The potential applications of cone beam computed tomography in the management of endodontic problems

Aim To provide core information on cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology and its potential applications in endodontic practice. Summary CBCT has been specifically designed to produce undistorted three-dimensional information of the maxillofacial skeleton as well as three-dimensional images of the teeth and their surrounding tissues. This is usually achieved with a substantially lower effective dose compared with conventional medical computed tomography (CT). Periapical disease may be detected sooner using CBCT compared with periapical views, and the true size, extent, nature and position of periapical and resorptive lesions can be assessed. Root fractures, root canal anatomy and the true nature of the alveolar bone topography around teeth may be assessed. CBCT scans are desirable to assess posterior teeth prior to periapical surgery, as the thickness of the cortical and cancellous bone can be accurately determined as can the inclination of roots in relation to the surrounding jaw. The relationship of anatomical structures such as the maxillary sinus and inferior dental nerve to the root apices may also be clearly visualized. CBCT has a low effective dose in the same order of magnitude as conventional dental radiographs. Key learning points CBCT has a low effective dose in the same order of magnitude as conventional dental radiographs. CBCT has numerous potential applications in the management of endodontic problems.