CBCT Dental Scan
CBCT Dental Scan in Basel
In brief: CBCT Dental Scan
CBCT (cone beam computed tomography) is a 3D dental X-ray technique used for selected diagnostic questions, for example implant planning, complex endodontic anatomy or assessment of structures that cannot be evaluated adequately on 2D images. In Basel, we use CBCT only when there is a clinical indication. We explain the expected benefit, limitations and radiation considerations so that the scan supports treatment planning and risk assessment appropriately.
We are members of the SGDMFR and undertake continuing education in dental and maxillofacial radiology.https://www.sgdmfr.ch/
Potential Benefits and Treatment Goals
Three-dimensional anatomical information:
visualisation of structures such as nerves, roots, bone, cystic lesions and other relevant anatomy.
Treatment planning:
for selected implant, wisdom-tooth, endodontic and sinus-related questions, among others.
Targeted field of view:
A small or larger field of view is selected according to the clinical question, using the lowest radiation exposure that is reasonably achievable for the required diagnostic information.
Available for immediate review:
3D views can be discussed directly in the practice after appropriate interpretation.
When can a CBCT scan be useful?
Implant planning (bone dimensions and neighbouring anatomical structures)
Wisdom teeth (relationship to the mandibular canal or other relevant anatomy)
for selected questions involving complex canal anatomy, resorption, fractures or periapical findings
Maxillary sinus (anatomy, pathology and augmentation planning)
Trauma/pathology (fractures, cystic lesions and resorptive processes)
Temporomandibular joint or occlusal assessment in selected cases
How the scan is performed
Indication & information – we define the clinical question and select the appropriate field of view (FOV).
Scan, usually completed within seconds – you remain still while the image is acquired; the procedure itself is non-invasive.
3D assessment & discussion – findings can be reviewed on screen and DICOM data can be exported for referring clinicians where required.
Radiation protection and safety
: the scan should use the smallest field of view and exposure settings that still provide the diagnostic information required.
Small FOV for a local question; larger FOV only when the diagnostic indication requires it.
During pregnancy, radiographic imaging is used only when clinically justified, with the indication and timing assessed individually.
Modern CBCT systems offer dose-optimised protocols, but radiation exposure is not zero and varies with the device, field of view and acquisition settings.
Costs and Individual Treatment Planning
The fee depends on the field of view, diagnostic question and reporting time. You receive a transparent cost estimate in advance.
Small FOV (e.g. single-tooth or limited region): approx. CHF 150–280
Large FOV (both jaws / maxilla and mandible): approx. CHF 400–450
DICOM/viewer export: CHF 20, if required
For implant cases, CBCT data can be combined with digital implant planning and, where indicated, a surgical guide. This can streamline the workflow and support planned implant positioning.
Scientific Context
CBCT provides three-dimensional information on bone volume and nearby anatomical structures and can improve pre-operative planning when 2D imaging is insufficient. Clinical benefit depends on appropriate indication and how the information is used.
Bornstein MM. et al. (2014). Clin Oral Implants Res 25(9): 1006–1013. PMID: 23889910
CBCT dose varies substantially between devices, fields of view and exposure protocols. Dose-optimised small-field examinations can be relatively low, whereas larger or higher-resolution protocols can be considerably higher; there is no single fixed comparison with medical CT.
Pauwels R. et al. (2022). Dentomaxillofac Radiol 51(4): 20210394. PMID: 35148749
CBCT can reveal selected periapical lesions, resorptions, fractures or anatomical details that may not be visible on conventional 2D radiographs, particularly in complex cases. It should not be used routinely when 2D imaging answers the clinical question.
Patel S. et al. (2019). Int Endod J 52(10): 1358–1372. PMID: 31231931
3D imaging can help assess selected vertical bony defects or furcation anatomy when the additional information is relevant to treatment planning.
Walter C. et al. (2020). J Periodontol 91(S1): S43–S52. PMID: 32056320
CBCT depicts osseous joint structures and degenerative bony changes; MRI remains the preferred modality for the articular disc and other soft tissues.
Honey OB. et al. (2012). Oral Surg Oral Med Oral Pathol Oral Radiol 114(1): 112–121. PMID: 22727263
Frequently asked questions
Does a CBCT scan hurt?
No. The scan is non-invasive; you simply need to remain still for the brief acquisition.
Is the radiation dose high?
There is no single radiation dose for dental CBCT. Dose varies substantially with the device, field of view, resolution and protocol. We therefore select the smallest field and lowest exposure that provide the diagnostic information required; comparisons with a flight or with medical CT are only meaningful for a specific protocol.
Can my dentist or referring clinician receive the data?
Yes. We can provide DICOM data and, where appropriate, a radiological report or documented findings.
Do I need CBCT for every dental implant?
Not always. CBCT is used when three-dimensional information is expected to change diagnosis or treatment planning, for example to assess anatomy relevant to implant positioning, nerves or the maxillary sinus.
Can I obtain a copy of my CBCT data?
Yes. The DICOM data can be provided on an appropriate medium or transferred securely where technically available.
Can CBCT be used for children or during pregnancy?
Only when the expected diagnostic benefit justifies the exposure. In children, protocols should be particularly dose-conscious; during pregnancy, the indication is assessed carefully. Conventional 2D imaging may be sufficient for many dental questions.
Summary
CBCT imaging at our practice in Basel is performed only after a clear indication, with an appropriately selected field of view and a structured discussion of the findings. Contact us to arrange an assessment if 3D imaging may be relevant to your treatment.
Diagnostics and Planning
Diagnostics should answer a specific clinical question. Clinical findings, photographs, scans and radiographs are therefore combined according to the indication rather than used routinely. The result supports an understandable diagnosis, comparison of alternatives and transparent treatment planning.
Limitations, Risks and Alternatives
Every diagnostic method has limitations. Imaging does not replace the clinical examination, and additional images are useful only when they can improve a specific clinical decision. Findings are therefore interpreted together with symptoms, the clinical examination and previous imaging.
CBCT Dental Scan in Basel: experience and clinical perspective
At Fachzahnarztpraxis Dr. Gasser in Basel, diagnostics are used to support structured clinical decision-making. Dr Thomas Gasser is a specialist in reconstructive dentistry (SSRD), holds an MAS in Oral Implantology (UZH) and is a member of the SGDMFR. Digital methods are used where they meaningfully complement clinical assessment and planning.More about Dr Thomas Gasser’s training and qualifications.
Related Topics on Our Website
Depending on the individual situation, Panoramic Dental X-Ray, Guided Implant Surgery or Dental Implants may also be relevant. You can find further dental services in Basel in our treatment overview.
Literature and Scientific Context
PubMed PMID 40280537 – Cone beam computed tomography in dentistry: Clinical recommendations and indication-specific features
PubMed PMID 41581943 – American Dental Association and American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology patient selection for dental radiography and cone-beam computed tomography: Clinical recommendations
The selected literature provides scientific context. Which findings are relevant to a specific treatment depends on the diagnosis, the starting situation, individual risks and the treatment goals agreed together.
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