Dicom Export Referring Office
DICOM Export Referring Office is a specialized dental service provided by the board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Measuring the airway in three dimensions to connect breathing problems with anatomical causes.
CBCT Airway Analysis for Sleep and Breathing Disorders
Obstructive sleep apnea and upper airway resistance syndrome are not just sleep problems — they are anatomical problems. The pharyngeal airway is a collapsible tube surrounded by soft tissue, the tongue base, the soft palate, and the lateral pharyngeal walls. When that tube is too narrow, too long, or too easily collapsible, breathing is compromised during sleep. CBCT airway analysis at Aloha Dental Specialty Center measures the minimum cross-sectional area, total airway volume, and the three-dimensional shape of the pharyngeal space — data that a sleep study alone cannot provide.
Dr. Ostovar and Dr. Gvozden use CBCT airway data to determine whether a mandibular advancement device will meaningfully increase airway caliber, whether orthodontic expansion could widen the nasal airway, or whether the obstruction pattern suggests surgical intervention is needed. The scan also reveals related anatomical factors: deviated nasal septum, enlarged turbinates, tonsillar hypertrophy visible as soft-tissue encroachment, and retrognathic mandibular position that pushes the tongue base posteriorly.
For patients already diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea through a polysomnogram or home sleep study, CBCT airway analysis adds the anatomical dimension that the sleep test misses. It answers the question: where exactly is the obstruction, and what structures are responsible? This information drives treatment selection rather than the one-size-fits-all approach of prescribing CPAP for every patient regardless of the obstruction pattern.
Serving Beaverton, Aloha, Hillsboro & Washington County
Aloha Dental Specialty Center is located at 18455 SW Alexander St, Suite A, in Beaverton, Or 97003egon. We serve patients from across the Tualatin Valley and greater Portland metro, including Aloha, Hillsboro, Tigard, Lake Oswego, and Tualatin. Our Beaverton office is a 5-minute drive from Aloha, 10 minutes from Hillsboro, and 15 minutes from Tigard via SW 185th Avenue.
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Intel Campuses (Ronler Acres & Jones Farm)
10 to 15 minutes via NW 185th Ave. We accommodate the schedules of tech professionals who need efficient, high-quality specialty care.
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Nike World Headquarters
About 8 minutes via SW Baseline Rd. We frequently see patients from the Nike campus for surgical and implant procedures with sedation options.
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Streets of Tanasbourne & Orenco Station
Easily accessible via US-26 and NW 185th. Local general dentists in these communities regularly refer patients to us for specialty procedures.
Why Local Dentists Refer to Us
We work as a trusted partner to general dentists throughout the Tualatin Valley. When cases require CBCT-guided planning, IV sedation, bone grafting, or other advanced procedures, local providers refer to Dr. Ostovar for his fellowship-trained expertise and predictable results.
We handle the complex surgical phases and coordinate closely with your general dentist for seamless continuity of care from start to finish.
Understanding Your Investment
At Aloha Dental Specialty Center, we provide transparent pricing before any treatment begins. The cost of your procedure depends on clinical complexity, materials used, and sedation requirements. We walk you through every line item during your consultation so there are no surprises.
What Affects Cost:
- Clinical Complexity: Bone loss, sinus proximity, nerve involvement, or the need for grafting affects treatment planning and surgical time.
- Materials: We use research-backed implant systems, purified bone graft matrices, and high-strength ceramics from established manufacturers.
- Sedation: Options range from local anesthesia to IV sedation, each with different associated costs. We discuss the best option for your comfort and procedure.
Insurance & Financing
We accept most major dental insurance plans and file claims on your behalf. Our team verifies your benefits before treatment and submits pre-treatment estimates with clinical documentation to maximize coverage.
For out-of-pocket costs, we partner with CareCredit and Cherry for flexible payment plans. We also offer our ADSC Dental Savings Plan for patients without insurance.
Recovery & Healing Timeline
Understanding the healing process helps you plan ahead and follow post-operative instructions for the best possible outcome.
First 48 Hours
Mild swelling and tenderness are normal. Apply ice packs in 20-minute intervals and take prescribed or over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication. Eat soft foods and avoid the surgical site when chewing.
Days 3 to 7
Swelling peaks around day three and then improves. The tissue begins closing over the surgical site. Continue with soft foods and use any prescribed antimicrobial rinse. Most patients return to normal activities during this phase.
Long-Term Healing
Surface tissue heals within two to three weeks. Bone integration and deep healing continue for three to six months. Avoid smoking, follow up as scheduled, and maintain good oral hygiene throughout recovery.
Questions during recovery? Call us at (503) 822-0096. We are available for post-operative concerns.
Volumetric Airway Measurement with CBCT
CBCT airway analysis segments the upper airway from the nasal floor to the base of the epiglottis using density thresholds that distinguish air from soft tissue. The minimum cross-sectional area (MCA) — the narrowest point in the pharynx — is the single most predictive measurement for obstruction risk. Studies correlating CBCT airway volumes with polysomnographic apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) values have demonstrated that patients with MCA below 50 square millimeters are at significantly elevated risk for moderate to severe OSA. The anteroposterior and lateral dimensions at the MCA level identify whether the obstruction is primarily sagittal (tongue-base driven) or lateral (pharyngeal wall driven), which influences whether mandibular advancement or palatal expansion is the more appropriate intervention.
Why Choose a Specialist?
Airway evaluation at ADSC is performed by clinicians who provide oral appliance therapy for sleep apnea and who understand the relationship between jaw position, dental occlusion, and airway patency. The practice coordinates with sleep medicine physicians for diagnosis and with ENT specialists when surgical airway management is indicated. This cross-disciplinary approach ensures that CBCT airway findings are translated into treatment plans informed by both dental and medical expertise.
Your DICOM Export Referring Office Treatment Steps
- Consultation & Exam: Comprehensive dicom export referring office evaluation with CBCT 3D imaging at our Beaverton office.
- Treatment Plan: Board-certified specialist discusses your dicom export referring office options, timeline, and costs. Our procedures maintain a 95%+ success rate, backed by advanced 3D imaging and evidence-based protocols.
- Treatment: Procedure performed with comfort options including sedation if needed.
- Follow-Up: Post-treatment monitoring and care coordination for optimal healing.
Schedule Your Appointment Today
Book a consultation with our board-certified specialists at Aloha Dental Specialty Center in Beaverton, OR. Call (503) 822-0096 Office hours: Monday through Friday 7 AM to 7 PM, Saturday and Sunday 8 AM to 2 PM. or request an appointment online.
Related Services at Aloha Dental Specialty Center:
Dental Implants · Oral Surgery · Root Canal · Invisalign · Periodontics · Pediatric · TMJ Treatment · Sedation · Cosmetic · Emergency · Sleep Apnea
A Note from Your Dental Team
In my experience, the patients who get the best results from dicom export referring office are those who come in with realistic expectations and follow their post-treatment instructions carefully. I’d rather spend extra time explaining what to expect than have a patient be surprised later.
“Every patient I see has a different story, a different set of concerns, and a different definition of what ‘success’ looks like. That’s why I don’t believe in one-size-fits-all treatment plans. When you come in for a consultation, I’ll listen first, examine second, and recommend third.
I also won’t recommend a procedure you don’t need. If your tooth can be saved with a filling instead of a crown, I’ll tell you that. If watchful waiting is appropriate, I’ll explain why. My job isn’t to sell treatment — it’s to give you my honest clinical judgment so you can make an informed decision.
If you have questions about whether this treatment is right for you, or if you’ve been told you need this procedure by another dentist and want a second opinion, call us at (503) 822-0096. We’re happy to take the time to explain everything — no rush, no pressure.”
— Dr. Merat Ostovar & Dr. Jovan Gvozden | Aloha Dental Specialty Center, Beaverton, OR
I know many patients feel anxious about dental procedures — you’re not alone in that. What I hear most often after treatment is: “That was so much easier than I expected.” We’re here to make this as comfortable as possible for you.
Are You a Candidate for DICOM Export Referring Office?
Most patients in good general health are candidates for dicom export referring office. However, certain factors may affect your eligibility or require modifications to the treatment plan:
- Medical conditions: Uncontrolled diabetes, autoimmune disorders, or blood-thinning medications may require coordination with your physician before treatment.
- Bone quality: For dicom export referring office involving the jawbone, adequate bone density is essential. A CBCT 3D scan during your consultation determines this precisely.
- Smoking: Tobacco use significantly impairs healing. We strongly recommend quitting 2-4 weeks before and after any surgical procedure.
- Age: There is generally no upper age limit. What matters is your overall health, not your age. We have successfully treated patients in their 80s and 90s.
The only way to know for certain is a consultation with our board-certified specialists. Call (503) 822-0096 to schedule your evaluation — we’ll tell you honestly whether this is the right treatment for your situation.
Typical Healing Timeline:
Days 1-3: Initial healing, mild swelling managed with ice and medication. Days 4-7: Swelling subsides, gradual return to normal diet. Weeks 2-4: Soft tissue heals completely. Months 2-6: Bone remodeling and full integration (for surgical procedures). Individual recovery varies — we provide detailed post-op instructions specific to your procedure.
For additional clinical information, visit the American Dental Association (ADA).
Last reviewed by our dental specialists: March 2026. Clinical information on this page reflects current evidence-based dental practices.
Related Dental Services
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a CBCT airway analysis measure?
The analysis measures total pharyngeal airway volume, minimum cross-sectional area (the narrowest point), anteroposterior and lateral dimensions at the point of greatest restriction, and the three-dimensional shape of the airway from the nasal floor to the hyoid bone level. These measurements identify where the obstruction is and how severe it is.
Can CBCT diagnose sleep apnea?
CBCT does not diagnose sleep apnea — a sleep study (polysomnogram or home sleep test) is required for that. What CBCT provides is the anatomical explanation for why apnea is occurring and where the obstruction is located. This information guides treatment selection, not diagnosis.
How does airway CBCT help with oral appliance therapy?
By measuring the baseline airway and then predicting (or measuring on a follow-up scan with the appliance in place) how mandibular advancement changes the airway dimensions. If advancing the mandible by 5 to 8 millimeters significantly increases the minimum cross-sectional area, oral appliance therapy is likely to be effective.
Is CBCT airway analysis useful for children?
Yes. Pediatric airway assessment with CBCT can identify adenotonsillar hypertrophy, narrow maxillary arches contributing to nasal obstruction, and retrognathic mandibular positions that predispose children to sleep-disordered breathing. This information guides decisions about orthodontic expansion, tonsillectomy referral, or myofunctional therapy.
What is the minimum cross-sectional area and why does it matter?
The minimum cross-sectional area (MCA) is the smallest point in the pharyngeal airway. It represents the most collapsible segment during sleep. Research has shown that MCA values below 50 square millimeters correlate with significantly increased risk of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea. It is the single most important measurement in airway CBCT analysis.
Can CBCT show why I snore?
CBCT can identify anatomical contributors to snoring: a long soft palate, a narrow retropalatal airway, a large tongue base, or a posteriorly positioned mandible. While snoring can also result from nasal congestion, alcohol consumption, or sleep position, the anatomical factors visible on CBCT often explain chronic, positional snoring.
How does CBCT airway data relate to my CPAP settings?
Knowing the obstruction location and severity helps sleep medicine physicians optimize CPAP pressure settings. Additionally, for patients who cannot tolerate CPAP, the CBCT data helps determine whether an oral appliance or surgical intervention is a viable alternative by showing the specific anatomy that needs to be addressed.
Does jaw surgery change the airway?
Yes. Mandibular advancement surgery increases the posterior airway space by moving the tongue base forward. Maxillary expansion widens the nasal airway. CBCT before and after surgery documents the change in airway dimensions. For patients with severe OSA and significant skeletal deficiency, orthognathic surgery can be a definitive treatment.
What is upper airway resistance syndrome?
Upper airway resistance syndrome (UARS) involves partial airway obstruction that disrupts sleep without meeting the formal criteria for obstructive sleep apnea. Patients experience daytime fatigue, non-restorative sleep, and frequent arousals. CBCT may show a borderline-narrow airway that collapses enough to fragment sleep without producing frank apneas.
Can CBCT detect a deviated septum?
Yes. The nasal passages are visible on CBCT, and septal deviation, turbinate hypertrophy, and concha bullosa (air-filled middle turbinate) are readily identified. If nasal obstruction is contributing to mouth breathing and pharyngeal airway narrowing, the CBCT findings support ENT referral.
How long does a CBCT airway analysis take?
The scan takes 12 to 20 seconds. The airway segmentation and measurement is performed using dedicated software and reviewed with the patient during the same appointment. A complete airway report for referring physicians or sleep medicine specialists is prepared within one to two business days.
Is there radiation risk from an airway CBCT scan?
The dose is the same as a standard dental CBCT — 20 to 200 microsieverts depending on field of view. This is a fraction of a medical CT dose and is appropriate when the clinical question involves airway anatomy that cannot be assessed with lower-dose imaging.
Can I get an airway CBCT without a sleep apnea diagnosis?
Yes. Patients who snore, experience daytime fatigue, or have concerns about breathing during sleep can request an airway evaluation. If the CBCT suggests significant airway narrowing, ADSC will recommend a formal sleep study with a sleep medicine physician to establish a diagnosis.
Does insurance cover airway CBCT analysis?
Coverage varies. Some medical insurance plans cover airway imaging when ordered in conjunction with a sleep apnea diagnosis. Dental insurance coverage depends on the plan. The ADSC billing team verifies benefits before your appointment and provides a clear cost estimate.
What is the relationship between jaw position and airway size?
A retruded (set-back) mandible positions the tongue base closer to the posterior pharyngeal wall, narrowing the airway. This is why mandibular advancement — whether through an oral appliance at night or through surgical jaw repositioning — increases airway caliber. CBCT quantifies this relationship and predicts how much advancement is needed.
Schedule an Airway Evaluation at ADSC
Call our Beaverton office or request an appointment online. We look forward to helping you.
Clinically Reviewed by Dr. Merat Ostovar, DMD
Doctor of Dental Medicine | Implant & Specialty Dentistry | 15+ Years Experience
Aloha Dental Specialty Center — Serving Aloha, Beaverton, Hillsboro & Greater Portland
Last updated: March 19, 2026