The use of three-dimensional reconstructions in the diagnosis of impacted teeth

Abstract

Numerous efforts have been made towards three-dimensional (3D) radiographic imaging in all fields of dentistry, ranging from oral surgery to orthodontics. Although computerized tomography (CT) has been available for quite some time now, its use in dentistry has always been limited because of cost, access, and dose considerations. In orthodontics, diagnosis and treatment planning has been based traditionally on 2D imaging, mainly cephalometric and panoramic radiographs. The introduction of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) represented a true revolution in dento-maxillofacial radiology, and a shift from 2D to 3D data acquisition, image reconstruction, and visualization. Therefore, CBCT has now been introduced in different areas of orthodontic diagnostic procedures and treatment planning: Evaluation of cleft palate patients, airway and soft tissue analysis, temporomandibular joint morphology assessment, diagnosis of bony asymmetry, localization of impacted teeth and detection of resorption of adjacent teeth. This book chapter gives an overview of the current literature regarding the present use of CBCT in the localization of impacted teeth for orthodontic purposes. The potential, advantages and disadvantages in the diagnosis of impacted teeth will be discussed, also using case examples from the clinical practice. © 2010, IGI Global.