Prevalence of artifacts in cone-beam computed tomography: A retrospective study

Abstract

Introduction: In dentistry, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is an essential diagnostic technique. To use CBCT imaging technology efficiently, it is vital to understand its benefits and limits. Artifacts are discrepancies between the reconstructed visual image and the actual content of the subject that can reduce anatomic accuracy. Aims and Objectives: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of artifacts in CBCT images. Materials and Methods: Three hundred sixty-five CBCT images were retrospectively studied to identify artifacts, and the prevalence of different artifacts was recorded. Frequency and percentages are used for descriptive statistics. The Chi-square test was used for interventional statistics. Results: Artifacts were observed in two hundred forty-five images examined. The most prevalent image artifact recorded was the beam hardening artifact that falls under the physics-based category. Conclusion: Physics-based and scanner-based artifacts may be avoided by concentrating on X-ray parameters and scanner detector state, respectively. To limit the frequency of patient-based artifacts in CBCT images, patients should be instructed to remove any metallic jewelry and be stabilized appropriately. Scan time should be maintained to a minimum.