Comparative analysis of impacted upper canines: Panoramic radiograph Vs Cone Beam Computed Tomography

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Orthodontics
• Radiology

Background:

• Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) is increasingly used in dentistry.
• Its specific advantages over conventional imaging for impacted canine assessment are not fully understood.
• This study compares CBCT with panoramic imaging for evaluating impacted maxillary canines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the diagnostic information provided by CBCT reconstructions versus panoramic images for impacted maxillary canines.
• To determine differences in evaluating tooth position and root resorption between the two imaging modalities.
• To identify specific aspects where CBCT may offer superior diagnostic value.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective analysis of 28 impacted maxillary canines in 20 patients.
• Orthodontists evaluated panoramic images and CBCT reconstructions using a standardized questionnaire.
• Statistical analysis included Cronbach's alpha, Kappa statistics, and McNemar test (p<0.05).

Main Results:

• Significant differences were observed in tooth position assessment between CBCT and panoramic imaging.
• Poor agreement was found for mesio-distal apex position (k=0.388) and adjacent root resorption.
• Moderate to strong agreement was noted for other evaluated items.

Conclusions:

• CBCT and panoramic imaging provide distinct information regarding impacted canine tooth position and root resorption.
• The mesio-distal apex position and labio-palatal cusp position assessments differed significantly.
• Further studies are required to establish clear indications for CBCT in impacted canine cases.