Cone-beam computed tomography of the maxillofacial region--an update.

BACKGROUND

During the last few years, craniomaxillofacial diagnosis of the head has been confronted with an increasing number of innovations and improvements. The main progress occurred following the introduction of cone-beam technology in computed tomography in the 1990s. The number of manufacturers and devices using this technology for the maxillofacial region is growing rapidly and they are now becoming readily available.

MATERIALS: This article focuses on cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) devices applied to the maxillofacial region. CBCT serves as a bridge from two dimensions (2D) to three dimensions (3D), with lower irradiation than conventional CT. Different manufacturers and models are now available to satisfy the different needs of clinicians.

RESULTS

A recent review of the manufacturers found 23 CBCT devices on the market. The specifications, applications and other issues of currently available CBCT devices are presented and discussed.

CONCLUSIONS

3D imaging is developing at a very fast pace. New technologies and machines are emerging and CBCT is becoming readily available. Due to the growing demand for the technology based on the needs of clinicians, there is now a wide and growing selection of devices on the market. Some of the new advances now mean that CBCT imaging should be a well-considered option in maxillofacial imaging.