IMPORTANCE OF CBCT FOR DIAGNOSIS OF DENTAL FRACTURE IN A POST-TRAUMA PATIENT: CASE REPORT

Abstract

Digital periapical radiographs are one of the exams of choice that enable the identification of dental fracture lines in some cases. However, because of it bidimensional nature, the overlap of other structures can occur, interfering in the final diagnosis. On the other hand, cone bean computed tomography (CBCT) and other dental software are important because they transform 2D images into 3D images, without deformation and overlaps, with precise measures and new visualization plans, which make correct diagnosis easier. A 53-year-old woman reported unspecific pain in maxillary anterior region. Clinical and periapical radiography exams did not show any problems. CBCT showed a line of coronary fracture in tooth 11. CBCT is very important for the development of a correct diagnosis of unspecific pain in teeth that suffered from trauma and were not diagnosed by conventional radiographic exams. Digital periapical radiographs are one of the exams of choice that enable the identification of dental fracture lines in some cases. However, because of it bidimensional nature, the overlap of other structures can occur, interfering in the final diagnosis. On the other hand, cone bean computed tomography (CBCT) and other dental software are important because they transform 2D images into 3D images, without deformation and overlaps, with precise measures and new visualization plans, which make correct diagnosis easier. A 53-year-old woman reported unspecific pain in maxillary anterior region. Clinical and periapical radiography exams did not show any problems. CBCT showed a line of coronary fracture in tooth 11. CBCT is very important for the development of a correct diagnosis of unspecific pain in teeth that suffered from trauma and were not diagnosed by conventional radiographic exams.