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Imaging

CBCT Imaging and Virtual Surgical Planning

7 min readClinically reviewedUpdated 2026-03-30

What CBCT provides

Cone-beam CT captures the facial skeleton, airway, and dentition in three dimensions at a lower radiation dose than medical CT. Merged with an intraoral scan and a 3D facial photograph, it becomes the basis for virtual surgical planning.

What planning software actually predicts

Skeletal movements are planned precisely and transferred with cutting guides or splints. Soft-tissue simulations are approximations — the algorithms model tissue response statistically and are least reliable around the lips, nose, and chin pad.

Treat a soft-tissue morph as a communication tool, not a promise.

Information on this platform is for educational purposes and should not replace consultation with a qualified medical professional. Surgical suitability, risks, and expected outcomes must be assessed by an appropriately qualified surgeon.