Cone Beam Computed Tomography & Orthodontics

In the last 10 years digital procedures have been progressively introduced in the orthodontic practice. The advent of digital imaging has revolutioned radiology. This revolution is the result of both technologic innovation in image acquisition processes and the development of networked computing systems for image retrieval and transmission. A number of forces are driving the shift from film to digital systems. Digital imaging eliminates chemical processing. Images can be electronically transferred to other health care providers without any alteration of the original image quality. Digital intraoral receptors require less radiation than film thus lowering the patient absorbed dose. Trends however are certain computers plays a role in the majority of dental practices and that role are expanding as a variety of functions from appointment scheduling procedure billing and patient charting are integrated into seamless practice management software solutions. It is no longer a matter of if but rather when the majority of dental practices will use digital imaging. Already during this time of transition film-based practices will be confronted with digital images from practices that have implemented digital radiography.