X-ray beam limitation and reduction in radiation dose: Reduces the size of the irradiated area by collimation of the primary X-ray beam to the area of interest thus, minimizing the radiation dose. Most CBCT units can be adjusted to scan small regions for specific diagnostic tasks. Using both the 1990 and recently approved 2007 International Commission on Radiological Protection recommended tissue weighting factors, effective doses range from 52 to 1025 μSv depending upon the equipment and imaging protocol and field of view (FOV) selected.[10,11] Moreover, patient positioning modifications (tilting the chin) and use of additional personal protection (thyroid collar) can substantially reduce the dose by up to 40%.[12]
• Image accuracy: In conventional CT, the voxels, which determine the image resolution is anisotropic, i.e., rectangular cubes where the longest dimension of the voxel is the axial slice thickness. Instead, CBCT units provide voxel resolutions that are isotropic, i.e., equal in all 3 dimensions. This produces sub-millimeter resolution ranging from 0.4 mm to as low as 0.125 mm.
• Rapid scan time: Scan time is rapid as CBCT acquires all basic images in a single rotation. This leads to less motion artifacts due to reduced subject movement.
• Display modes unique to maxillofacial imaging: Reconstruction of data is easier and less time consuming as compared with the conventional CT. In addition, analysis software is available to the clinician as well as the radiologist, either via direct purchase or innovative “per use” license from various vendors. This enables the dental professional to make real-time assessment chairside and perform task specific analysis.
• Reduced image artifact: With manufacturers’ artefact suppression algorithms and an increasing number of projections, it has been observed that CBCT images can result in a low level of metal artifact, particularly in secondary reconstructions designed for viewing the teeth and jaws.