Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Implant Dentistry- An update

Abstract

In the more than 20 years that cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has been available in dentistry, a lot has changed. The image quality has been greatly improved by better detectors and extraction algorithms. Moreover, the grading dose has been reduced by using pulsed beams, the possibility to select smaller fields of view and by the optimization of the reconstruction algorithms [1]. Most modern devices have many setting options, unlike the first generations of devices (Figure 1a and 1b). The field of view can be limited to 4x4cm or similar and the milliamperage, the number of basic projections, the spatial resolution, are all adjustable, so that the image quality and dose can be easily influenced. Something that is also required by the applicable guidelines. The devices have also become a lot more affordable over time. Actual equipment can be used for 2D and/or 3D images.