Panoramic X-ray vs. CT Scan for Teeth in Tashkent: Prices and Differences
A panoramic X-ray (OPG) in Tashkent costs from 0.1 to 0.2 million soum, while a cone beam CT scan (CBCT) runs from 0.2 to 0.5 million soum. Both studies show your teeth and jaw, but they serve very different purposes: an OPG gives you a flat, full-mouth overview, while CBCT produces a three-dimensional model accurate to fractions of a millimetre. The right choice depends on what your dentist actually needs to see.
An OPG is the standard first-look image. It captures all teeth, both jaws, the temporomandibular joints, and the maxillary sinuses in a single flat shot. Dentists use it for initial assessments, orthodontic planning, evaluating wisdom teeth, and checking the general condition of the periodontium. Radiation exposure is minimal and the scan takes about a minute, so many clinics recommend an OPG once every year or two as a routine check.
CBCT — cone beam computed tomography — produces a layered, three-dimensional image. It becomes essential when a flat picture simply is not enough. Before placing a dental implant, the surgeon must measure bone height and width precisely, and assess how close the inferior alveolar nerve or sinus floor sits to the planned site. Sinus lift and bone grafting procedures cannot be safely planned without this data. A 3D scan is also invaluable for complex wisdom tooth extractions, diagnosing cysts, detecting root fractures, and evaluating TMJ disorders.
In practice, the typical workflow looks like this: an OPG is taken at the initial consultation, and if implant placement or complex surgery is on the table, the dentist refers the patient for a CBCT. Some Tashkent clinics skip straight to 3D imaging when a patient comes in specifically about implants, to avoid an unnecessary intermediate step. The exact diagnostic protocol is always determined by the treating physician after an in-person examination.
Image quality depends not only on the type of scanner but also on its class and settings. Modern CBCT units let the operator choose the field of view: a small field covering one or two teeth delivers a lower dose and higher resolution, while a full-arch field is needed for comprehensive rehabilitation planning. Always ask the clinic which machine they use and whether image interpretation by a radiologist is included in the price — this can affect the total cost significantly.
To find Tashkent clinics equipped with CBCT or OPG, the Dentum catalogue is a convenient starting point — you can filter by patient ratings and reviews to find a facility with the right equipment and a qualified radiologist who will read your scan accurately.
Bottom line: an OPG (from 0.1 million soum) is sufficient for a general dental health check, while a CBCT (from 0.2 million soum) is necessary before implant placement, complex surgery, or when the diagnosis is unclear. If you are planning an implant or simply want to know which scan is right for you, book a consultation with a dentist in Tashkent through Dentum — the doctor will examine you and advise exactly what imaging your situation requires.
What is the difference between a panoramic X-ray and a dental CT scan?
A panoramic X-ray (OPG) is a flat, two-dimensional image covering all teeth and both jaws — fast and affordable. A CT scan (CBCT) creates a three-dimensional model that shows exact bone volume, nerve positions, and sinus anatomy. OPG suits general diagnostics, while CBCT is used for implant planning and complex surgical procedures.
Is a CT scan required before getting a dental implant?
In most cases, yes. CBCT allows the surgeon to measure bone height and width precisely and to assess the distance to the nerve and sinus floor — information that is critical for safe implant planning. Without this data, the surgeon is essentially working without a complete picture, which increases the risk of complications. The specific diagnostic protocol is determined by your treating dentist.
How much does a dental CT scan cost in Tashkent?
CBCT in Tashkent costs from 0.2 to 0.5 million soum, depending on the clinic, the scanner model, and the field of view (a single tooth versus a full arch). A panoramic X-ray is less expensive, ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 million soum. Always check whether radiologist interpretation is included in the quoted price.
How often can I have a dental CT scan — is the radiation harmful?
CBCT delivers a higher radiation dose than a standard panoramic X-ray, but significantly lower than a full-body medical CT. As a rule, it is prescribed based on clinical indications rather than as a routine check. The frequency and necessity of the scan are determined by your dentist according to your individual clinical situation.