Application of CBCT Technology in Forensic Odontology: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Cone-Beam Computer Tomography (CBCT) is a non-invasive, rapid, cost-effective, and low-radiation technique. Being a three-dimensional (3D) imaging process, it is better suited for the analysis of 3D structures like teeth, bones, or facial sinuses. CBCT is already widely used in dentistry and its application in forensic odontology is promising. This study aimed to provide an overview of CBCT use in forensic dentistry. A bibliographic search using PUBMED was performed with the following keyword combinations: ("Cone-Beam Computed Tomography"[MeSH Terms]) OR (cbct)) AND (forensic dentistry) OR ("Forensic Dentistry"[Mesh]) and on the Scopus platform using the keywords “cbct forensic dentistry”. Considering the inclusion and exclusion criteria, the final selection resulted in 68 studies. Articles subjects were as follows: 11 studies (16%) on comparative identification, 4 (5%) on identification by bitemarks, 30 (44%) on age estimation, 20 (29%) on sex estimation, and 7 (10%) on facial reconstruction. CBCT technology proved to be an accurate tool for age estimation (particularly in the pulp narrowing technique), sex estimation, bitemarks analysis, and facial reconstruction. CBCT's increasing use in dental clinics makes a huge quantity of data available. Professionals should examine how to organize and disseminate these valuable antemortem data. Training is mandatory to understand CBCT’s technical limitations as well as manage the presence of artifacts. Further studies should be made on larger samples to fully understand the potential of CBCT technology in forensics.