Low-dose CBCT protocols in implant dentistry: a systematic review

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) is integral to dental implant therapy.
• Optimizing CBCT protocols to reduce radiation exposure is a significant clinical goal.
• Evaluating low-dose protocols across implant planning, insertion, and peri-implantitis assessment is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current evidence on low-dose CBCT protocols in dental implant therapy.
• To assess the efficacy of reduced radiation protocols in implant planning, insertion, and follow-up.
• To determine the impact of low-dose CBCT on objective and subjective image quality.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search of MEDLINE/PubMed and Scopus databases.
• Inclusion of studies comparing low-dose CBCT protocols to reference standards for implant therapy.
• Data extraction and quality assessment of included studies.

Main Results:

• Sixteen studies were analyzed, identifying parameter reductions (kV, mA, voxel size, exposure time, trajectory) for low-dose protocols.
• Low-dose CBCT demonstrated comparable objective measurements to higher-dose protocols in all implant therapy stages.
• Bone measurements using CBCT were consistent with direct measurements, irrespective of the protocol.
• Subjective image quality may be adversely affected, while objective assessments remain largely unaffected.

Conclusions:

• Low-dose CBCT protocols do not compromise objective image quality in any stage of implant therapy.
• Parameter reductions, excluding kV, appear feasible for developing effective low-dose CBCT protocols.
• Further clinical research is warranted to confirm these findings and guide responsible radiation use in patient care.