Cone Beam Computed Tomography Radiography Research Articles

Mesiodens: the most common case of hyperdontia – presentation of radiological cases

Mesiodens is the most common case of supernumerary teeth. It is a very usual developmental abnormality of permanent dentition, either accompanied or not by painful symptomatology and other pathological findings. Mesiodens are often detected by chance, through patients' radiological examination for other reasons. So, radiology and its methods assist in the radiographic estimation of a mesiodens. The purpose of this study is to present the valuable contribution of oral radiology in detecting asymptomatic mesiodens and determining their exact position. Four radiological cases have been chosen for this study. The four patients belong to different age groups (29, 9, 64 and 71 years old accordingly) and are of both genders. Each one came to the School of Dentistry for different dental treatments. Three different radiological technoques of oral radiology have been applied for their examination, namely periapical, panoramic and cone-beam computed tomography radiographs. In all cases, the mesiodens were impacted and asymptomatic, thus detected by chance through the conducted radiographic evaluation. In case of mesiodens, radiology contributes significantly in determining the tooth's characteristics, as in most cases the mesiodens is impacted. All eadiographic methodologies presented in this studyare essential not only for the diagnosis, but also for the surgical management of mesiodens. In case of prosthodontic treatment in edentulous patients, orthodontic treatment or at the presence of pathological findings, the impacted mesiodens should be extracted, Otherwise, the decision depends on the clinical and radiological findings.

Comparative efficacy of digital panoramic radiograph and cone beam computed tomography in locating mandibular foramen.

The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of panoramic radiographs (PAN) with cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in locating the position of the mandibular foramen (MF). A total of 100 patients who underwent CBCT and panoramic imaging were included in the study. The location of the MF was evaluated anterior-posteriorly and superior-inferiorly on both CBCT and panoramic radiographs. Measurements were taken by two examiners, reviewed by a radiologist, and intra-examiner variability was assessed. A comparison of statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U test, independent and paired t-test. A p-value ≤0.05 was deemed significant. The mean age of the patients was 35.03 years, with 51% females and 49% males. CBCT and panoramic radiographs showed comparable accuracy in locating the left (p=0.937) and right (p=0.371) MF anterior-posteriorly. In the superior-inferior dimension, the accuracy of CBCT and panoramic radiographs were comparable in locating the right (p=0.292) and left (p=0.640) MF. The gender-based accuracy of PAN and CBCT radiographs in locating the right (p=0.353) and left (p=0.985) MF was comparable. The study concludes that panoramic radiographs showed comparable accuracy in effectively locating MF in comparison to CBCT. The influence of gender and anatomic location (right and left sides of MF) on MF identification with panoramic radiographs was insignificant. Digital panoramic radiographs are an effective tool in accurately identifying MF location in clinical practice.

Comparison of 3D Easy Box cone-beam computed tomography analysis with 2D Modified Easy Box on OPG as a prognostic tool for impacted maxillary canines: A pilot study.

To assess and compare the validity of 2D modified Easy Box and measurement of the Beta angle on standard conventional orthopantomogram (OPG) versus 3D cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) OPG-constructed view. A retrospective agreement study. The aim of this study was to construct an Easy Box on a standard conventional OPG and to validate this novel method by comparing it with the Easy Box method on 3D CBCT. After approval from the Ethics Committee, OPG and CBCT radiographs were obtained for the study from departmental records and five private practices in the same location (Indore, India). The radiographs were selected based on record availability and with written consent from the participants before the commencement of the study. The records were analysed to enable a comparison and to assess the accuracy of Easy Box construction on both 3D CBCT and standard conventional OPG radiographs. The location of the impacted canine within the Easy Box boundaries and the measurement of the Beta angle were determined on both views. A perfect agreement was obtained for the comparison of 3D Easy Box CBCT analysis with 2D modified Easy Box on OPG for impacted maxillary canines (Kappa = 1.0). A Bland-Altman (LoA) analysis showed no proportional bias in the comparison of the Beta angle on 3D and 2D OPG radiographs. Beta angle and 2D modified Easy Box on a conventional OPG yield similar results when compared to Easy Box on 3D CBCT OPG-constructed view. The standard OPG was valuable and cost-effective, particularly in the early stages of diagnosis and treatment planning, either as a substitute or when CBCT was unavailable.

Prevalence of Incidental Findings in Oral and Maxillofacial Cone-Beam Computed Tomography: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Abstract Background: As the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is increasing and the quality of images is enhanced, the likelihood of incidental findings detection in CBCT radiographs is raised. Variable frequency of incidental findings on oral and maxillofacial CBCT scans has been reported. Aims: To perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to resolve the conflicting results about the overall prevalence of incidental findings in oral and maxillofacial CBCT scans. Methods: We searched the literature in PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases from inception to 31 October 2022 to identify studies that reported the frequency of incidental findings in the subjects undergoing CBCT imaging. We pooled the extracted data and reported the estimates as a percent with a 95% confidence interval (CI). Results: A total of 21 eligible studies were included, comprising 9,788 patients (54.2% women) and 10,625 CBCT scans. Analysis showed that the incidental findings were present in 69.1% (95% CI: 55.6-80.0) of the CBCT scans. There were 1.48 incidental findings per CBCT scan. Pooled prevalence of incidental findings in men was 50.2% (95% CI: 23.1-77.3), which was higher than in women (41.8% [95% CI: 16.5-72.2]). Conclusion: A considerable prevalence of incidental findings was observed in oral and maxillofacial CBCT scans.

Tips for viewing and interpreting cone beam computed tomography radiographs in orthodontics

Tips for viewing and interpreting cone beam computed tomography radiographs in orthodontics

Comparison of the Anatomy and Adaptability of Reconstructed Teeth with Natural Teeth: An Innovative Approach in Forensic Dentistry

Abstract Background: Forensic tooth reconstruction is the technique of reconstructing the morphology of a missing tooth from the intra-alveolar morphology of dental sockets from skeletal remains. Aims and Objectives: The aim and objective of the study are to compare and investigate whether the anatomy and adaptability of reconstructed teeth simulate with the natural tooth and to investigate whether the dental materials have potential in reconstruction of teeth. Materials and Methods: An in vitro experimental study was undertaken on a human mandible. According to the Fédération Dentaire Internationale, charting will be done based on the number of teeth present. The entire study will be conducted in three phases using dental materials. Phase 1 comprised preparation for negative replica, where an impression will be taken, Phase 2 comprised preparation of a positive replica or cast, and Phase 3 comprised tooth reconstruction using the flowable composite. Results: The specimen tooth (which had been taken from its socket) and the newly constructed tooth were compared, and when the length of the newly constructed root was measured using digital vernier calipers, there was a disparity of 0.5–1 mm. The cone-beam computed tomography radiographs demonstrated the necessary flexibility. Conclusion: The present study demonstrated that dental information can be obtained even when teeth are absent postmortem by making an attempt to recreate the teeth using dental materials while documenting the intra-alveolar anatomy of the dental root socket.

Accuracy of facial skeletal surfaces segmented from CT and CBCT radiographs

The accuracy of three-dimensional (3D) facial skeletal surface models derived from radiographic volumes has not been extensively investigated yet. For this, ten human dry skulls were scanned with two Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) units, a CT unit, and a highly accurate optical surface scanner that provided the true reference models. Water-filled head shells were used for soft tissue simulation during radiographic imaging. The 3D surface models that were repeatedly segmented from the radiographic volumes through a single-threshold approach were used for reproducibility testing. Additionally, they were compared to the true reference model for trueness measurement. Comparisons were performed through 3D surface approximation techniques, using an iterative closest point algorithm. Differences between surface models were assessed through the calculation of mean absolute distances (MAD) between corresponding surfaces and through visual inspection of facial surface colour-coded distance maps. There was very high reproducibility (approximately 0.07 mm) and trueness (0.12 mm on average, with deviations extending locally to 0.5 mm), and no difference between radiographic scanners or settings. The present findings establish the validity of lower radiation CBCT imaging protocols at a similar level to the conventional CT images, when 3D surface models are required for the assessment of facial morphology.

A Comparison between Saudi Dental Students' Knowledge of CBCT and Intraoral Radiographs: A Cross-Sectional Study

Intraoral radiography is integral to dental diagnosis while cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) provides enhanced 3D visualization. We aimed to assess and compare knowledge regarding CBCT and intraoral radiography among 386 Saudi dental undergraduates via a cross-sectional questionnaire. Nearly all participants successfully identified bitewing (99%), periapical (97%) and CBCT (98%) images, indicating strong familiarity. However, only 6% had clinically utilized CBCT versus 80% using intraoral radiography. Just 14% received CBCT training compared to 65% trained in intraoral radiography. Most appropriately recognized children as the most radiation-sensitive group (47%) and recommended limited CBCT (62%) and intraoral (37%) radiographs monthly per ALARA principles. Root canal treatment (44%) and implant planning (29%) were the most common CBCT referral indications. Key barriers to routine CBCT implementation included high costs (67%), difficulty (16%), and insufficient training (14%). Advantages perceived were reduced radiation (17%), rapid imaging (38%), and lack of film processing (24%). Results highlight excellent conceptual understanding but limited practical experience and training in CBCT compared to intraoral radiography among Saudi dental students. Targeted education programs integrating hands-on CBCT exposure with training in radiation safety and appropriate use are warranted to support optimal future clinical adoption.

Probing Depth and Peri-implant Health as Related to Buccal and Lingual Bone Thickness Around Dental Implants: An Experimental Study.

A retrospective chart review was conducted of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images captured between November 2019 and April 2021 on patients who underwent dental implant placement and had a periodontal charting. The buccal and lingual bone thickness around the implants was measured as an average of three measurements taken from the buccal and lingual aspects of implants. Implants with peri-implantitis were placed in group 1 while implants with peri-implant mucositis or peri-implant health were placed in group 2. A Wilcoxon Rank-Sum test was used to compare the differences between the bone thickness between the two groups. RESULTS: A total of 93 CBCT radiographs were screened, resulting in the analysis of 15 CBCT images that contained both a dental implant and a corresponding periodontal charting. Of the 15 dental implants examined, five implants presented with peri-implantitis, one with peri-implant mucositis and nine with peri-implant health, rendering a percentage of patients with peri-implantitis at 33%. Within the limitations of this study, buccal bone thickness averaging ≥1.10 mm or midlingual probing depths (PDs) ≤3.4 mm correlates with a more favorable peri-implant response. Larger studies are needed to substantiate these findings.

The Impact of Maxillary Sinus Pneumatization on the Quality of the Alveolar Bone in Dentated and Edentulous Patients: A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Radiographic Analysis.

Background This study aimed todescribe the morphometric differencesof maxillary alveolar bone's height, width, and densitometric differences in the posterior region where maxillary sinus pneumatization occurred. Methodology A cross-sectional, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) study used 123 CBCT images as a non-randomized convenient sample of sinus pneumatized cases. Bone height, bone width (in mm), and average density of the remaining ridge of all patients were used as study variables. Analysis of the qualitative variables were as frequency and percentages. Parametric Student's t-test and non-parametric chi-squared tests were used to compare the groups. The significance level was set at a p-value ≤0.05. Results The sample included CBCT radiographs for patients who had a mean age of 42.79 ± 12.32 with males constituting 69 (56.1%) of the patients. There was no gender difference between the present and missing teeth at the measured sites of the first premolar, second premolar, first molar, and second molar (p > 0.05). The mean measurements of height and average bone density were significantly higher in the dentate sites; however, the mean width was higher in the edentulous sites (p = 0.001). Conclusions Average bone height and density were significantly decreased at the edentulous sites of sinus pneumatized cases than the dentate sites with no gender difference.

The Suitability of Trabecular Patterns in the Assessment of Dental Implant Osseointegration Process through 2D Digital and 3D CBCT Radiographs.

The research aims to determine the suitability of the trabecular pattern in the assessment of the dental implant osseointegration process through two-dimensional (2D) digital and three-dimensional (3D) cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs. This is a correlation description that explains the relationship between variables. The population consisted of 24 data points on 3D CBCT and 2D digital radiographs from the procedure after dental implants were inserted into the tibia of a New Zealand white rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) on days 3, 14, and 28. The radiograph was selected based on the region of interest (ROI), which covers the peri-implant area with a width of 1 mm and length following the height of the implant. The ROI was analyzed for trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), separation (Tb.Sp), number (Tb.N), and fractal dimension. The intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to statistically test the data to assess the consistency of intraobserver measurements and the r value (Pearson's correlation coefficient). This determines the correlation between trabecular patterns in both radiographic modalities and the Bland-Altman plot to observe the limits of acceptable discrepancies. The ICC test showed high intraobserver consistency in trabecular pattern measurements on 2D digital radiographs and 3D CBCT. The trabecular space pattern and number showed an r value of 0.88 with radiographic modalities of 0.72 mm and 0.018, respectively. Additionally, the trabecular thickness and fractal dimension had an insignificant correlation, with an r value of 0.22, and the mean of the 2D radiograph was lower than that of CBCT. The 2D radiograph and 3D CBCT showed correlations in the trabecular number and space results but had no correlation in the trabecular thickness and fractal dimension results. Based on intraclass correlation analysis, 3D CBCT appeared to be more reliable for measuring trabecular patterns (Tb.Th, Tb.Sp, Tb.N, and fractal dimension) than 2D radiograph.

Prevalence and Morphology of the Middle Mesial Canal in the First and Second Mandibular Molars Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Introduction: Understanding of the normal anatomy of the teeth as well as the anatomical variations of each tooth and between different teeth is a prerequisite for successful endodontic treatment, and errors in this area can lead to treatment failures .The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and morphology of the middle mesial canal in the first and second mandibular molars using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in the population of Isfahan City and its relationship with the distance between the orifice canals.
 Methods: This retrospective descriptive study examined 180 reconstructed CBCT radiographs in modified axial, coronal, and sagittal sections, and evaluated the number, location, and morphology of the canals and the spacing of the orifices.
 Results: 47.5% of participants had left-side first molars with three canals and 48% had right-side first molars with three canals.46.1% had a second molar on left-side with three canals and 46% had a right-side three canal second molar. 1% of participants had four canals in the left-side first molars and 1% had four canals in the right-side first molars.
 Conclusion: The middle mesial canal is more likely to be near the mesiobuccal and mesiolingual canals. The highest prevalence is in the right-side first molar of women and the lowest is in the left-side second molar of men. Due to the low probability of the presence of this additional canal, careful examination of the patient's molar teeth before starting endodontic treatment is recommended.

Evaluation of diagnostic accuracy of CBCT and intraoral radiography for proximal caries detection in the presence of different dental restoration materials

PurposeThis study aimed to assess the diagnostic accuracy of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital intraoral radiography for the detection of proximal caries adjacent to amalgam, e.max porcelain, and metal-ceramic restorations (MCRs).Materials and methodsParallel intraoral radiographs were obtained from 40 posterior teeth using PSP sensors. To obtain CBCT scans, the teeth were first radiographed alone, and were then positioned next to a tooth with an amalgam restoration, MCR, and e.max porcelain crown, and radiographed again. Two blinded observers scored radiographs using a four-point scale (0: absence of proximal caries, 1: enamel caries, 2: carious lesion extending to the outer half of dentin, 3: carious lesion extending to the inner half of dentin). Tooth sections were made, and the grade of caries was determined under a light microscope at x12 magnification. The sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy of CBCT and intraoral radiographs were then calculated.ResultsArtifact-free CBCT scans and intraoral radiographs had the highest diagnostic accuracy (0.826 and 0.657, respectively) while CBCT images of the teeth next to the amalgam restorations (0.526) had the lowest accuracy. The diagnostic accuracy of CBCT images of the teeth next to the porcelain crowns and MCRs was 0.613 and 0.601, respectively.ConclusionArtifact-free CBCT images had higher diagnostic accuracy than intraoral radiography for the detection of all grades of proximal caries. The diagnostic accuracy of CBCT images of teeth adjacent to amalgam, porcelain, and MCRs was lower compared to intraoral radiographs and artifact-free CBCT images.

A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY OF ARTIFACTS IN CONE BEAM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY IMAGES OF PATIENTS IN A HOSPITAL

Introduction:In the field of dentistry, cone beam computed tomography is frequently used as a method of research. Although it provides a three-dimensional image of the head and neck structures, there are drawbacks in the form of artifacts that reduce image clarity and force the patient to undergo another radiograph, increasing their exposure to radiation. The purpose of this research was to determine the prevalence of artifacts in cone beam computed tomography images of patients who were visiting a hospital. Methods:All cone beam computed tomography radiographs of patients between June 2020 and March 2023 were included in a descriptive cross-sectional study on patient cone beam CT images in the dental radiology archives at the Department of Dentistry. There were 780 patient images in the research. When present, the artifacts were recorded and classified as inherent, procedure-related, introduced, and patient motion artifacts. Calculations included a point estimate and a 95% Confidence Interval. Results:There were artifacts in 665 (85.25%) (82.76-87.74, 95% Confidence Interval) of the 780-cone beam computed tomography image subjects. Conclusions:Patients cone beam computed tomography images typically contain artifacts, which is consistent with research conducted in related environments.

Comparing Operators and Imaging Techniques When Performing Trans-Crestal Sinus Augmentation: A Pilot Study.

The aim of this article was to compare baseline residual ridge height using Cone-beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and panoramic radiographs. A secondary aim was to examine the magnitude of vertical bone gain 6 months after trans-crestal sinus augmentation and compare it between operators. Thirty patients, who underwent trans-crestal sinus augmentation simultaneously with dental implant placement, were included in this retrospective analysis. Surgeries were done by 2 experienced surgeons (EM and EG) using the same surgical protocol and materials. Preoperative residual ridge height was measured on panoramic and CBCT images. The final bone height and the magnitude of the vertical augmentation were measured on panoramic X ray taken 6 months after surgery. Mean residual ridge height measured preoperatively using CBCT was 6.07 ± 1.38 mm, whereas these same measurements on the panoramic radiographs yielded similar results (6.08 ± 1.43 mm), which were statistically insignificant (P = .535). Postoperative healing was uneventful in all cases. All 30 implants were successfully osseointegrated at 6 months. The mean overall final bone height was 12.87 ± 1.39 mm (12.61 ± 1.21 and 13.39 ± 1.63 mm for operators EM and EG, respectively; P = .19). Likewise, mean postoperative bone height gain was 6.78 ± 1.57 mm, which was 6.68 ± 1.32 and 6.99 ± 2.06 mm for operators EM and EG, respectively (P = .66). A moderate positive correlation was found between residual bone height and final bone height (r = 0.43, P = .002). A moderate negative correlation was found between residual bone height and augmented bone height (r = -0.53, P = .002). Sinus augmentation performed trans-crestally produce consistent results with minimal interoperator differences between experienced clinicians. Both CBCT and panoramic radiographs produced similar assessment of the preoperative residual bone height.

Artifacts among Cone Beam Computed Tomography Images of Patients of Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study

Cone beam computed tomography is widely used as a mode of investigation in the field of dentistry. Although presenting a three-dimensional picture of head and neck structures it does carry drawbacks in the form of artifacts which not only degrade image quality but a repeat of the radiograph leading the patient to radiation exposure again. This study aimed to find out the prevalence of artifacts among cone beam computed tomography images of patients visiting tertiary care centre. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on cone beam computed tomography images of patients in the archives of dental radiology at the Department of Oral Medicine and Radiology wherein all cone beam computed tomography radiographs of patients after taking an ethical approval from Institutional Review Committee from 1 January 2019 to 19 March 2022 were included in the study. The study included 780 image of patients. Convenience sampling was used. The artifact when present was noted and categorised as inherent artifacts, procedure-related artifacts, introduced artifacts and patient motion artifacts. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated. Among 780 cone beam computed tomography image patients, artifacts were seen in 665 (85.25%) (82.76-87.74, 95% Confidence Interval) study images. The prevalence of artifacts among cone beam computed tomography images of patients is similar to the studies done in similar settings. artefact; cone beam computed tomography; radiation.

Clinical Finding of Inert Collagen Sponge Saturated by Remineralizing Solution from Eggshell Powder versus Ca-OH in Indirect Pulp Capping Measured by Cone Beam Computed Tomography Radiograph

Clinical Finding of Inert Collagen Sponge Saturated by Remineralizing Solution from Eggshell Powder versus Ca-OH in Indirect Pulp Capping Measured by Cone Beam Computed Tomography Radiograph

A comparative analysis of periapical status by using cone beam computed tomography and periapical radiography.

The aim of this study was to compare the periapical status of different teeth by using the Periapical (Pa) and the cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiographs. Pa and CBCT radiographs were obtained from the patients who required Endodontic treatment. The absence and presence of periapical lesions were investigated using both Pa and CBCT radiographs. Periodontal conditions other than periapical lesions were also observed by using both radiographs and recorded. Cohen's Kappa analysis was performed to observe the inter-rater and intra-rater reliability. Descriptive statistics including frequency and percentages of presence and absence of periapical lesions were analyzed. Independent t-test was conducted to compare the Pa and CBCT for the detection of periapical lesions. Chi-square test was used to investigate the distribution of gender and periapical lesions by both radiographs. A total of 204 teeth from 72 patients (29 female and 43 male) were assessed via CBCT and Pa radiographs. Inter-observer and intra-observer reliability showed the absolute level of agreement. T-test showed there is significant difference between Pa and CBCT radiographs regarding detecting periapical lesions. Chi-square test showed no significant differences between the gender and apical pathosis. CBCT is more reliable to detect periapical lesions compared to the Pa radiographs.

Mental Nerve Anterior Loop Detection in Panoramic and Cone Beam Computed Tomography Radiograph for Safe Dental Implant Placement.

Background and aim Different imaging modalities have been used as preoperative assessment tools since the emergence of dental implants. This study aimed to compare the detection and presence of mental nerve anterior loop in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) radiograph and panoramic radiograph. Material and methods A descriptive, retrospective study was done. The optimal sample size was calculated using Epi Info software. According to the studypopulation (795), the sample size was 259 cases which gave 95% power of the study. A previously taken CBCT and digital panoramic radiographs from the database of Taibah University Dental School and Hospital were observed by two trained and calibrated examiners to determine the presence of a mental nerve anterior loop and compare the two modalities. The mean length of the mental nerve anterior loop was also assessed. Results Mental nerve anterior loops were detected bilaterally in 57.1%and 17.4%using CBCT and panoramic radiographs, respectively. In CBCT, the right side (20.8%) had a higher prevalence of mental nerve anterior loop than the left side (12%). The mental nerve anterior loop was not visible in 49.4%of the cases using a panoramic radiograph, while CBCT gave 10%of cases as not visible. The mental nerve anterior loop average length was 1.8 ± 0.35mm and the width was 1.7 ± 0.28 mm. The average distance from the mental foramen to the inferior border of the mandible was 12.1 ± 0.87 mm and the average distance from the mental frogmen to the mandibular midline was 25.1 ± 0.68 mm. Conclusion As differences between CBCT and panoramic radiographs were statistically significant, CBCT is more accurate and reliable. CBCT is recommended to be used as a preoperative assessment tool to minimize nerve injury-related surgical complications during implant placement at the mandibular premolar area.

Evaluation of rapid versus slow maxillary expansion in early adolescent patients with skeletal maxillary constriction using cone-beam computed tomography: A short-term follow-up randomized controlled trial.

Maxillary expansion is one of the treatment options for the correction of the skeletal constriction of the upper jaw. However, evidence regarding the best treatment effects with the use of rapid vs. slow maxillary expansion in the early adolescence period (i.e., between the age of 12 and 16 years) is still lacking in the available literature. The aim of the present study was to investigate the effectiveness of rapid and slow maxillary expansion in treating posterior skeletal constriction, and to compare the 2 techniques in terms of skeletal and dentoalveolar changes by using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). The sample consisted of 34 patients (15 males and 19 females) suffering from posterior skeletal constriction. They were randomly allocated either to the rapid maxillary expansion (RME) group (17 patients aged 13.76 ±0.32 years) or to the slow maxillary expansion (SME) group (17 patients aged 14.02 ±0.28 years). The skeletal and dental landmarks, and changes in the posterior dimensions were examined using CBCT radiographs at the beginning of treatment (T1) and at the end of the observation period (T2). There were no significant differences between the 2 groups in terms of skeletal and dental changes except the amount of change in the inter-premolar width at the root apex, which was greater in the SME group (p = 0.007), as well as the amount of change in the skeletal palatal width in the molar region, which was also greater in the SME group (p = 0.008). Both maxillary expansion protocols were effective in treating posterior skeletal constriction. The average changes in the skeletal and dental widths were generally similar in both groups. Therefore, SME can be considered as an alternative to RME in patients with skeletal maxillary constriction in the early adolescence period.