Cone Beam Computed Tomographic imaging in orthodontics

Abstract

Over the last 15 years, cone beam computed tomographic (CBCT) imaging has emerged as an important supplemental radiographic technique for orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning, especially in situations which require an understanding of the complex anatomic relationships and surrounding structures of the maxillofacial skeleton. CBCT imaging provides unique features and advantages to enhance orthodontic practice over conventional extraoral radiographic imaging. While it is the responsibility of each practitioner to make a decision, in tandem with the patient/family, consensus-derived, evidence-based clinical guidelines are available to assist the clinician in the decision-making process. Specific recommendations provide selection guidance based on variables such as phase of treatment, clinically-assessed treatment difficulty, the presence of dental and/or skeletal modifying conditions, and pathology. CBCT imaging in orthodontics should always be considered wisely as children have conservatively, on average, a three to five times greater radiation risk compared with adults for the same exposure. The purpose of this paper is to provide an understanding of the operation of CBCT equipment as it relates to image quality and dose, highlight the benefits of the technique in orthodontic practice, and provide guidance on appropriate clinical use with respect to radiation dose and relative risk, particularly for the paediatric patient.

Correlation Between the Extension of the Maxillary Sinus Floor and Malocclusion in Adolescent Patients Using a Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

“…CBCT was used to assess the relationship between the posterior maxillary roots and the sinus oor at different orientations using Dolphin software. CBCT imaging provides unique features and advantages over conventional extra-oral radiographic imaging such as 3D visualization and virtual 3D model reconstruction 46 . In addition to these advantages, CBCT data can also be used for 3D cephalometric analysis.…”

Comparación de distancias interradiculares y grosor del hueso cortical en dos sectores del maxilar inferior para colocación de mini implantes

“…En los últimos 15 años, la tomografía computarizada de haz cónico ha surgido como un complemento importante para el diagnóstico y planificación del tratamiento ortodóncico; especialmente en situaciones que requieren un estudio exacto de las complejas relaciones anatómicas y estructuras circundantes del esqueleto maxilofacial (4). La tomografía computarizada de haz cónico proporciona características y ventajas únicas para mejorar la práctica ortodóncica sobre las radiografías convencionales bidimensionales (5).…”

Response to the Letter

“…In Australia and in the United States there is a reasonable body of orthodontic opinion, which would support the use of CBCT for diagnostic purposes and no state or federal laws or clinical directives preventing their use for these purposes. 3…”