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Dentistry vocabulary · Examination and X-rays

CBCT

Meaning in dentistry, with examples

abbreviationCommon term

In dentistry, CBCT means: Short for cone beam computed tomography: a 3D scan of the teeth and jaws that shows bone height and width, nerve canals and roots in detail.

In Turkish: KIBT, konik ışınlı bilgisayarlı tomografi, dental tomografi

How it is used

Used for implant planning, impacted teeth, complex root canal anatomy and lesions. It usually gives a higher radiation dose than ordinary dental X-rays, so it is taken only when it adds useful information. People say 'a CBCT scan'.

Example sentences

  1. We need a CBCT scan to check the distance between the implant site and the nerve.

  2. The CBCT showed a fourth canal in the upper molar.

Common collocations

  • CBCT scan
  • small field of view CBCT
  • CBCT imaging
  • order a CBCT
  • panoramic X-rayA single wide X-ray that shows both jaws, all the teeth and nearby structures such as the jaw joints and sinuses. The machine moves around the patient's head.
  • dental implantA small screw, usually made of titanium, placed in the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once it has fused with the bone, it supports a crown, bridge or denture.
  • impactedDescribes a tooth that cannot come through into its normal position because bone, gum or another tooth is in the way. Wisdom teeth and upper canines are most often affected.
  • X-rayAn image of the teeth and bone made with a small dose of radiation. It shows problems the eye cannot see, such as decay between teeth, infection at a root tip or bone loss.

More terms: Examination and X-rays

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This page explains English vocabulary for learners. It is not medical advice.