Referral pattern to a university-based oral and maxillofacial cone beam CT service.

Abstract

Despite the rising popularity of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging in the field of dentistry, very few studies have addressed the questions of which dental specialties most frequently request CBCT images and which CBCT indications are most popular. This study attempts to answer both of these questions. CBCT request forms spanning a 1-year period were analyzed for data. Collected data included the specialty of the referring dentist and the referral reason. A total of 660 referral forms were analyzed. Oral and maxillofacial surgeons were the discipline to most commonly request CBCT examinations. Pretreatment evaluation of potential dental implant sites was the most common indication for requesting CBCT scans. All dental specialties refer patients for CBCT examinations but at different frequencies and for various reasons that pertain to their respective disciplines. Clinical significance: These findings should be the basis for customizing the availability and scope of imaging services and in developing and modifying educational programmes for dentists and dental specialists.