Implications of CBCT in Dentistry: A Review

Cone beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is acclaimed for its accuracy and diverse clinical utility. The benefits of good image quality, volumetric analysis, short scan times, and relatively less radiation dose than conventional medical CT, has resulted in greater ubiquity as an imaging modality within all disciplines of dentistry. It has become an important adjunct in orthodontic diagnosis due in part to the diverse image reconstructions available (cephalometrics, TMJ cross-sections, etc.), the ability to visualize bony levels, and the sub-millimeter accuracy enabling linear measurements. In particular, evaluating fine anatomical structures, like alveolar bone enveloping teeth, is important to the orthodontist for both initial diagnostic knowledge and outcome assessment. The ability to characterize duccal bone has clear benefits for practitioners in periodontics and implant dentistry as well.