Science Letters

Role of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in the Domain of Orthodontics

Mehjabeen Al Jabri, Shuyu Guo, Yang Zhang, Lin Wang, Junqing Ma*

Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Oral Diseases, Nanjing Medical University, 210029, Nanjing, China

Abstract

In order to reduce the radiation exposure of the patients and to overcome the restrictions of conventional CT scanning, the craniofacial cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanning was introduced. For the oral and maxillofacial imaging, the New Tom (quantitative radiology, Verona, Italy) is prime profitable appropriated CBCT organization. New Tom VG is the fourth generation at present and it is approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). When compared to the traditional cephalograms, the analytical omission is low in CBCT images. By utilizing the various aspects such as volume rendered, shaded surface display and multi-planar through CBCT, the 3D analysis can be carried out. There are various types of software which can be utilized in the 3D analysis for different target evaluation in the craniofacial region such as Dolphin 3D, Mimics, on demand 3D, In vivo Dental, OS and ITK-snap. There has been a remarkable experience in imaging technique for orthodontics and dentistry by using CBCT scanner, which provides 3D data sets, unlike the conventional 2D radiography. CBCT is used in the diagnosis and treatment planning of various cases in orthodontics, such as evaluation of cleft palate, assessment of impacted teeth, evaluation of dental and skeletal structures, temporomandibular joint complex evaluation and assessment of the space needed for the placement of temporary anchorage devices, etc. In this article, we tried to share our ideas and insights about the advantages and disadvantages of CBCT organization which has come after revising many literature reviews of the concerned topics and also from the discussion with coauthors and colleagues.