CBCT Advantages And Disadvantages

CBCT Advantages And Disadvantages

Write short answer on advantages and disadvantages of CBCT.
or
Discuss about CBCT. Write its advantages, disadvantages, indications and contraindications in dentistry.
Answer. Full form of CBCT is cone beam computerized tomography

CBCT introduces most complex and accurate imaging with 3D visualization as compared to routinely used analog and digital radiographs.

“Understanding the role of CBCT in modern dentistry: Q&A explained”

Advantages of CBCT

• Cone-beam computed tomography provides superior alternative technology for numerous complex interpretative procedures currently used, for example, in paralleling technique (SLOB rule) for location of foreign bodies or unerupted or impacted teeth. CBCT provides much more detail, added advantage of reduced exposure dose. Three dimensional nature of data obtained permits simple and direct visualization of structures of the complex maxillofacial anatomy.
• CBCT imaging is synchronized for craniofacial area, mainly for assessing bone and the dental hard tissue. Data acquired is compatible with commercial maxillofacial imaging softare available in the market for implant planning, orthodontic analysis, etc.

“Importance of studying CBCT advantages and disadvantages for better outcomes: Questions explained”

• X-ray beam limitation or collimation of primary beam is used to reduce the size of the irradiated area thereby minimizing the radiation dose. Most CBCT units have the facility for the operator to select the FOV as per the region prescribed by the dental surgeon. Hence, a small FOV can be adjusted to scan small regions for specifi diagnostic tasks and medium or large FOV for scanning the entire craniofacial complex.
• Image accuracy: CBCT units have isotropic voxel resolutions that are equal in all 3-D representing a precise degree of X-ray absorption. Size of these voxels regulates the resolution of the image. This produces submillimeter resolutions which are superior to the highest grade
• multislice CT ranging from 0.4 mm to 0.125 mm. Because of this characteristic and subsequent secondary (axial, coronal and sagittal) and MPR images realize a level of spatial resolution that is exact for measurement in maxillofacial applications where meticulous precision in all measurements is important for example facial growth in orthodontics analysis, implant site assessment, etc.

CBCT scan

• Rapid scan time: CBCT acquires all basis images in a single rotation, so scan time is less and subsequently motion artifacts due to subject movement are reduced. These scan times are analogous to conventional dental panoramic imaging and newer helical CT units.
• Dose reduction: There is up to 98% reduction in the effctive dose ofradiation when compared with medical CT systems which consequently reduces the effctive patient dose.
• Reduced image artifact: CBCT images provide superior quality images of the oral anatomy as the secondary reconstructions are tailored for especially viewing the teeth and jaws, resulting in a low level of metal artifact as compare to the streak artifacts in CT images.

“Common challenges in weighing CBCT pros and cons effectively: FAQs provided”

Cone Beam CT

• Interactive display modes applicable to maxillofacial imaging: CBCT provides exclusive images representing features in 3D that conventional and digital intraoral and extra-oral techniques cannot. CBCT units reconstruct the projection data to make available inter – relational images in threeorthogonal planes (axial, sagittl, and coronal). Cursor driven measurement algorithms deliver the clinician with an interactive capability for real-time dimensional assessment. Onscreen measurements offr distortion and magnifiation free dimensions.
• CBCT gives adequate information for dental procedures without the patient undergoing the claustrophobic CT procedure at a much reduced cost.

“Asymptomatic vs symptomatic effects of ignoring CBCT disadvantages: Q&A”

Disadvantages of CBCT

• Cost for equipment and imaging studies.
• Radiation dose is high as compared to conventional radiographs. For most CBCT systems, the kVp is fied, and the tube current (mA) and exposure time (s) can be varied depending on the desired image quality and patient size. In current dental CBCT practice, this is typically performed either manually or through the selection of preset exposure protocols.
• Relative sophistication of operation and requires skilled and experienced personnel for interpretation of the resultant data. Especially when using a smaller FOV, as it is easy to become confused when scrolling through the images, inadequate orientation with the anatomical structures can make points of reference such as normal dental landmarks or anomalous anatomy diffilt.

CBCT in dentistry

“Factors influencing success with CBCT implementation: Q&A”

• Cone-beam technology centered on an image intensifir may create distortion of periphery of images.
• Prolonged time is needed for image manipulation and interpretation.
• Artifact is one of the foremost factors in corrupting CBCT image quality and is thus a vital part in diagnostic precision.

Indications of CBCT

• In implant planning and anatomical considerations
  • It is indicated for cross-sectional imaging before implant placement as an alternative to existing cross sectional techniques where radiation dose of CBCT is shown to be lower.
  • It is also indicated in planning the precise implant position.
• In sinus lift procedures.
• In planning the templates
• In maxillofacial surgery.

“Early warning signs of issues addressed by CBCT advantages: Common questions”

Contraindications of CBCT

• Soft tissue pathology
  • TMJ discs
  • Vascular structures
  • Lymphatic structures
  • Muscles
  • Salivary glands: They would require sialography

CBCT uses in dental practice

“Steps to explain different CBCT applications: Orthodontics vs implantology: Q&A guide”

• Metal
  • Steel, gold and silver produce stronger artifacts than titanium or aluminum
  • Higher atomic number = more metal artifacts
• Non-displaced fractures in roots or bone
  • cannot visualize non-displaced fractures directly
  • Must look for secondary signs of fracture in the surrounding bone
• Caries
  • Cannot diagnose caries adjacent to metal restorations
• Bone loss adjacent to implants
  • Metal artifacts prevent evaluation of osseointegration

“Role of CBCT in diagnosing TMJ disorders: Questions answered”

• Patient factors
  • Age
  • Radiosensitivity (e.g. Gorlin-Goltz Syndrome)
  • Pregnancy
  • History of heavy radiation exposure
• Screening
  • CBCT is not a screening tool
  • There should be a diagnostic reason for the scan
• Reconstructing 2D images from 3D data

CBCT applications

One would not take a 3D image just to reconstruct a 2D panoramic/cephalogram, ifall you want is a 2D panoramic/ cephalogram.