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Does cone beam CT change the treatment decision for maxillary second and third molars? A prospective study
Louise Hermann1, Sven Erik Nørholt2,3, Ann Wenzel1
1Section for Oral Radiology, Department of Dentistry and Oral Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
Dento Maxillo Facial Radiology
|August 29, 2023
Summary
Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) significantly alters treatment plans for impacted maxillary molars. Detailed imaging parameters like resorption influence decisions on removing second or third molars.
Area of Science:
- Dentistry
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Maxillary second and third molars often present complex impactions.
- Panoramic imaging can limit diagnostic accuracy for these molars.
- Treatment planning requires precise evaluation of anatomical relationships and pathology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) alters treatment plans for maxillary second and third molars.
- To identify clinical and radiographic factors influencing treatment decisions regarding these molars.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 260 maxillary third molars in 170 patients.
- Initial treatment plans based on clinical data and panoramic radiography.
- Final treatment plans determined after CBCT imaging.
- Logistic regression analysis to evaluate influencing parameters.
Main Results:
- CBCT changed treatment plans in 32% of cases.
- Severe resorption of the second molar significantly impacted treatment plan changes.
- Third molar removal was associated with mesioangulation, bone loss, resorption, and age.
- Second molar removal was linked to severe resorption.
Conclusions:
- CBCT provides crucial information that modifies treatment decisions for maxillary molars.
- Radiographic parameters, particularly resorption, are key factors in deciding molar removal.
