Before a retreatment
Hidden canals, root fractures, the size of apical lesions, old post restorations — before root canal retreatment we see all of it in 3D.
10 — Three-dimensional diagnostics
CBCT — 3D imaging
in Kiel.
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) right here in our practice. High-precision three-dimensional imaging for predictable results and maximum safety — at a minimal radiation dose.
What is it?
Seeing
what was previously invisible.
CBCT stands for Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) — known in German as Digitale Volumentomographie (DVT) and often simply called „3D imaging“. It is a modern three-dimensional imaging technique developed specifically for dentistry and oral and maxillofacial surgery.
Unlike conventional 2D radiographs, CBCT provides a complete 3D data set: bone, roots, adjacent structures, canals, resorption, fractures — all of it displayable in any sectional plane.
In endodontics, for many clinical questions CBCT is simply indispensable. It turns „probably“ into „certainly“ — and enables treatment planning that would not be possible without 3D data.
When is it useful?
Indications
in endodontics.
We only ever use CBCT on a justifying indication — that is, only when two-dimensional imaging is not sufficient and the 3D information meaningfully changes the treatment.
Before an apicoectomy
Exact position relative to adjacent structures (nerve, maxillary sinus), anatomy of the root apex, size of the lesion — mandatory diagnostics before every apicoectomy.
Root resorption
Often impossible to assess on a 2D image. Without CBCT, a sound treatment decision in cases of resorption is barely possible.
Root fractures
Vertical root fractures are often invisible in 2D — on CBCT they can usually be diagnosed clearly.
Unclear source of pain
Persistent pain without a clinical diagnosis: CBCT clarifies hidden findings — micro-perforations, atypical anatomy, overlooked accessory canals.
Dental trauma
After a fall or accident — root fractures, luxations, avulsions and displacements become clearly visible on the 3D image.
Safety & radiation
Low dose
and justified.
CBCT scanners for dentistry have made enormous progress in recent years. The radiation dose today is far below that of a medical CT scan.
Radiation dose
A CBCT scan of the jaw region typically involves an effective dose of 30–100 µSv — comparable to 2–5 panoramic radiographs or roughly one week of natural background radiation. Compared with a medical CT scan (1,000–2,000 µSv), the dose is lower by a factor of 10–50.
Justifying indication
For every CBCT scan we assess, in line with the German Radiation Protection Ordinance (Strahlenschutzverordnung): is the scan necessary? Does it change the treatment? No scan without a clear indication.
Reduced volume (FOV)
We scan only the area that is genuinely relevant (field of view, often just 4–6 cm in diameter). This considerably reduces the radiation dose compared with a full-jaw scan.
High resolution
Voxel size down to 75 µm — the finest structures such as micro-fractures, lateral canals and resorbed areas of the root become visible.
How it works
The examination
in 5 minutes.
01
Checking the indication
We assess whether CBCT is necessary and justified for your particular question — no routine scans.
02
Information and consent
You receive information on the procedure, the radiation dose and the benefit — followed by written consent.
03
Positioning
An upright, relaxed position in the scanner. A bite block provides stability.
04
The scan
A single 360° rotation around the head — lasting 15–20 seconds. All you have to do is stand still.
05
Reconstruction
The computer calculates the 3D volume — available within a few minutes.
06
Reporting the findings
We go through the images with you directly — explained in plain language, with concrete consequences for the treatment.
15sec
The scan
Just 15–20 seconds of scanning time — the whole examination takes about 5 minutes.
75µm
Resolution
High-precision voxel size — the finest structures become visible.
50× lower
vs. medical CT
Depending on the indication, the radiation dose is 10–50× lower than with a medical CT scan.
Costs
What does
a CBCT scan cost?
Statutory health insurance does notcover CBCT scans. Patients with private health insurance are generally reimbursed in full under GOÄ/GOZ — including as part of endodontic treatment.
Guide prices
- CBCT scan (single tooth / small FOV): approx. €100–180
- CBCT scan (several teeth / larger FOV): approx. €150–250
- Incl. reporting & consultation: already included
The costs are discussed transparently before the scan. For some treatments CBCT is mandatory — we explain why.
FAQ
Answers
on CBCT diagnostics.
What patients ask most often.
What is a CBCT scan?
CBCT stands for Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) — known in German as Digitale Volumentomographie (DVT) and often simply called „3D imaging“. It is a modern three-dimensional imaging technique developed specifically for dentistry.
It provides high-resolution 3D data at a radiation dose that is considerably lower than that of a medical CT scan.
How high is the radiation dose?
A CBCT scan of the jaw region typically involves an effective dose of 30–100 µSv — comparable to:
- 2–5 panoramic radiographs
- roughly one week of natural background radiation
- a four-hour flight at cruising altitude
For comparison: a medical CT scan of the head and neck region is in the range of 1,000–2,000 µSv — a factor of 10–50 higher.
When is a CBCT scan useful?
Above all in the following situations:
- Before every root canal retreatment
- Before an apicoectomy
- Where there is suspicion of root resorption or perforation
- Where a vertical root fracture is suspected
- Where the cause of pain is unclear despite an unremarkable 2D finding
- In the aftermath of trauma
- With anatomically difficult findings
Does it hurt? How does the examination work?
Pain-free and straightforward. You stand upright in the scanner and bite on a bite block. A single 360° rotation around the head takes 15–20 seconds. In total you are in the CBCT unit for about 5 minutes. No preparation, no after-effects.
What does a CBCT scan cost?
Depending on its extent, a CBCT scan costs €100–250. Statutory health insurance does not cover CBCT; patients with private health insurance are generally reimbursed in full under GOÄ/GOZ.
Can I have a CBCT scan without treatment?
No. We only carry out CBCT scans where there is a justifying indication — that is, when the information meaningfully changes the diagnosis and treatment. This is a legal requirement (German Radiation Protection Ordinance, Strahlenschutzverordnung) and matches our own standard for radiation-conscious practice.
Do I need a referral?
No. You can book an appointment directly. If possible, please bring recent 2D radiographs with you — they usually allow us to assess a great deal already and to decide whether a CBCT scan is necessary.
More treatments
CBCT is part of
…
… virtually every demanding endodontic treatment. The most common applications:
Retreatment
Root canal retreatment
Mandatory before every retreatment — hidden canals & findings.
Find out more Surgeryapicoectomy
Before every apicoectomy — position relative to adjacent structures, surgical planning.
Find out more Specialroot resorption
Often impossible to assess on a 2D image — no treatment without CBCT.
Find out more RepairRoot perforation
Precise localisation and sizing.
Find out moreBook
CBCT recommended?
Right here in our practice.
CBCT diagnostics on site in our practice — no referral to a radiologist needed.