Dental tomography is an advanced imaging method that allows detailed examination of the teeth and maxillofacial region. This technology, known as cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), provides three-dimensional, high-precision images. It is used in many areas, including implant planning, jawbone evaluation, impacted tooth analysis, and the detection of pathological formations. CBCT provides the anatomical information necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. However, due to factors such as radiation exposure and cost, it should only be used in cases of absolute need. This method plays a significant role in dental practice and is one of the most effective tools offered by modern technology.
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| Definition | It is a radiological examination method that provides detailed three-dimensional images of the teeth and jaw area. |
| Areas of Use | Implant planning, evaluation of impacted teeth, diagnosis of jaw bone diseases, detection of cysts and tumors, detailed examination before root canal treatment, orthodontic planning. |
| Advantages | High-resolution and detailed imaging, bone density measurement, and precise diagnosis with low radiation dose. |
| Who is it Applied to? | Patients planning implant treatment, individuals with abnormalities in their jaw and teeth, patients undergoing orthodontic treatment, and patients with temporomandibular joint disorders. those. |
| Scan Duration | It usually takes between 10-20 seconds. |
| Radiation Dose | It may be lower than a traditional CT scan, but slightly higher than a panoramic X-ray. |
| Is Special Preparation Required? | No special preparation is generally required. Metal accessories and jewelry should be removed. |
| Side Effects | It is not recommended for pregnant women due to radiation exposure. Other than this, there are no known side effects. |
What is Dental CT Scanning and How Does It Work?
Dental CT scanning is a medical imaging method that provides detailed three-dimensional images of the teeth and maxillofacial region. Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) devices provide fast and precise results using specialized X-ray technology:
- Creates a cone beam of X-rays
- Rotates 180-360 degrees around the patient
- Creates two-dimensional images
- Images are processed with computer software
- Creates a three-dimensional volumetric dataset
With this method, cross-sections can be taken in the axial, coronal, and sagittal planes, enabling clear examination of complex anatomical structures. CBCT, a frequently preferred technique in dentistry, offers effectiveness in a variety of applications.
The most significant advantage of CBCT is its detailed three-dimensional imaging. Its lower radiation dose compared to traditional methods is important for patient safety. However, disadvantages such as low soft tissue contrast and high device costs should also be considered. However, the benefits it provides for accurate and effective diagnosis largely offset these disadvantages.
In What Situations Is Dental CT Used?
It contributes to accurate diagnosis and treatment planning by providing a detailed examination of the jaw and teeth. Dental tomography is used in the following situations:
- Implant planning and evaluation
- Detection of impacted teeth
- Analysis of complex root canals
- Orthodontic treatment planning
- Examination of jaw cysts and tumors
- Diagnosis of temporomandibular joint disorders
- Evaluation of post-traumatic fractures and injuries
- Detailed imaging of the maxillary sinuses
This technology goes beyond traditional two-dimensional imaging in dentistry and offers three-dimensional analysis. This allows for more precise determination of the location, size, and relationship of anatomical structures. Vital structures, such as nerves and vessels, are protected, making treatment processes safer.
What are the Advantages and Disadvantages of Dental Tomography?
Advantages:
- Three-dimensional imaging
- High resolution
- Accurate diagnosis
- Precise treatment planning
- Low radiation levels
- Fast scanning
- Painless procedure
Disadvantages:
- High cost
- Difficulty imaging soft tissues
- Need for experienced interpretation
- Motion artifacts
- Radiation mInterference
What Should a Patient Expect During a Dental CT Scan?
A dental CT scan is generally a quick and painless procedure, prioritizing patient comfort. All metal-containing accessories are removed before the procedure to avoid affecting imaging quality. The patient is positioned in a standing, sitting, or lying position, depending on the device type. Once positioned correctly, the device rotates around the head to capture images. It is important to remain still during the procedure to ensure clear images.
Items to remove before use:
- Jewelry
- Eyeglasses
- Other items containing metal
- Attachments used during positioning:
- Chin rest
- Head rest
The CT scanner’s rotation around your head can take 10-40 seconds. Since you’re not supposed to move, you’re expected to remain still during the procedure. Modern devices minimize this time, completing the procedure faster. There is no pain during the scan, and discomfort is generally minimal.
After the dental CT scan is completed, the resulting three-dimensional images are analyzed by your dentist or radiologist. These images play a critical role in many areas, including examining the jaw structure, detecting dental pathologies, and detailing treatment planning. After the procedure, the patient can immediately return to daily activities because it does not require any recovery.
Does Dental CT Scans Have a Radiation Risk?
Dental CT scans, particularly those using CBCT, provide detailed imaging of the teeth and jaw areas, but this procedure carries a certain radiation risk. Due to radiation-related biological effects and long-term risks, it is recommended to use this method with caution:
- It emits more radiation than conventional 2D dental X-rays.
- CBCT contains 5-16 times more radiation than standard dental X-rays.
- The total radiation dose is 96% lower than conventional CT.
- Ionizing radiation can cause tissue damage, including an increased risk of cancer.
- The thyroid gland is one of the most sensitive organs to radiation.
Several precautions should be taken to reduce radiation exposure when using CBCT. A small field of view (FOV), low mA settings, short exposure times, and narrow beam widths are recommended. These precautions are also particularly critical in sensitive groups such as children and pregnant women. Children are at higher risk of thyroid cancer, and radiation exposure during pregnancy can have serious consequences for the mother and fetus.
International standards advocate justifying medical procedures with a benefit-risk analysis. Therefore, CBCT should only be used in proven cases. Dentists should use proper planning and optimized device settings to minimize the harmful effects of radiation.
What are the Differences Between Dental Tomography and Panoramic X-Ray?
Dental CT scan (CBCT) and panoramic X-ray are two different imaging modalities used in dentistry for diagnosis and treatment planning. Both offer features suitable for different situations, and understanding these differences is important for choosing the right method.
Imaging Size and Type:
CBCT: Provides three-dimensional images.
Panoramic X-Ray: Provides two-dimensional general images.
Detail and resolution:
- CBCT: High resolution, suitable for fine details.
- Panoramic X-ray: Sufficient for general evaluation.
Radiation dose:
- CBCT: Contains higher radiation dose, but has decreased with new technologies.
- Panoramic X-ray: Contains lower radiation dose.
Applications:
- CBCT: Implant planning, temporomandibular joint disorders, complex cases.
- Panoramic X-ray: General dental status, impacted tooth analysis, orthodontic evaluation.
Distortions and errors:
- CBCT: Metal artifacts can be a problem.
- Panoramic X-ray: Distortion and magnification errors may occur.
Both methods It serves a variety of needs in dental practice. While CBCT is generally preferred for complex and detailed cases, panoramic X-ray is a more common and faster option.
How Are Dental CT Scan Results Interpreted?
Accurate interpretation of dental CT scan results is critical to the success of diagnosis and treatment. This interpretation process is performed by expert radiologists, and every detail is carefully analyzed:
- During the imaging phase, the position and root structure of the teeth
- Alveolar bone density and volume
- Location of the mandibular canal, sinus cavities, and nerves
- PeriodStructures such as the anterior ligament space are examined.
To identify pathological findings, CT scans analyze structures such as cysts and tumors, foci of infection, and periapical lesions. In cases of jaw and tooth trauma, the extent of fracture lines and the degree of damage are evaluated in detail. Furthermore, root canals and potential extra canals are identified before endodontic treatment:
- In orthodontic evaluation, impacted and supernumerary teeth
- The direction of tooth eruption
- Jaw relationships and skeletal anomalies are analyzed.
Dental CT scans, thanks to their high resolution, facilitate the visualization of small details. However, certain factors, such as metal restorations, can affect image quality. During the reporting process, CT scan results are combined with clinical findings to inform treatment planning.
