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CBCT scan before dental implants: what it is and why you need it
A CBCT scan is the standard of care for implant planning. It shows bone in 3D, nerve position, and sinus proximity. Learn what it costs in Australia versus Vietnam.
Yes, a CBCT (Conebeam CT) scan is the standard of care before dental implant surgery. It produces a 3D image of your jawbone showing bone height, width, and density at the exact implant site, as well as the location of the inferior alveolar nerve and the floor of the sinus. At Picasso Dental Clinic in Vietnam, a CBCT costs AUD 33 as of May 2026. Australian private clinics charge AUD 250–AUD 500 for the same scan.
What a CBCT shows — and why it changes the plan
| Information | From standard OPG (2D) | From CBCT (3D) |
|---|---|---|
| Bone height | Yes | Yes |
| Bone width | No | Yes |
| Bone density | No | Estimated from 3D volume |
| Inferior alveolar nerve position | Approximate | Precise |
| Sinus floor position | Approximate | Precise |
| Existing pathology at site | Limited | Comprehensive |
| Pre-implant planning accuracy | Estimated | Measured |
The inferior alveolar nerve (lower jaw) and the maxillary sinus floor (upper jaw) are the two structures most at risk during implant surgery. A millimetre of margin matters. CBCT removes the estimation.
When a clinic does NOT offer CBCT
If a clinic offers implant placement without CBCT — using only an OPG or palpation — this is a significant clinical red flag. It is not unique to overseas clinics: some Australian bulk-billing dental practices similarly skip CBCT to reduce costs. In both cases, the patient bears the risk of an undetected nerve or sinus complication.
At Picasso, CBCT is mandatory before implant placement. It is non-negotiable — not because it is a revenue item (at AUD 33 it is not), but because the planning accuracy is required for safe placement.
Australian CBCT cost vs Picasso
| Provider | CBCT cost |
|---|---|
| Australian private clinic | AUD 250 – AUD 500 |
| Radiology centre (Australia) | AUD 200 – AUD 400 |
| Picasso Dental Clinic Vietnam | AUD 33 |
If you have a recent Australian CBCT (within 6–12 months), bring it — Picasso can assess it remotely. If it is older or incomplete, a new CBCT will be taken on arrival.
How to send your existing CBCT to Picasso
- Ask your Australian dentist for your CBCT files in DICOM format (a CD/USB or download link)
- Upload via the free quote form or send via email to [email protected]
- Picasso’s implant team will assess bone volume, nerve clearance, and implant position before your visit
- Your written treatment plan will reflect the CBCT findings — including any grafting requirements