Use of CBCT in Orthodontics: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Objectives: The present scoping review aims to provide a panoramic view of the current state of knowledge, highlighting the strengths, limitations, and future directions, on the use of CBCT in orthodontic practice. Methods: This study followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines to identify eligible studies from the following databases: PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science. The research question was formulated as follows: “What is the scientific evidence concerning the preferential use of 3D CBCT over 2D radiography in orthodontics”? Results: Through database searching, 521 records were identified, and ultimately, 37 studies that compared 3D CBCT with 2D conventional radiography were included. Of these, 16 articles regarded the use of CBCT for cephalometric analysis, 5 papers analyzed the evaluation of root resorption, 10 studies evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of root angulation and determining tooth position, and the remaining 6 articles were conducted for miscellaneous applications: determining the size of the nasopharyngeal airway (n = 2), miniscrew positioning (n = 1), estimating cervical vertebrae maturity (n = 1), and evaluating the correctness of the root location when placing digital indirect brackets (n = 1). Conclusions: The choice between 3D CBCT or CBCT-generated radiography and conventional 2D radiography in orthodontics involves careful consideration of the specific clinical context, the complexity of the case, and the balance between the diagnostic advantages and the associated limitations. Future Directions: Future studies with a prospective design and standardized imaging protocols are encouraged to facilitate the development of a consensus on the best practices.