Oral Health and Dental Management

Abstract

Current status of CBCT in orthodontics

Sinny Goel

Introduction: Cone beam CT (CBCT) has become an increasingly important source of three dimensional (3D) volumetric data in clinical orthodontics since its introduction into dentistry in 1998. The purpose of this presentation will be to highlight the current understanding of, and evidence for, the clinical use of CBCT in orthodontics, and to review the findings to answer clinically relevant questions. Currently available information: will be assessed to understand 1, the CBCT technology; 2, its use in craniofacial morphometric analyses; 3, incidental and missed findings; 4, analysis of treatment outcomes; and 5, efficacy of CBCT in diagnosis and treatment planning.
Questions to be answered: about the current indications and protocols for the use of CBCT in specific cases.
a) How much data do we need
b) How large an area do you wish to evaluate
c) Do I really require CBCT for diagnostic task
d) Are you comfortable diagnosing all the data in the volume.
e) What is your risk of missing an important occult finding
Current indications and protocols: CBCT use has been well documented in select cases like- cleft palate patients, assessment of unerupted tooth position, supernumerary teeth, identification of root resorption and for planning orthognathic surgery, airway analysis; where conventional radiography cannot supply satisfactory diagnostic information. The need to image other types of cases should be made on a case-by-case basis following an assessment of benefits vs risks of scanning in these situations. Where do we stand in current scenario: In current times of COVID-19 and advanced CBCT software protocols and practical aspects of technology need to be revisited; such as use of 2D radiography as an alternative tool for diagnosis is no more a safe technique, also least of chairside time needed can only be accorded by 3D image data .

Published Date: 2020-10-29; Received Date: 2020-10-16