Knowledge, Awareness, and Practice of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography among Orthodontists: A Survey

Abstract

Introduction: Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is currently being universally utilized for orthodontic diagnosis, treatment planning, and various research projects. However, there have been varied opinions regarding the appropriate use of CBCTs in the field of orthodontics. The knowledge and awareness about using CBCT in circumstantial diagnoses are not clearly understood and certain situations are still debatable, hence this study was performed to rank the knowledge among practitioners and graduate students across India. Materials and Methods: A nation-based, cross-sectional, and descriptive survey was conducted on 559 orthodontist and orthodontic postgraduate students and 18 questions were put forward to assess the knowledge and awareness. All of the 18 questions were then critically analyzed individually and descriptively concluded with appropriate references. Result and Conclusion: The survey showed that there were varying levels of awareness and it could be concluded that orthodontist needs to constantly update their knowledge and skills in interpreting and utilizing a CBCT. Furthermore, the need for bringing out a scientific and evidence-based national guideline for the appropriate use of CBCT is recommended.