Imaging in implant dentistry has evolved dramatically in recent years. This has been dominated by the introduction, then an outburst in the use of cone beam computed tomography. CBCT is a simple technology that complemented conventional radiography and replaced multi-slice medical computed tomography. It allowed the dental team to access ‘on site’ efficient and powerful technology for the diagnosis, planning and management of patients undergoing implant dentistry. The lecture will provide a detailed understanding of the clinical applications of the CBCT in implants, the factors that optimise radiation dose and image quality and the various functions planning software packages. The talk also covers the legal aspects of prescribing, performing and reporting CBCT scans, and the current guidelines in relation to the training requirements for anyone using CBCT. The lecture will also explore the future of CBCT in implant dentistry in the wake of the new MRI developments.
Learning Objectives:
- To understand the principles of CBCT
- To be aware of the current applications of CBCT in implant dentistry
- To understand the optimisation of CBCT radiation dose
- To understand the optimisation of image quality
- To understand the balance between dose and image quality
- To be able to identify the various legal positions of responsibility relating to the use of CBCT
- To be aware of the current training requirements to refer, perform and read a CBCT scan
- To be able to assess the future of CBCT: is MRI a threat to the existence of CBCT?