3D Dental Imaging (CBCT) — On-Site at Our Toronto Clinic
A small field-of-view 3D scan helps us plan implants and assess complex cases. We use it only when 2D x-rays can't give us the answer.
Think 3D, not flat.
Traditional dental x-rays are 2D — teeth appear as overlapping shadows. CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) takes a 3D scan of a focused area of your mouth. We use it for the cases where 2D imaging can't give us a clear answer — usually implant planning, complex root canals, or a single impacted tooth.
When we might recommend a CBCT
Permitted small-FOV indications only. We do NOT use CBCT for TMJ, sleep apnea, airway, or full-craniofacial imaging.
Single-tooth or short-span implant planning
Complex root-canal anatomy that can't be assessed on 2D
A single impacted tooth (e.g., canine or third molar)
A localized supernumerary tooth in a child
A localized lesion or pathology identified on 2D x-ray
We don't take a CBCT unless we need it.
Every CBCT is reviewed for clinical justification before we take it. If a regular dental x-ray (PA, bitewing, or panoramic) can answer the question, we use that instead. The ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) means we use the smallest field of view and lowest exposure that will give us a diagnostic image. For children, we use ALADA (As Low As Diagnostically Acceptable).
How much radiation is involved.
A focused CBCT in our clinic typically delivers an effective dose in the range of 20–80 microsieverts — about 1–3 days of natural background radiation in Canada. This is higher than a single dental x-ray (PA or bitewing) but lower than a hospital medical CT. We use the lowest exposure setting that gives a diagnostic image.
What happens during the scan
Remove metal
Jewelry, glasses, hairpins removed.
Positioning
You sit or stand still in the scanner with a chin rest.
Scan
The scanner rotates around your head for 14–30 seconds.
Review
We review the 3D images with you on screen and explain what we see.
Report
A written report is added to your chart.
Compliance
You get a written report — every time.
For every CBCT, your dentist prepares a written interpretation report that becomes part of your dental chart. If there is anything outside our area of expertise — for example, an incidental finding in a sinus or jaw structure — we will refer the scan to an oral & maxillofacial radiologist or your physician for further review. You will be told about any findings that affect your care.
Informed consent before every scan.
Before we take a CBCT, we explain the reason for the scan, the radiation dose, the alternatives (including 2D imaging or no imaging), the possibility of incidental findings, and your right to ask questions or decline. You sign a CBCT-specific consent form. You may request a copy of your scan and report at any time.
For children.
When a 2D x-ray cannot answer the clinical question — for example, an impacted canine or extra tooth — we may recommend a small, focused 3D scan, using the smallest field of view and lowest exposure that will give us the answer (ALADA principle). Pediatric CBCT is reserved for specific indications, not routine use.
Equipment
Our CBCT scanner
Our scanner is a small field-of-view (DA) CBCT, suitable for focused dental imaging. Our team holds the RCDSO authorizations required to prescribe and interpret these scans. Scanner model · pending verification.
Linked services that may involve CBCT
For clinicians
Referring a patient for CBCT?
We accept CBCT referrals from dentists and physicians — focused scans with a written report, then your patient returns to you. Your patient stays yours.
Professional referral form →Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Still have a question? Our team is happy to help over the phone.
(416) 483-0000Why are you taking a CBCT instead of a regular x-ray?
CBCT is used only when a 2D x-ray (PA, bitewing, or panoramic) cannot give us the information we need to plan your care. For an implant, for example, we need to know exactly how much bone there is, where the nerve canal sits, and how close the sinus is — none of which a flat x-ray can show. If a 2D image is enough, we use it. CBCT is reserved for specific cases.
How much radiation am I exposed to?
A focused CBCT in our clinic typically delivers an effective dose of 20–80 microsieverts — roughly 1–3 days of natural background radiation in Canada. This is higher than a single dental PA or bitewing, but significantly lower than a hospital medical CT. We follow the ALARA principle: lowest exposure that gives us a diagnostic image.
Who interprets the scan, and do I get a report?
Your dentist interprets the scan for the clinical question they prescribed it for. A written interpretation report is added to your chart for every CBCT. If there are findings outside our area of expertise, we refer the scan to an oral & maxillofacial radiologist or your physician. You will always be informed of any findings that affect your care. You may request a copy of your scan and report at any time.
Is CBCT safe for children?
Yes, when it's used only for cases where a 2D x-ray cannot answer the clinical question — typically impacted canines, supernumerary teeth, or complex anomalies. For children we use the smallest field of view and the lowest exposure (the ALADA principle). We do not perform routine CBCT for children. Your child's dentist will discuss the reason for the scan and answer any questions before consent is given.
Will my insurance cover the CBCT?
Many extended health insurance plans cover CBCT when it is clinically necessary. We submit a pre-treatment estimate to your insurer before the scan. Without insurance, the cost depends on the scan area and ranges from approximately $250–450.