Trends in CBCT current practice within three UK paediatric dental departments

Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is used across all dental specialties and has a number of advantages compared to 2D images. The SEDENTEXCT guidelines provide a number of indications for the use, however there are currently no specific guidelines for paediatric dentistry. The aim of this study was to assess current practice of CBCT imaging within paediatric dental departments in England, audit compliance of CBCT justifications against the standards set by SEDENTEXCT and assess whether the use of CBCT affected the treatment plan for each individual patient.

From the retrospective analysis of CBCT examinations taken over a 4-year period across three dental hospitals in the north of England, the following data were collected: age at the time of exposure, clinical indication, region of interest (ROI) and diagnostic findings. Clinical notes were also used to identify whether the CBCT had an effect on the final treatment plan.

A total of 335 CBCT examinations were performed, mean age: 11 years. The number of CBCTs increased each year with a twofold increase in the first 2 years. The main clinical indication in 46% of CBCT examinations was the assessment of localised developing dentition, 68% were in the upper anterior sextant and 61% of CBCT exams were in the mixed dentition age group. The investigations were justified in 100% of the cases.

The quantity of CBCT examination in paediatric dental patients is increasing to assist treatment planning but more often to enable improved surgical planning.