Three-dimensional cephalometric imaging versus two-dimensional traditional analysis

Aims: The aim of this study was to combine the huge amount of information of low dose Cone Beam CT with a cephalometric simplified protocol thanks to the latest informatics aids. Materials and Methods: Cephalometry is an essential clinical and research tool in orthodontics. It has been used to obtain absolute and relative measures of the craniofacial skeleton. Lateral cephalograms that are two-dimensional (2-D) are used to depict three-dimensional (3-D) structures. Consequently, cephalograms have inherent limitations as a result of distortion and differential magnification of the craniofacial complex. This may lead to errors of identification and reduced measurement accuracy. Results: The introduction of CBCT has made 3D imaging more readily available for dental applications. The advantages of CBCT over conventional CT include lower radiation dose, lower cost, potentially better access, high spatial resolution and imaging quality improvement. In contrast to those on radiographs, the angular and linear measurements detected on three-dimensionally become real, moreover the selection of fewer points and the automatic measurements made by the computer reduced human error, for a much more reliable and repeatable diagnosis. Conclusions: 2D geometric errors of projection, magnification, head positioning, can be avoided in the 3-D environment.