Research in Progress, but 3D Imaging Appears Highly Beneficial

Have any studies to date demonstrated that cone-beam CT (CBCT) has improved the quality in orthodontic, oral surgery, and dental care treatment when compared to conventional 2D films? Research is an ongoing process. Only a few studies have compared the clinical outcomes of using CBCT versus not using it. For example, Nickenig and colleagues evaluated the accuracy of implant placement after virtually planning the implant positions using CBCT data and a surgical guide template versus conventional free-hand methods ( J Craniomaxillofac Surg 2010; 38 [October]: 488-493). Twenty-three implants were placed in 10 patients using 3D CBCT data and surgical guides generated from that data. Manual implantation of the same implants was performed on anatomical casts of the same patients. The study's conclusion was that there was a significantly smaller variation between the planned and actual implant positions using the CBCT 3D-based guide versus free-hand implantation. We also know of several stu more...