Dental CT Scan Birmingham
A dental CT scan is a 3D imaging scan of the jaws, sinuses and surrounding structures. At Birmingham CBCT & OPG Hub we use Cone Beam CT (CBCT) technology to provide high-quality dental CT scans for complex and full-arch cases. All scans are performed at 341 Birmingham Road, Great Barr, Birmingham B43 7AP.
What is a dental CT scan?
A dental CT scan is a 3D scan of the jaws using CBCT technology, with a larger field of view than a standard small-area CBCT. It can capture both jaws, sinuses and surrounding anatomy in a single scan, which is ideal for complex or full-arch treatment planning.
The scan produces a DICOM dataset that can be loaded into implant planning software and other dental tools. It allows your dentist to visualise bone volume, sinuses, nerves and any pathology in three dimensions.
When is a dental CT scan recommended?
A dental CT scan is typically requested for more complex cases where a small, localised CBCT or a simple OPG is not enough.
- Full-arch and full-mouth implant planning
- Assessment before sinus lifts and bone grafting
- Orthognathic and complex surgical planning
- Investigation of jaw cysts, lesions and pathology
- Multiple impacted teeth or complex impactions
- Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) overview in 3D
- Pre-operative planning for extensive restorative cases
- Review of previous surgery or trauma
Dental CT vs standard CBCT or OPG
A small field-of-view CBCT focuses on a single area, such as one implant site or a small region around a tooth. A dental CT scan uses a larger field of view to capture the whole jaw or both jaws when this is important for planning.
An OPG provides a 2D panoramic overview and is often a starting point for general assessment. Where more detailed 3D information is required, a CBCT or dental CT scan offers the additional information needed for safe decision-making.
If you are unsure which scan is most appropriate, we are happy to advise you or your dentist.
DICOM data, planning and reports
Dental CT scans are supplied as DICOM datasets that can be imported into most implant planning and dental software systems. We can also provide viewer software on request, so that the files can be reviewed without additional subscriptions.
Where requested, a radiology report can be arranged to support your treatment planning. We are also happy to provide dose and protocol information to help you maintain your own radiation paperwork and IRMER documentation.
Dental CT for full-arch implants
For multiple implants or full-arch solutions, a dental CT scan provides the full 3D view needed to plan implant positions, angulation and prosthetic space. It helps your dentist to assess bone height and width, sinus anatomy and nerve position across the whole jaw.
Complex surgical and wisdom tooth cases
Some cases, such as multiple impacted teeth, complex wisdom teeth or suspected pathology, benefit from a larger field of view. A dental CT scan helps the clinician to visualise important structures and plan surgery more confidently.
Dental CT Scan Birmingham – FAQs
How long does a dental CT scan appointment take?
The scan itself usually takes under a minute. With preparation and positioning, most appointments take around 10–15 minutes.
Is a dental CT scan safe?
Dental CT scans use X-rays, so there is some radiation exposure. We follow IRMER guidance and the ALARA principle (as low as reasonably achievable) to keep doses appropriate for the clinical question.
Do I need an OPG or CBCT first?
In many cases, an OPG or localised CBCT may be enough. Your dentist will normally decide which scan is required. If you attend without a referral, we can help guide you to the most suitable option.
Will my dentist get the scan files?
Yes. Your dentist will receive digital images and DICOM data, with viewing instructions. A radiology report can be provided where requested.
How much does a dental CT scan cost?
Our dental CT scan fees are listed on our prices page. Your dentist may discuss these with you before referring.
Arrange a dental CT scan in Birmingham
Patients can book online, and dentists can refer using our secure digital form. If you are unsure whether a dental CT, CBCT or OPG is most appropriate, please contact the team and we will be happy to advise.