Background:
The cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) technology has continuously
evolved since its appearance in oral medicine in the early 2000s.
Objective:
To present recent advances in CBCT in oral medicine: i) selection of recent and consensual
evidence-based sources, ii) structured summary of the information based on an iterative
framework and iii) compliance with ethical, public health and patient-centered concerns.
Main Findings:
We will focus on technological advances, such as sensors and reconstruction algorithms
used to improve the constant quality of the image and dosimetry. CBCT examination is now
performed in almost all disciplines of oral medicine: currently, the main clinical disciplines that use
CBCT acquisitions are endodontics and oral surgery, with clearly defined indications. Periodontology
and ear, nose and throat medicine are more recent fields of application. For a given application
and indication, the smallest possible field of view must be used. One of the major challenges in
contemporary healthcare is ensuring that technological developments do not take precedence over
admitted standards of care. The entire volume should be reviewed in full, with a systematic approach.
All findings are noted in the patient’s record and explained to the patient, including incidental
findings. This presupposes the person reviewing the images is sufficiently trained to interpret
such images, inform the patient and organize the clinical pathway, with referrals to other
medical or oral medicine specialties as needed.
Conclusion:
A close collaboration between dentists, medical physicists, radiologists, radiographers
and engineers is critical for all aspects of CBCT technology.