Yes. OCT uses light waves to capture images of your retina—it does not involve radiation or invasive procedures. According to the National Eye Institute, OCT is considered safe and highly effective for routine eye care and disease monitoring.

Most OCT scans take less than 10 minutes. There’s no need for recovery afterward, and you can resume normal activities immediately.

No. An OCT scan is one tool among many. It provides detailed retinal imaging, but your optometrist will also use other tests to check vision, eye pressure, and overall eye health.

Even if you don’t notice symptoms, conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration can begin quietly. Routine OCT scans—especially for people over 40 or with risk factors—can reveal early changes before vision is affected.

Coverage varies. Some insurance plans include OCT scans for high-risk patients or those with existing conditions, while others may not. It’s best to check with your provider ahead of time.

Dilation allows your optometrist to look directly into your eye, while OCT creates a 3D map of the retina’s layers. Both can be used together for a thorough exam, but OCT often provides more detailed structural information.

In most cases, OCT is not a routine test for children unless a specific concern exists. Pediatric eye exams usually rely on other methods unless retinal imaging is required.

There are no known risks or side effects. The light beam is low-powered and does not harm the eye.