Cone Beam Computed Tomography
Also written as: CBCT — Cone Beam Computed Tomography
A three-dimensional radiographic imaging modality that uses a cone-shaped X-ray beam to produce volumetric data of the maxillofacial region at a lower radiation dose than conventional CT.
Full Definition
Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) has become a standard diagnostic and research imaging tool in dentistry, providing three-dimensional visualisation of alveolar bone, tooth morphology, the temporomandibular joint, and airway structures. Unlike conventional medical CT, CBCT uses a cone-shaped beam rotating around the patient's head, producing a volumetric dataset that can be reformatted in multiple planes. In dental research manuscripts, authors must report the CBCT unit model, voxel size, field of view (FOV), and radiation dose or dose area product (DAP). Editors should verify that CBCT is not styled as 'cone-beam CT' without prior definition and that it is not confused with periapical or panoramic radiography, which are two-dimensional modalities.
Usage
Usage note: Expand to full form on first use. Styling varies: 'cone beam' (two words, no hyphen as noun), but 'cone-beam' (hyphenated as modifier). Always report imaging parameters (voxel size, FOV) in methods sections.
In Context
- "Pre-surgical CBCT scans were obtained using a 0.2 mm voxel size and a 8 × 8 cm field of view to assess bone volume at the implant site." — Implant research methods section
- "The authors refer to 'CBCT' on first use without expansion; insert the full form 'cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)' at initial mention." — Copy-editing instruction