Volumetric 3D radiology applications in endodontics

A Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has submillimetric resolution and can thus show up details with great precision. In a study by Patel and Coll in 2009, it was shown that using cone beam analysis, it was possible to detect nearly 100% of apical lesions as opposed to 28% detected with traditional endoral x-rays. The repercussions for diagnosis and prognosis are obvious both in endodontics and periodontology not to mention other fields of dentistry.

     The most common applications of CBCT in the endodontic field are:

   - Identification and localisation of the apical lesions.
   - The identification of anatomical variations
   - The localisation of relationships between important
     anatomical structures
   - Internal and external root resorption
   - Perforations and root fractures
   - The identification of access to root canals
   - The facilitation of endodontic surgery



Continues on the book: Atlas of Cone Beam - Volumetric 3D Images - Edizioni BDD.