Get answers to common questions about dental X-rays, CBCT scans, panoramic imaging, digital impressions, insurance, safety, and more.
Most Popular Questions
What is a CBCT scan and why would I need one?
A Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan is an advanced type of 3D dental imaging that captures your teeth, jaw, nerves, and sinuses in high detail. Dentists and oral surgeons recommend CBCT scans for procedures like dental implants, wisdom tooth extractions, root canal evaluations, and jaw joint (TMJ) issues. Unlike regular X-rays, CBCT scans create a complete 3D picture, making treatment planning safer and more precise.
Is a CBCT scan safe? How much radiation is it compared to regular X-rays?
Yes — Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scans are considered very safe. The radiation exposure is significantly lower than a medical CT scan and is often comparable to just a few days to weeks of natural background radiation. At our Fremont imaging center, we follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) and adjust scan settings for each patient, including pediatric protocols for children, to minimize exposure.
Do I need a referral from my dentist for a CBCT scan?
Yes — a referral is required for Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans. This ensures your dentist or specialist provides the correct prescription and scan protocol so we capture exactly what's needed. If you don't yet have a referral, ask your dentist to send one directly to us. Once we receive it, we can schedule your scan right away and deliver the images the same day.
How much does a CBCT scan cost in Fremont? Is it covered by insurance?
The cost of a CBCT scan (Cone Beam CT) depends on the area being scanned and whether a radiology report is requested. Some dental insurance plans cover CBCT when it's medically necessary, such as for implant planning or evaluating pathology. For patients paying out of pocket, we offer transparent flat-fee pricing and provide superbills you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.
How quickly will my dentist get my CBCT results and images?
We provide same-day delivery for all CBCT (Cone Beam CT) scans. Your dentist receives a secure digital link containing the DICOM files and a free viewing software. For urgent cases, such as surgical planning, we can prioritize delivery within just a couple of hours. Patients also receive their own copy upon request.
What's the difference between a panoramic X-ray and a CBCT scan?
A panoramic X-ray is a 2D overview image of your teeth and jaws, typically used for check-ups, orthodontics, or wisdom tooth monitoring. A CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scan is 3D, providing detailed cross-sectional views of bone, nerves, and soft tissue. Dentists use CBCT when precise planning is needed — such as for dental implants, complex root canals, or jaw surgery.
For most X-rays and digital impressions, we can often accommodate same-day or walk-in patients. However, CBCT scans do require a referral from your dentist or specialist. If you already have a prescription, we can usually perform the scan the same day you contact us.
Where are you located in Fremont? Is parking available?
We're located in the Warm Springs area of Fremont, close to Milpitas and right off I-680. The office has plenty of free parking on-site, and we're also near the Warm Springs BART station for easy access. Patients appreciate that our imaging center is easy to find and stress-free to get to.
A Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan is an advanced type of 3D dental imaging that captures your teeth, jaw, nerves, and sinuses in high detail. Dentists and oral surgeons recommend CBCT scans for procedures like dental implants, wisdom tooth extractions, root canal evaluations, and jaw joint (TMJ) issues. Unlike regular X-rays, CBCT scans create a complete 3D picture, making treatment planning safer and more precise.
Yes — Cone Beam CT (CBCT) scans are considered very safe. The radiation exposure is significantly lower than a medical CT scan and is often comparable to just a few days to weeks of natural background radiation. At our Fremont imaging center, we follow the ALARA principle (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) and adjust scan settings for each patient, including pediatric protocols for children, to minimize exposure.
Yes — a referral is required for Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans. This ensures your dentist or specialist provides the correct prescription and scan protocol so we capture exactly what's needed. If you don't yet have a referral, ask your dentist to send one directly to us. Once we receive it, we can schedule your scan right away and deliver the images the same day.
Scan time is ~10–20 seconds; total visit ~10 minutes.
We provide same-day delivery for all CBCT (Cone Beam CT) scans. Your dentist receives a secure digital link containing the DICOM files and a free viewing software. For urgent cases, such as surgical planning, we can prioritize delivery within just a couple of hours. Patients also receive their own copy upon request.
CBCT scans during pregnancy are generally avoided unless absolutely necessary. If a Cone Beam CT scan is urgently required, we use strict safety protocols, including lead aprons and collimated beams, to limit exposure. We will also consult with your dentist and OB/GYN before proceeding.
Yes. Every scan we perform includes a basic quality review. If your dentist or specialist requests a formal radiology report, we can provide one within 24–48 hours. This ensures they have a detailed interpretation for treatment planning.
A panoramic X-ray is a 2D overview image of your teeth and jaws, typically used for check-ups, orthodontics, or wisdom tooth monitoring. A CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scan is 3D, providing detailed cross-sectional views of bone, nerves, and soft tissue. Dentists use CBCT when precise planning is needed — such as for dental implants, complex root canals, or jaw surgery.
Most dentists recommend panoramic X-rays every 3–5 years, or sooner if you're starting orthodontic treatment, evaluating wisdom teeth, or checking for jaw conditions. Your dentist will decide the right schedule for you based on your dental history.
A cephalometric (or "ceph") X-ray is a side-view image of your head that shows the teeth, jaw, and airway. Orthodontists use it to plan braces, aligners, and jaw growth corrections. It's also helpful in evaluating airway issues and bite relationships.
Yes. Along with the digital DICOM files, we can provide tracings and JPEGs to your orthodontist. This makes treatment planning faster and more accurate.
Yes — in most cases, digital impressions are just as accurate (if not more accurate) than traditional molds. They're faster, more comfortable, and eliminate the mess. Many patients in Fremont prefer them, especially for crowns, aligners, or bite guards.
Yes. We provide both standard dental photography (intraoral and extraoral) and cosmetic portrait sets. This helps patients and dentists track progress and see the full smile transformation.
We're located in the Warm Springs area of Fremont, close to Milpitas and right off I-680. The office has plenty of free parking on-site, and we're also near the Warm Springs BART station for easy access. Patients appreciate that our imaging center is easy to find and stress-free to get to.
For most X-rays and digital impressions, we can often accommodate same-day or walk-in patients. However, CBCT scans do require a referral from your dentist or specialist. If you already have a prescription, we can usually perform the scan the same day you contact us.
Your dentist will usually receive the images the same day — through a secure link that includes the DICOM files and a free viewing software. For urgent cases, we can prioritize and deliver within 2 hours.
Yes. Once your dentist has referred you for a CBCT scan, you'll receive your own secure digital copy of the images in addition to what we send to your provider. This way, you have full access to your records and can share them with any other specialists if needed.
The cost of a CBCT scan (Cone Beam CT) depends on the area being scanned and whether a radiology report is requested. Some dental insurance plans cover CBCT when it's medically necessary, such as for implant planning or evaluating pathology. For patients paying out of pocket, we offer transparent flat-fee pricing and provide superbills you can submit to your insurance for possible reimbursement.
Yes. We accept HSA and FSA cards, and also offer flexible split payments for patients paying out of pocket. For bundled scans (like CBCT plus radiology report), we provide discounted package pricing.
A Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scan provides a 3D map of your bone volume, density, and the location of nerves and sinuses. This information is critical for safe and accurate dental implant placement. With CBCT, your dentist or surgeon can plan the exact implant angle and depth, reducing risks and improving long-term success.
Yes. A CBCT (Cone Beam CT) scan can detect hidden root canals, small fractures, or infections that often don't appear on standard 2D X-rays. Endodontists frequently rely on CBCT when evaluating failed root canals or persistent pain of unknown origin.
Yes. Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) scans can visualize the jaw joints (TMJ) and airway space in 3D. While CBCT is a valuable screening tool, diagnosis and treatment of TMJ disorders or sleep apnea must be done by a specialist.
Our imaging staff are CBCT-certified and follow ADA and AAOMR guidelines. We also maintain strict quality control and regular equipment calibration for accuracy and safety.
Dentists and specialists can send referrals to us through our secure online referral form. Once the prescription and protocol are uploaded, patients can be scheduled immediately. We provide same-day delivery of images and optional radiology reports.
Standard turnaround is the same day for images, with formal narrative radiology reports available in 24–48 hours. Urgent cases can be flagged for priority.
Yes. For Cone Beam CT scans, we can customize the field of view (FOV) based on the clinical need. A smaller FOV reduces radiation exposure while still capturing the critical anatomy for your treatment. This approach follows the ALARA principle for maximum patient safety.
Yes. Beyond the standard images, we offer segmentation and digital planning services for CBCT (Cone Beam CT) scans. This includes generating STL files for surgical guides, which help dentists and labs achieve more precise implant placement.
All scans are shared via encrypted links with expiration dates and audit tracking. For group practices, we can sign a Business Associate Agreement (BAA) for HIPAA compliance.
They are precise 3D digital models of your teeth created with an intraoral scanner so aligner companies can fabricate custom clear aligners.
No referral is required for aligner scans. You can schedule directly and receive your digital files the same day.
Yes. We provide standard STL exports that are compatible with most aligner brands. We recommend confirming specific file requirements with your chosen provider.
Most appointments take 15–20 minutes. We deliver your scan files digitally the same day so you can submit them to your aligner provider.
Aligner scans are usually considered elective and are not covered by dental insurance. We offer affordable self-pay pricing.
No. Our scans supply the records you need, but they are not a diagnosis or treatment plan. Complex bite, crowding, or jaw issues should be evaluated by an orthodontist.
Yes. We use optical 3D scanning, which has no radiation and is comfortable and quick.
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