← All explanationsCone beam CT (CBCT / DVT)

When can a three-dimensional X-ray help?

Cone beam CT, known as DVT in German, produces three-dimensional X-ray images of teeth and bony structures. It may be useful for selected questions when additional information beyond conventional images is needed.

For dental trainees & teams
SMILE meets DESIGN
Medical teaching illustration: Several views form a volumeAI-generated
Anatomical model with symbolic section plane · not a CBCT scan
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Several views form a volume

An X-ray system records a selected area from different directions. These images are used to calculate a three-dimensional dataset.

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Understand spatial relationships

The dataset can show the position of teeth and bony structures. The appropriate type of image depends on the clinical question.

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Three dimensions are not always needed

CBCT involves radiation exposure. It is not chosen simply because more dimensions are available. Its additional benefit needs justification.

Watch the short film Download infographic (German)

At a glance

What is CBCT?

An X-ray examination used to calculate a three-dimensional dataset.

When is it considered?

For selected questions that require additional spatial information.

How is the decision made?

The potential diagnostic benefit is weighed against radiation exposure.

Knowledge in motion

Explained in 36 seconds.

Three steps. Straight to the point.
Explanations are also shown on screen.

Short film (German): When can a three-dimensional X-ray help?

Silent film in German · English explanations in the three views above

Often confused

CBCT or intraoral scan?

CBCT produces X-ray images of a volume. An intraoral scan optically records accessible surfaces.

Quick answers
Is CBCT radiation-free?

No. It uses X-rays, unlike an optical intraoral scan.

Does every implant need CBCT?

Not automatically. Imaging is chosen according to the anatomy and the information needed for planning.

Does CBCT show everything in the mouth?

No. It is mainly suited to hard structures and replaces neither clinical examination nor every other imaging method.

At the practice

For your consultation

A question to discuss with Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour:

What additional information would we need, and which examination is suitable?

The profile describes digital planning as a support for personal consultation.

The clinical question helps determine which imaging may be useful.

Discuss imagingChoose an appointment on Doctolib
Meet Dr. med. dent. Niusha Barahmand Pour
Learning for dental trainees & teamsUnderstand clinical terms and build your knowledge

Build on the simple explanation with clinical terms, key distinctions and a knowledge question.

Volume dataset
Three-dimensional image data from which different views can be calculated.
Field of view
The selected three-dimensional area covered by an examination.
Justification
The professional decision that the benefit of radiation exposure outweighs its risk.

Know the difference

A three-dimensional image is not automatically diagnostically better; it should add useful information for the clinical question.

Knowledge questionWhat distinguishes CBCT from an intraoral scan?

This question supports learning. It does not assess personal symptoms.

  1. Both record only visible surfaces.
  2. CBCT uses X-rays; an optical scan records surfaces with light.
  3. Only the optical scan can show bone internally.
Show answer and explanation

CBCT uses X-rays; an optical scan records surfaces with light.

The methods provide different information and are not freely interchangeable.

Sources for further learning
Related terms
Intraoral scan Dental implant Wisdom teeth
Sources and context

Editorial research: 23 October 2026. This explanation covers general principles and does not replace a personal examination. Suitable treatment is discussed following individual assessment.