"Do I need a referral?" is one of the first questions we hear — especially if you found us online instead of through your dentist.
It depends on the type of imaging. CBCT (cone beam CT) is prescribed so the field of view matches a clinical need. Many panoramic, cephalometric, photo, and impression visits can be scheduled by calling us.
When a Referral Is Required
CBCT scans require a referral from your dentist, orthodontist, or oral surgeon. The referral tells us which arch or region to capture (limited FOV vs full arch, TMJ, airway, and so on).
That prescription protects you from an oversized or incorrect 3D volume and makes sure your clinician receives the dataset they actually need.
When You Can Usually Schedule Directly
Many 2D and records services do not require a CBCT-style referral at our center, including:
- Panoramic dental X-rays
- Cephalometric (side-view) X-rays for orthodontics
- Intraoral and extraoral photos
- Digital intraoral impressions
Your dentist may still send notes or a form so we capture the views they want. If you already have instructions from their office, bring them or have them emailed to us.
How Referrals Work
- Your dentist completes our referral with the study type and area of interest.
- We schedule you promptly — many visits are available with same-day results.
- We capture the prescribed scan and deliver digital files to the practice (and to you on request).
If you are a patient waiting on a CBCT, ask your dentist to send the referral first. We cannot invent a field of view without it.
CBCT vs Everyday X-Rays
| Study | Referral at our center |
|---|---|
| CBCT (limited FOV, full arch, TMJ) | Yes |
| Panoramic X-ray | Usually no |
| Cephalometric X-ray | Usually no |
| Photos and digital impressions | Usually no |
What If I Don't Have a Dentist Yet?
For panoramic or records visits, call us and we will tell you what to bring. For CBCT, you will need a dentist or specialist to write the prescription. We are an imaging center — we do not diagnose or plan treatment.
Schedule in Fremont
Located in Warm Springs near Milpitas and I-680. Call (510) 659-0210 with questions about referrals or to book a 2D study.