What to Expect During Your Dental CBCT Scan
By Dr. 1, [Full Name], [Qualification] · Reviewed 12 August 2026
A dental CBCT scan is a quick, painless imaging appointment that takes a 3D picture of your jaw, teeth and nerve pathways — most patients are in and out within 15 minutes, with no needles, no contrast dye, and nothing that touches your mouth beyond a chin rest.
Before you arrive
No fasting or special preparation is needed. Remove earrings, glasses, hairpins and any removable dental appliances such as retainers or dentures before the scan — anything metal can create artifacts on the image. If you're referred by your dentist, bring their referral note or let our front desk know which tooth or area is being investigated.
During the scan
You'll stand or sit in the scanner with your chin resting on a support and, in most units, a strap gently stabilizing your head so the image stays sharp. The scanner arm rotates around your head once — you won't feel anything, and the whole rotation takes under a minute. You'll be asked to stay very still and hold your breath briefly if instructed, similar to a regular X-ray.
After the scan
There's no recovery time — you can drive, eat, and go about your day immediately. Our radiologist reviews the 3D reconstruction and prepares a written report with annotated images, which is sent to your referring dentist within 24 hours. If you booked directly, we'll let you know once it's ready.
Is it safe?
Yes. Our CBCT units are calibrated to ALARA (as low as reasonably achievable) dose protocols, and the field of view is sized to the specific area being investigated rather than scanning more than necessary — keeping radiation exposure well within safe limits for routine and repeat imaging.
Related: Learn more about our 3D CBCT scan service · Read our full FAQ