 3D image of your oral and facial anatomy
- Helps detect problems that standard x-rays might miss
- Allows for safer, more accurate surgical planning
- Reduces the risk of complications by identifying nearby nerves, roots, and sinuses
- Short, comfortable, in-office scan with no discomfort or downtime
Bird and Johnson Oral Surgery Reviews
If I have to do it I want Dr Johnson doing it! Thank you to his office crew, nurses & Dr Johnson.
Dr Jay Johnson is a wonderful doctor, as well as a wonderful person! His staff treated me wonderfully. 5 stars!
Edward Wagner had a very comfortable procedure due to a wonderful surgeon, Dr. Johnson and staff. Thank you so much.
Doctor and staff were all excellent.
Most comfortable and efficient dental experience I've ever had. Best around
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Am I A Candidate For A CT Scan?
A CT scan may be recommended if you are preparing for a complex procedure like dental implant placement or wisdom tooth extraction, as it helps our team visualize the exact position of nerves and bone. It is also an invaluable tool for diagnosing issues that aren't visible on a standard X-ray. If you are experiencing unexplained facial pain or have suffered a facial injury, a CT scan can provide the detailed images needed for an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. Ultimately, any patient requiring a detailed view of their oral and maxillofacial structures is an excellent candidate for this advanced imaging technology.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much radiation do you get during a cone beam CT scan for oral imaging?
A cone beam CT scan, or CBCT, uses a relatively low dose of radiation, especially when compared to a medical CT scan performed in a hospital setting. In many cases, the exposure is similar to or only slightly higher than a full set of traditional dental X-rays, depending on the size of the area being evaluated. The technology is specifically designed for dental and oral structures, which allows the beam to stay focused and limits unnecessary exposure. We recommend CBCT imaging only when the additional detail truly benefits your diagnosis or treatment planning, so you can feel confident it’s being used thoughtfully and appropriately.
Do you have to take your jewelry off for a CBCT scan?
Yes, you will usually be asked to remove jewelry and accessories from the head and neck area before your CBCT scan. Earrings, necklaces, facial piercings, glasses, and even certain hair clips can create shadows or distortions in the image. Removing them helps us capture the clearest, most accurate scan possible. The process is quick, and our team will guide you through it so everything feels simple and streamlined.
Does oral cancer show up on a cone beam CT scan?
A CBCT scan can reveal changes in the jawbone that may be associated with certain advanced oral conditions. However, it is not the primary tool used to diagnose oral cancer, especially in its early stages. Soft tissue changes are best evaluated through a comprehensive clinical exam and, if necessary, a biopsy. If we ever notice anything that warrants further evaluation, we will walk you through the next steps clearly and promptly so nothing is left uncertain.
Advanced Planning for Better Results
When it comes to planning oral surgery or implant treatment, seeing the full picture matters. At Bird and Johnson Oral Surgery, our in-office CT scan technology allows our team to evaluate your needs with clarity, accuracy, and care. If you're preparing for treatment or want a more in-depth diagnosis, schedule a consultation with Dr. Johnson in Cocoa, FL today to take the first step toward a safer, more confident outcome.