Material-discriminating chromatic X-ray stationary intraoral computed tomography technology

Three-dimensional (3D) dental imaging, such as cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), is essential for diagnosing dental conditions but is limited by high costs, prolonged examination times, and increased radiation exposure. Additionally, standard CBCT lacks the ability to capture spectral X-ray information, which is crucial for distinguishing different dental materials. To address these issues, we propose a novel, to the best of our knowledge, low-cost, low-dose dental CT method, chromatic X-ray stationary intraoral computed tomography (S-IDECT), which integrates a multisource X-ray array with dual-energy CT technology. This approach not only generates quasi-3D images with depth information but also produces multiple monochromatic images across a broad energy range (20-90 keV), enhancing material discrimination. The S-IDECT system uses a mechanical arm to emulate a source array, enabling precise positioning of seven X-ray sources. The method employs the adaptive steepest descent projection onto convex sets (ASD-POCS) algorithm for image reconstruction and material decomposition. The experimental results demonstrate significant improvements in material differentiation, particularly for calcified tissues and restorative materials, with a relative error of less than 10%. This study demonstrates the feasibility of S-IDECT as a promising dental imaging tool, offering enhanced diagnostic accuracy and material differentiation for improved dental care and treatment planning. This approach has the potential to improve the early detection of dental diseases, reduce radiation exposure to patients, and provide more accurate treatment planning, ultimately benefiting both patients and dental professionals.