Add a third dimension to your patient care with cone beam computed tomography

Abstract

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has been specifically designed to produce undistorted three-dimensional information of the maxillofacial skeleton, including the teeth and their surrounding tissues with a significantly lower effective radiation dose compared with conventional computed tomography. The revolutionary introduction of CBCT in all fields of dentistry is unprecedented as it has created a true paradigm shift from a conventional two-dimensional approach to a three-dimensional understanding. In doing so it has expanded the role of imaging from its traditional one in diagnosis to image guidance of operative and surgical procedures. Clinical Relevance To Interdisciplinary Dentistry Detecting anatomical variants such as accessory neurovascular canals, bony undercuts, and local alterations in trabecular patterns, all of which influence implant treatment planning Identification of root canal system anomalies and determination of root curvature for successful endodontic practice Cone beam computed tomography, offers an opportunity to see inside the bone and pinpoint and measure densities in small localized areas such as a vertical periodontal defect or alveolar bone graft Three-dimensional and cross-sectional evaluation of the implant patient and it allows virtual implant placement that can guide the implantologist in terms of density and thickness of the alveolar bone.