Practical limitations of cone-beam computed tomography in 3D cephalometry

3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images offer a unique and new appreciation of the anatomical structures and underlying anomalies not possible with conventional radiographs. However, in almost all aspects of CBCT imaging, from utilization to application, inherent limitations and pitfalls exist. Importantly, these inherent limitations and pitfalls have practical implications which need to be addressed before the potential of this technology can be fully realized. The purpose of this review was to explore the current limitations and pitfalls associated with CBCT imaging to allow for better and more accurate understanding of the possibilities this imaging modality could offer, particularly pertaining to 3D cephalometry.