TITLE:
Clinical Endodontic Applications of Cone Beam-Computed Tomography in Modern Dental Practice
AUTHORS:
Johnah C. Galicia, Jeffrey Kawilarang, Peter Z. Tawil
KEYWORDS:
Endodontics, Cone-Beam Computed Tomography, Case Reports, Radiography
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Stomatology,
Vol.7 No.7,
July
21,
2017
ABSTRACT: Nearly two decades since Cone Beam-Computed Tomography (CBCT) was introduced in dentistry, this technology has been proven to be a useful asset in modern dental practice. The information gleaned from a CBCT scan influences treatment decisions and prognostication of challenging endodontic cases. The authors present six cases that utilized CBCT to diagnose vertical root fracture, to assess resorption, to guide the clinician in overcoming anatomical complexities, to hurdle diagnostic dilemmas and to perform pre-surgical evaluation. Initially, a thorough clinical assessment was performed; however, conventional periapical radiographs were not able to provide sufficient information to arrive at a definite diagnosis or a thorough treatment plan. CBCT was therefore deemed helpful for these cases. Clearly, there are advantages to using CBCT. With a better understanding of each case, the clinician can plan a definitive treatment plan and offer a clearer case prognosis to their patient.