CT Dentascan
Your doctor has requested a computed tomography (CT or CAT) dentascan. CT scans use X-ray technology and advanced computer analysis to create detailed pictures (cross-sections)of the body. The CT Dentascan is a specially developed computerized reformatting program that has been developed to obtain true cross-sections of the mandible (jaw) and maxilla (upper mouth). A CT dentascan may be used for patients being considered for dental implant surgery in either the mandibular or maxillary arches as it helps the dental surgeon determine the position and length of the implants.
Cedars-Sinai's S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center has a team of specialists, led by Barry D. Pressman, MD, Chief of Neuroradiology and Head and Neck Radiology, who focus on these types of scans.
Before Arriving for Your Exam
Patients who are diabetic and taking Glucophage will need clearance from their referring physician prior to starting the exam.
You will be instructed not to eat or drink anything three hours prior to your exam.
Some scans will require a contrast dye, administered through an injection in your arm. The dye improves the image quality by highlighting certain structures, such as arteries, and making them more visible on the scan.
Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home and wear comfortable clothing. Because this is a scan of the head, anything like dentures, false teeth or implants, earrings, or hairpins can interfere with the scan and should be left at home.
Although we do not anticipate any delay in your scheduled appointment, we recommend that you bring a book, a magazine, or a music player to help pass the time while you are waiting.
After Arriving
A radiology nurse or technologist will ask you a few questions regarding your medical history.
If you are receiving contrast, a nurse or technologist will insert a small IV in your arm.
You must inform the technologist, radiology nurse and/or physician of any allergies you may have before your exam.
During Your Exam
While positioning you on the exam table, the technologist will explain your procedure and answer any questions you may have.
If contrast dye is being used, it will be injected through your IV.
During the injection you may experience a warm sensation all over your body and a metal taste in your mouth. This is normal.
If you experience any itching, sneezing, nasal congestion, scratchy throat or swelling of your face you should notify the technologist immediately.
You will be asked to lie flat on your back. Your arms will be positioned at your sides. Your head will be placed in a holder and you will be asked to hold very still.
The table you are on will slide into the scanner. Only your head will be covered by the scanner. The scanner is open at the back and the front, allowing you to see out.
The technologist will always be able to see and hear you during your exam.
This procedure usually takes approximately 15 to 30 minutes.
After Your Exam
There are no restrictions placed on you after this procedure. You may eat or drive as normal.
If you received an injection of contrast dye, you should drink plenty of liquid to help flush it out of your system.
Your study will be read by an imaging physician who specializes in the interpretation of CT scans. The results will be sent to your physician, usually within 48 hours.
Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.
Parking Information
Valet parking is available in front of the Imaging center from 7:30am-5:00pm.
For self parking, please enter parking lot P4, located at the corner of San Vicente Blvd. and 3rd Street. The entrance is on San Vicente Blvd.
If you are arriving after 5:00pm, please park in parking lot P1, located off of George Burns Rd. between Beverly Blvd. and Alden Dr. The entrance is off of George Burns Rd.
Partially validated parking at a cost of $4.00 is provided to our imaging patients for valet and self parking in the lots mentioned above.
Please Note: We do not validate for parking lots in the Medical Office Towers located at 8631 and 8635 W. 3rd St.
