CBCT (Cone Beam CT) Scan
Our CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scanner at BioHealth by Anne Swart Clinic in Sintra provides high-resolution 3D imaging of the teeth, jaws and surrounding structures. It supports accurate diagnosis and treatment planning in implant dentistry, endodontics, periodontal assessment, TMJ evaluation, sinus review and airway screening (when visible within the selected field of view).
From an integrative biological dentistry perspective, CBCT can also support assessment of jawbone health and chronic inflammatory patterns that may not be visible on 2D imaging.
What is a CBCT scan?
CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) is an advanced form of dental imaging that produces detailed three-dimensional images of your teeth, jawbone, nerve pathways and soft tissues in a single, quick scan. Unlike a traditional dental X-ray, which produces a flat 2D image, CBCT creates a complete 3D model that your dentist can rotate, zoom and examine from every angle.
The technology uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam that rotates around your head, capturing hundreds of images in a single pass. These images are then reconstructed by computer into a detailed 3D volume, giving your clinician a level of diagnostic clarity that is simply not possible with conventional radiography.
CBCT scanning is now considered the gold standard in diagnostic dental imaging worldwide and is available at our Sintra clinic for both direct patient bookings and external referrals.
CBCT vs traditional dental X-rays
| Traditional 2D X-ray | CBCT 3D Scan | |
|---|---|---|
| Image type | Flat, two-dimensional | Full three-dimensional volume |
| Diagnostic detail | Overlapping structures can obscure findings | Structures viewed individually from any angle |
| Scan time | Seconds | 10–20 seconds |
| Bone assessment | Limited | Detailed density and dimension analysis |
| Implant planning | Approximate | Precise measurement of bone height, width and nerve proximity |
| Hidden pathology | May be missed | Chronic infections, cysts and jawbone lesions more visible |
| Radiation | Very low | Low (significantly less than a hospital CT scan) |
For many routine dental checks a traditional X-ray is sufficient. However, when precise 3D information is needed — particularly for implant placement, complex root canal assessment, jawbone evaluation or biological dentistry diagnostics — CBCT provides a level of detail that 2D imaging cannot match.
Benefits of CBCT imaging
- Precise 3D visualisation — view teeth, bone and surrounding anatomy from every angle, with sub-millimetre accuracy
- Better diagnostic confidence — identify pathology, fractures, resorption or hidden infections that may not appear on conventional X-rays
- Accurate implant planning — measure available bone dimensions and proximity to nerves and sinuses before surgery
- Lower radiation than hospital CT — CBCT delivers a fraction of the radiation dose of a standard medical CT scan
- Fast and comfortable — the scan itself takes only 10–20 seconds, and the full appointment is typically under 15 minutes
- Non-invasive — no injections, no contrast agents, no discomfort
- Immediate digital results — DICOM files and key images are delivered by email, ready to share with your dentist or specialist
- Supports biological dentistry — 3D imaging can reveal chronic jawbone inflammation, sclerotic bone patterns and other findings relevant to an integrative approach
Who is it for?
- Patients booking directly for diagnostic imaging at our Sintra clinic
- Referring dentists/clinics who need CBCT imaging locally, without purchasing a scanner
Biological dentistry focus (when clinically indicated)
CBCT imaging can help:
- Identify biologically relevant jawbone pathologies related to root canal treatment, extraction sites, and chronic residual infection
- Understand jawbone sclerosis, hypodense lesions, and chronic silent inflammation patterns as expressions of impaired bone remodelling
- Evaluate potential oral–systemic health implications of persistent jawbone inflammation
- Utilise 3D CBCT imaging from an integrative biological dentistry perspective for improved diagnostic accuracy
What to expect during your CBCT scan
Before the scan No special preparation is required. You do not need to fast, and no sedation or anaesthesia is involved. Please remove any metal jewellery, glasses or hearing aids before the scan, as these can interfere with the image.
During the scan You will stand or sit comfortably while the CBCT scanner rotates around your head. The scan itself takes approximately 10–20 seconds. You will need to remain still during this time, but the process is completely painless and there is no enclosed space — the scanner is open on all sides.
After the scan There is no recovery time. You can return to your normal activities immediately. Your DICOM files and selected key images will be delivered by email, typically within 1–2 working days. If you have requested a detailed written report, this will be prepared and signed by a Dental Surgeon at our Sintra clinic.
What you receive (by email)
- DICOM file set (for your dentist/clinic)
- Selected key images (screenshots)
- If selected: a structured written report, signed by a Dental Surgeon (Médico Dentista) at Anne Swart Clinic
Pricing
| Service | Price |
|---|---|
| CBCT scan (DICOM + key images) | €75 |
| CBCT scan + detailed report (PT or EN) | €160 |
| Translation to other languages | Available on request (priced separately) |
Booking
Appointments are preferred to minimise waiting time. Walk-ins may be possible during opening hours, subject to availability.
To book or refer a patient, please contact us via our Contact page.
Our CBCT scanner is located at BioHealth by Anne Swart Clinic, Beloura Office Park, Sintra.
For referring clinicians
We accept external referrals for CBCT imaging with or without a detailed report. Please include:
- Clinical question / indication
- Region of interest (e.g., maxilla/mandible; TMJ; sinuses; airway if required)
- Relevant history (implants, endodontics, previous surgery, symptoms)
Frequently asked questions
How long does a CBCT scan take? The scan itself takes only 10–20 seconds. Including positioning and preparation, the full appointment is typically under 15 minutes.
Is a CBCT scan safe? Yes. While CBCT does use X-rays, the radiation dose is significantly lower than a standard hospital CT scan and only slightly higher than a traditional panoramic dental X-ray. The scan is only performed when clinically justified, following the principle of keeping radiation exposure as low as reasonably achievable (ALARA).
Do I need a referral to book a CBCT scan? No. You can book directly as a patient at our Sintra clinic. We also accept referrals from external dentists and clinics.
How is CBCT used in biological dentistry? CBCT allows dentists practising biological and integrative dentistry to identify chronic jawbone pathology — such as residual infections at old extraction sites, sclerotic bone and areas of silent inflammation — that are often invisible on conventional 2D X-rays. This supports a more thorough, whole-body approach to dental diagnosis and treatment planning.
Can I get a CBCT scan if I am not a patient at the clinic? Yes. Our CBCT imaging service in Sintra is open to all patients and to external referrals. You will receive your DICOM files and key images by email, which you can share with your own dentist or specialist.
What is the difference between CBCT and a hospital CT scan? Both produce 3D images, but CBCT is specifically designed for the dental and maxillofacial region. It uses a cone-shaped beam rather than a fan beam, resulting in significantly lower radiation, faster scan times and higher resolution for hard-tissue structures like teeth and bone.
Important notes (scope & limitations)
CBCT provides excellent hard-tissue detail but has limitations for soft-tissue assessment. Findings should be correlated clinically.
If selected, the report is a dental clinical interpretation of CBCT findings within the acquired field of view and is signed by a Dental Surgeon (Médico Dentista).
Availability
