Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Also written as: CBCT — Cone Beam Computed Tomography
A three-dimensional dental imaging modality that uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam to produce volumetric data of the maxillofacial region with lower radiation doses than conventional medical CT.
Full Definition
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is a specialized form of computed tomography designed for dental and maxillofacial imaging. It uses a cone-shaped beam of X-rays and a two-dimensional detector that rotate around the patient to capture a volumetric dataset from which multiplanar reconstructions can be derived. CBCT offers higher spatial resolution for hard tissues than medical CT and delivers a significantly lower radiation dose, making it suitable for implant planning, endodontic assessment, orthodontic evaluation, and pathology characterisation. Editors should ensure the abbreviation CBCT is defined on first use and distinguish it from 'CT' (conventional computed tomography) and from 'MSCT' (multislice CT). Field of view (FOV) is a key specification often cited in CBCT reports.
Usage
Usage note: Always define CBCT on first use. Do not use interchangeably with 'CT scan,' which refers to conventional multislice computed tomography and delivers a higher radiation dose.
In Context
- "Cone beam computed tomography was performed to assess the buccolingual dimensions of the implant site at the mandibular right second premolar position." — Implant planning report
- "CBCT imaging confirmed the presence of an additional mesiolingual canal in the maxillary left first molar." — Endodontic case report