Revised consensus guidelines for the use of cone-beam computed tomography/ digital volume tomography.

Abstract

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is established in dentistry for about 20 years. Technique evolved and indications clarified since then and since the Swiss consensus guidelines regarding CBCT were published in 2014 and 2015. Therefore, the Swiss association of dentomaxillofacial radiology decided to initiate the process of updating these guidelines by forming a consensus group divided into a core group responsible for the whole process and an approval group responsible for specific clinical matters. The manuscript outlines the revised guidelines in a practical way and is divided along the different specialties and clinical fields of dentistry. In result the guidelines are updated regarding reconstructive dentistry, orthodontics, geriatric dentistry, temporomandibular joint disorders, maxillofacial traumatology, benign and malignant tumors, assessment and detection of dental foci and endodontic infections and apical surgery. Overall, it can be stated that CBCT is utilized more consistently and somewhat broader than ten years ago. Today CBCT is well established and has proven benefits if indicated and analyzed precisely. Therefore, it might very well become more and more standard in dental radiology.