Cone Beam CT Scanning in Bedford, NH
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A dental cone beam CT scan (CBCT) is a specialized type of 3D dental X-ray that uses a cone-shaped beam of radiation to capture detailed, high-resolution images of the teeth, jawbone, nerves, sinuses, and soft tissues in a single rotation around the patient's head. Unlike traditional 2D dental X-rays, a CBCT scan produces a full three-dimensional model of the oral and facial anatomy — allowing for far more precise diagnosis and treatment planning, especially for dental implants, jaw bone grafting, and complex restorative cases.
At Bedford Center for Prosthodontics, Dr. Paul Connolly uses advanced cone beam CT imaging to evaluate bone density, identify anatomical structures, and digitally plan every step of complex procedures before they begin.
How Does a Cone Beam CT Scan Work?
A cone beam CT scanner rotates once around the patient's head, capturing hundreds of 2D images in roughly 20 seconds. Specialized software then reconstructs those images into a complete 3D model that can be viewed and measured from any angle. The result is a diagnostic-grade view of:
- Tooth position and root structure
- Jawbone height, width, and density
- Nerve pathways (especially the inferior alveolar nerve)
- Sinus location and anatomy
- TMJ (temporomandibular joint) structure
- Airway and soft tissue relationships
Because the cone beam scanner uses a focused beam designed specifically for the oral and maxillofacial region, it delivers significantly less radiation than a traditional medical CT scan while producing images with greater detail for dental purposes.
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What Is a Dental Cone Beam Scan Used For?
Cone beam CT scans are used whenever 2D X-rays cannot provide the level of detail needed for safe, predictable treatment. At our Bedford, NH practice, CBCT is essential for:
Dental Implant Planning
CBCT imaging allows Dr. Connolly to assess bone volume and density, identify nerve and sinus positions, and plan the exact angle and depth of each implant before surgery. This data is also used to design custom surgical guides for precise placement.
Full Arch Restorations (All-on-4 and All-on-6)
For full arch implant cases like All-on-4 and All-on-6, CBCT is critical for mapping bone anatomy across the entire jaw and designing the surgical guide used during placement.
Jaw Bone Grafting Evaluation
When bone loss is present, CBCT precisely measures how much bone is missing and where grafting is needed to support future implants.
Complex Tooth Extractions
3D imaging helps Dr. Connolly visualize impacted teeth, curved roots, and their proximity to nerves and sinuses before extraction.
TMJ Diagnosis
CBCT reveals the bony anatomy of the temporomandibular joint, helping diagnose causes of jaw pain, clicking, and limited movement.
Endodontic and Restorative Cases
3D imaging supports accurate diagnosis of root fractures, canal anatomy, and the structural integrity of teeth under consideration for crowns, bridges, or full-mouth rehabilitation.
Is a Dental Cone Beam Scan Safe?
Yes. While any X-ray involves some exposure to ionizing radiation, cone beam CT scans use a low-dose, targeted beam — delivering significantly less radiation than a traditional medical CT scan of the head. A single dental CBCT typically exposes a patient to roughly the same amount of background radiation they would naturally encounter over several days. The diagnostic benefit — especially for implant and surgical planning — substantially outweighs the minimal exposure.
Dr. Connolly only recommends CBCT imaging when the clinical benefit justifies it, following the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) for radiation exposure.
What to Expect During a CBCT Scan at Our Bedford Office
A dental cone beam scan is quick, painless, and completely non-invasive:
- You'll be positioned standing or seated, depending on the scanner.
- The scanner rotates around your head once — typically in under 30 seconds.
- You remain still and breathe normally throughout the scan.
- Images are available for review within minutes.
There is no injection, no contrast dye, and no recovery time. Many patients are surprised by how fast and comfortable the process is compared to traditional medical imaging.
Why Patients Choose CBCT Imaging at Our Bedford Practice
Cone beam CT scanners are increasingly available across general dental practices in New Hampshire. What sets Bedford Center for Prosthodontics apart is not just the technology itself — it is how the scan data is interpreted, applied, and integrated into a complete treatment plan.
Specialist Interpretation, Not Just a Scan
A CBCT scan is only as valuable as the clinician interpreting it. As a board-certified prosthodontist, Dr. Paul Connolly completed three additional years of residency training focused specifically on the diagnosis and restoration of complex dental cases. That training shapes how he reads CBCT data — looking beyond bone volume to evaluate occlusion, soft tissue architecture, sinus relationships, and prosthetic feasibility before treatment begins.
Integrated With Every Step of Care
At our Bedford office, CBCT is not an isolated imaging service. It is woven directly into the digital workflow that includes:
- RayFace 3D facial scanning — for aesthetic and prosthetic planning that aligns implants with your unique facial proportions
- Custom surgical guide design — built from your CBCT data for precise implant placement
- Digital impressions — for restoration design that matches the surgical plan
- Same-day treatment planning consultations — review your scan with Dr. Connolly during the same visit
Faster Answers for Patients Considering Complex Treatment
For patients evaluating dental implants, All-on-4 or All-on-6 full arch restoration, or jaw bone grafting, CBCT imaging often determines candidacy, timeline, and total treatment cost. Having that scan reviewed by a specialist on the same day means fewer return visits, faster answers, and a clearer path forward.
Schedule Your CBCT Evaluation
If you are considering dental implants, experiencing unexplained jaw pain, or have been told elsewhere that you may not have enough bone for implants, a specialist-interpreted CBCT scan can clarify your options. Call 603-625-6456 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation at our South River Road office in Bedford, NH.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Dental Cone Beam Scans
What is a CBCT scan?
A CBCT scan, or cone beam computed tomography scan, is a specialized 3D dental X-ray that uses a cone-shaped beam to capture detailed images of the teeth, jaw, nerves, sinuses, and soft tissues in a single rotation around the head. It produces a full three-dimensional model used for precise dental treatment planning.
What does CBCT stand for?
CBCT stands for Cone Beam Computed Tomography. The name refers to the cone-shaped X-ray beam the scanner uses, which distinguishes it from the fan-shaped beam used in traditional medical CT scanners. CBCT is specifically designed for imaging the teeth, jaws, and surrounding facial structures.
What is a CBCT scan used for in dentistry?
A CBCT scan is used for dental implant planning, full arch restoration design, jaw bone grafting evaluation, complex extractions, TMJ diagnosis, and endodontic or restorative cases where 3D imaging is needed. It reveals anatomical detail — like bone density and nerve location — that 2D X-rays cannot show.
How long does a CBCT scan take?
A CBCT scan itself takes approximately 20 to 40 seconds. Including positioning and image review, the entire appointment typically takes less than 15 minutes. The scan is quick, painless, and completely non-invasive — there are no injections, no contrast dye, and no recovery time required.
How much radiation is in a dental CBCT scan?
A typical dental CBCT delivers between 30 and 200 microsieverts of radiation, depending on the field of view captured. By comparison, a traditional medical head CT delivers around 2,000 microsieverts. The exposure is also less than what most people experience during a single cross-country flight.
Is a CBCT scan safe?
Yes. CBCT scans use a low-dose, targeted X-ray beam that delivers significantly less radiation than a traditional medical CT scan. At Bedford Center for Prosthodontics, CBCT is only recommended when the clinical benefit justifies the exposure, following the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable).
What is the difference between CBCT and a regular dental X-ray?
A regular dental X-ray produces a flat 2D image of teeth and some surrounding bone. A CBCT scan produces a complete 3D model that can be rotated, sectioned, and measured. CBCT reveals anatomical detail — like bone volume, nerve position, and sinus relationships — that 2D X-rays cannot show.
Does insurance cover a dental CBCT scan?
Coverage varies by insurance plan. CBCT scans ordered for medically necessary purposes — such as implant planning, surgical guidance, or TMJ diagnosis — are frequently covered at least in part. Our team verifies your benefits before the scan and provides transparent pricing during your consultation.
Can a CBCT scan detect tumors or cysts?
Yes. Because CBCT visualizes bone and soft tissue in three dimensions, it can reveal cysts, tumors, and other pathologies that may not be visible on traditional X-rays. If anything unusual is detected during your scan, Dr. Connolly will discuss the findings and recommend next steps with you.
Can I get a CBCT scan if I am pregnant?
As a general rule, dental imaging including CBCT is avoided during pregnancy unless there is an urgent clinical need. Always inform our team if you are or may be pregnant before any dental imaging. We will discuss your options and reschedule when appropriate to ensure both your and your baby's safety.
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