3D scan or Cone beam computed tomography (or CBCT) is a medical imaging technique consisting of X-ray computed tomography where the X-rays are divergent, forming a cone.

ct 1CBCT has become increasingly important in treatment planning and diagnosis in implant dentistry, among other things. Also useful in the fields of endodontics and orthodontics, as well.

During a CBCT scan, the scanner rotates around the patient’s head, obtaining up to nearly 600 distinct images. The scanning software collects the data and reconstructs it, producing what is termed a digital volume composed of three dimensional voxels of anatomical data that can then be manipulated and visualized with specialized software.