Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Endodontics

Jo,  Hyoung-Hoon

J Korean Dent Assoc > Volume 57(7); 2019 > Article

The Journal of The Korean Dental Association 2019;57(7):392-402.
Published online July 31, 2019.

근관치료 영역에서 Cone Beam CT의 활용

조형훈

조선대학교 치과대학 치과보존학교실

Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Endodontics

Hyoung-Hoon Jo

Department of Conservative Dentistry, School of Dentistry, Chosun University

Abstract

The most important part of everyday root canal treatment is diagnosis about the morphology of tooth, root and root canal. Usually this procedure is performed by visual examination and radiographic (panoramic/periapical) examination. However, 2-dimentional radiography has several limitations such as imposition of anatomic structures including buccal/lingual root canals and distortion of images. Recently, owing to the increased interest in dental implant and affordable cost of CBCT equipment, CBCT has been introduced widely in local dental clinics. CBCT is characterized by their lower radiation dose and shorter exposure time than conventional CT scan, and ability of 3-dimentional reconstruction of the dento-alveolar structure. Also in endodontic field, the data from CBCT could be very helpful in diagnosing complex root canal anatomy, apical periodontitis, cause of failure and in determining treatment plan. However, there are some limitations such as radiation dose and artifact. Therefore, clinicians should know about indication, advantages and limitations of CBCT, and properly use it for successful root canal treatment to save the natural teeth.

Key Words: Cone beam computed tomography;Endodontics;