Beam Hardening Artifacts: Comparison between Two Cone Beam Computed Tomography Scanners.

Area of Science:

• Dental Radiology
• Medical Imaging Technology

Background:

• Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is widely used in dentistry.
• Metallic dental materials can cause beam hardening artifacts, degrading image quality.
• Artifacts are a significant challenge in CBCT imaging of dental implants.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare beam hardening artifacts in dental implant images between two CBCT machines.
• To evaluate image quality differences between NewTom VG and Planmeca Promax 3D Max CBCT systems.
• To determine which CBCT machine offers superior imaging for dental implants.

Main Methods:

• An implant drilling model was used with implants placed in canine, premolar, and molar regions.
• Scans were performed using NewTom VG and Planmeca Promax 3D Max CBCT machines.
• Radiologists assessed coronal and axial sections for beam hardening artifacts using a standardized scale.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences in beam hardening artifacts were found between the two CBCT machines (P<0.001).
• The NewTom VG machine produced images with significantly fewer artifacts compared to the Planmeca Promax 3D Max.
• Image quality was higher in scans obtained with the NewTom VG system.

Conclusions:

• The NewTom VG CBCT machine demonstrates superior performance in reducing beam hardening artifacts.
• It is recommended for imaging patients with complex dental work, including extensive restorations or previous implants.
• The findings suggest the NewTom VG is preferable for achieving high-quality CBCT images of dental implants.