Changing trend from CT to CBCT in maxillofacial radiology

Imaging is an important diagnostic adjunct to the clinical assessment of the dental patients. Since the discovery of x-rays, with various array of imaging modalities, dental radiology has played a revolutionary role in determining diagnosis, treatment plan and prognostic value of various human diseases. Numerous efforts have been made towards 3D radiographic imaging like computed tomography (CT) has been available. Its application in dentistry has been limited because of cost, access and dose consideration. The introduction of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) specifically dedicated to imaging the maxillofacial region heralds a true paradigm shift from 2D to 3D approach to data acquisition and image reconstruction. This new generation scanner provides a complete 3D view of the maxilla, mandible, teeth and supporting structure with relatively high resolution and low radiation exposure to the patient. This paper intends to reviews the two imaging modalities of maxillofacial region with description of advantages and limitations over each other.