Cone Beam Computed Tomography: A New Boon and a Ray of Hope to the Endodontist-A Series of Cases

Abstract

Aim: This article aims to provide comprehensive information related to the cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) as a diagnostic aid and its potential applications in dentistry.Background: A study was done on 10 different patients with different findings, such as Radix entomolaris, calcifications, vertical root fracture, internal resorption, cystic lesion, perforation, radicular cyst, preparation for endo surgery. These all findings could not be diagnosed by two-dimensional (2D) imaging which were diagnosed with the help of CBCT.Review results: Cone beam computed tomography is a revolutionary and innovative procedure that has changed the paradigms in the management of various endodontic conditions. Cone beam computed tomography offers speed and versatility to the practitioner and patient alike. Within few minutes of acquiring the scan, the dentist may fully explore the patient's three-dimensional (3D) image. The image can then be rotated, color-contrasted, and slices can be isolated and further analyzed. With its accurate and high-quality 3D representations, this technology offers tremendous improvements in diagnostic capabilities, eliminating surprises and minimizing the need for exploratory surgery. Conclusion:Cone beam computed tomography is an invaluable endodontic tool for use before, during, and after treatment CBCT scanning drives diagnostic accuracy, which positively impacts clinical decisions, increases speed of treatment, and improves productivity and patient outcomes. In short, it has provided the greatest advancement in digital imaging over the past decade.Clinical significance: When used for preoperative assessment, CBCT imaging provides highly detailed information on the entire tooth structure, including the location and number of canals, pulp chamber size and degree of calcification, curvature of root morphology, tooth and root fractures, inflammatory lesions and defects.