CBCT vs panoramic radiography in assessment of impacted upper canine and root resorption of the adjacent teeth: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: The IC may cause reabsorption of adjacent teeth; therefore detailed assessment of its position would enhance decision-making in the clinical workflow. The objective was to compare cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and panoramic radiography (PR) in assessing the position of the impacted upper canine (IC) and root resorption of adjacent teeth. Material and Methods: Pubmed, EMBASE, Science Direct, Web of Science, and SCOPUS databases were searched for studies published before August 2023. Studies that evaluated IC by using both imaging methods were included. For statistical analysis, the Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (Biostat; Englewood, NJ) was used, p≤0.05. Results: A total of 17 articles were included, with 877 patients (average age of 17.6 years) and 1,115 ICs. The most frequent mesio-distal location of the IC was in sectors 3 and 4. The meta-analysis was performed with eleven studies. CBCT was more accurate in determining the labio-palatal position compared with PR (p<0.001) (CI 95%; 60% in labial position, 0.254-0.542, OR:0.398; 56% in palatal position, 0.350-0.533, OR:0.441; 78% in mid-alveolus position, 0.188-0.234, OR:0.221). For IC angulation to the midline, CBCT showing a smaller and more accurate angle than PR (p<0.001) (CI 95%, 18.008-33.686). IC angulation to the occlusal plane and lateral incisor, there was smaller angle in PR compared to CBCT (p<0.001) (CI 95%, 51.292-65.934; CI 95%, 30.011-55.954). With PR, fewer cases of root resorption of teeth adjacent to the IC were visualized compared with CBCT (86% less) (p<0.001) (CI 95%, 0.089-0.186; OR value: 0.138; n=1049). Conclusions: CBCT showed statistically significant differences compared to PR in the assessment of IC position and root resorption of adjacent teeth. CBCT provided clinically relevant information that may contribute to diagnosing and planning IC treatment when PR was not sufficient. Key words:Canine teeth, tooth, impacted, panoramic radiography, Cone-beam computed tomography, systematic review, meta-analysis.

A Systematic Review on Caries Detection, Classification, and Segmentation from X-Ray Images: Methods, Datasets, Evaluation, and Open Opportunities.

Dental caries occurs from the interaction between oral bacteria and sugars, generating acids that damage teeth over time. The importance of X-ray images for detecting oral problems is undeniable in dentistry. With technological advances, it is feasible to identify these lesions using techniques such as deep learning, machine learning, and image processing. Therefore, the survey and systematization of these methods are essential to determining the main computational approaches for identifying caries in X-ray images. In this systematic review, we investigated the primary computational methods used for classifying, detecting, and segmenting caries in X-ray images. Following the PRISMA methodology, we selected relevant studies and analyzed their methods, strengths, limitations, imaging modalities, evaluation metrics, datasets, and classification techniques. The review encompassed 42 studies retrieved from the Science Direct, IEEExplore, ACM Digital, and PubMed databases from the Computer Science and Health areas. The results indicate that 12% of the included articles utilized public datasets, with deep learning being the predominant approach, accounting for 69% of the studies. The majority of these studies (76%) focused on classifying dental caries, either in binary or multiclass classification. Panoramic imaging was the most commonly used radiographic modality, representing 29% of the cases studied. Overall, our systematic review provides a comprehensive overview of the computational methods employed in identifying caries in radiographic images and highlights trends, patterns, and challenges in this research field.

Evaluation of Mandibular Bone Microstructure in CT Scans of People with Sickle Cell Disease.

OBJECTIVE: Sickle cell disease (SCD) is a common inherited disease, and is characterized by a genetic modification that determines the production of a hemoglobin with altered morphology. This anatomical change of hemoglobin leads to vaso-occlusive disorders and premature hemolysis of the cell, causing chronic anemia and bone marrow hyperplasia due to increased hematopoietic demand. As a consequence, several skeletal changes are reported in the skull, spine, ribs, pelvis, femur, and metatarsals. In the craniofacial region, dentofacial deformities are described, especially maxillary protrusion. However, studies evaluating bone microarchitecture are scarce. The aim of this study is to evaluate the mandibular bone microstructure of people with SCD on computed tomography (CT) scans. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Morphometric parameters were analyzed on CT scans of the mandible of people with SCD and people without this disease or any other disease affecting bone metabolism, matched for sex and age. STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: The results were compared by Student's t-test for paired samples and for an error probability of 5%. RESULTS: This study demonstrated that the mandibular bone of people with SCD presents significantly less number, connectivity and thickness of bone trabeculae, as well as having a lower fractal dimension and greater porosity. CONCLUSION: Mandibular bone of people with SCD has lower bone density and more widely spaced trabeculae.

Segmental resection vs. partial resection on treating solid multicystic ameloblastomas of the jaws - recurrence rates: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: The aim of the present study was to compare the recurrence rates of solid multicystic ameloblastomas after segmental resection or marginal resection. Material and Methods: PubMed, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase were searched for studies published up to July 2022. The gray literature was also searched. Meta-analysis was performed using OpenMeta Software, p< 0.05 considered significant. Results: Among the search, 8 studies met all eligibility criteria. The group that underwent marginal resection was 1.1 times more likely to present recurrence of the lesion compared to the group that underwent segmental resection. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (segmental resection and marginal resection) in all eight studies regarding reducing ND (95% Confidence interval, 0.339 - 3.705; heterogeneity: Q value= 3.105; I2= 0%). Conclusions: The results showed that there was no statistically significant difference between segmental and marginal resection for the treatment of solid multicystic ameloblastomas; however, prospective studies with more rigorous methodological procedures are needed to better compare the surgical techniques. Key words:Ameloblastoma, solid multicystic ameloblastoma, treatment, recurrence.

Prevalence of orofacial alterations in patients with sickle-cell disease: Systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to identify the prevalence of orofacial alterations in sickle-cell disease (SCD) and to compare it with the general population. STUDY DESIGN: This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines. The search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Scientific Electronic Library Online, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, gray literature, and references of the included articles. RESULTS: A total of 770 records were found, and 28 studies were selected. In SCD, the prevalence of decreased bone density was 57% (95% CI: 35%-80%), with Q: P < .01 and I2 = 95%; for stepladder pattern was 30% (IC: 13%-47%), Q: P < .01 and I²: 93%; for delayed eruption was 20% (95% CI: 6%-34%), with Q: P < .01 and I2 = 86, Q: P < .01 and I2 = 99%; and for malocclusion, 66% (95% CI: 39%-92%), Q: P < .01 and I2 = 98%. A high risk of bias was observed in relation to the sample size of the studies. A limited number of articles compared the prevalence of orofacial alterations in patients with SCD and healthy individuals. CONCLUSIONS: Decreased bone density, malocclusion, orofacial pain, tooth necrosis, eruption delay, periodontal disease, and neuropathies may be present in patients with SCD with variable prevalence.

Clinicopathological Analysis of Actinic Cheilitis: A Systematic Review with Meta-analyses.

BACKGROUND: This systematic review aimed to conduct a complete investigation of the demographic aspects, clinicopathological features, degrees of epithelial dysplasia, and malignant transformation rate of actinic cheilitis. METHODS: The study was performed following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and registered in the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42020201254). A search without year and language restrictions was performed using PubMed/MEDLINE, Embase, Virtual Health Library, Scopus, Web of Science, and gray literature. Studies that provided information on patients with actinic cheilitis were included, excluding those with general information on other diseases or other types of cheilitis. Risk of bias was explored using the Joanna Briggs Institute tool. Narrative and quantitative data syntheses were performed using meta-analyses and subgroup analyses. Association tests were also performed. RESULTS: Thirteen studies (728 patients) were included. The most prevalent clinical signs were dryness (99%), blurred demarcation between the lip vermilion and skin (82%), scaling (69%), and atrophy (69%). Regarding epithelial dysplasia, a prevalence of mild dysplasia (34.2%), followed by moderate (27.5%), and severe (14.9%). The malignant transformation rate was 14%. Crusts, ulcerations, and erythematous areas were associated with lip carcinoma (p < 0.001), and scaling was associated with actinic cheilitis (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: This study revealed several features of actinic cheilitis, providing an overview of the disease. It is suggested that new studies help develop policy guides for the standardization of clinical criteria, enabling more rigorous and homogeneous analysis of actinic cheilitis.

Double mandible coronoid process: a very unusual feature.

PURPOSE: The double coronoid process (DCP) is a very unusual feature in patient. The literature, which briefly describes just only one case. Being this a very unusual feature, the aim of the paper is to describe the finding, discuss the anatomic, radiological, and clinical characteristics of a DCP. METHODS: A 61-year-old-woman with no significant medical history, extraoral and intraoral examination was unremarkable. Following panoramic radiography (PR) for assessment of periodontal support and pre-implant planning suspicious radiopaque area in the mandibular notch on the left side was observed. Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) and Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were subsequently performed. RESULTS: No signs and symptoms of syndromes or medical records with a relevant contribution to the DCP existence and the patient denied any type of facial trauma. CBCT image showed the structure found on the PR was indeed a DCP and it was not superimposed on the mandibular notch area, MRI was performed to investigate soft tissue components and temporomandibular joint (TMJ) or other alterations. CONCLUSION: DPC is extremely rare with the only case reported in the literature within the same comparison parameters. In this case images revealed the muscles, articular surfaces and articular disc were well preserved, and no other alterations were found.

Bone Morphogenetic Protein 2 Plus Leukocyte and Platelet-Rich Fibrin for the Treatment of MRONJ.

Leukocyte and platelet-rich fibrin is known to contain high concentrations of growth factors and when associated with rhBMP-2, it may increase bone remodeling due to its osteoinductive property. The aim of this case is to report the outcome of surgical treatment of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw with prototype plate installation and the use of leukocyte and platelet-rich fibrin in association with rhBMP-2 in a 78-year-old female patient under therapy with alendronate. The present Studies describes that the combination of this treatment presented complete healing of osteonecrosis and represents a promising treatment option to be used for medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaw.

Occurrence of field cancerization in clinically normal oral mucosa: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose was to describe whether there are field cancerization (FC) indicators in clinically normal mucosa opposite to primary oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). METHODS: A search of the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Livivo databases was performed on June 12, 2022, which retrieved 152 records without duplicates. Studies that analyzed FC in biopsies in clinically normal tissue opposite to primary OSCC were included. The search was conducted under the PRISMA guideline and the protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42017077125). RESULTS: Eight articles with 302 patients were included, 192 men and 110 women, mean age 57.1 years. Most patients had deleterious habits. All studies performed histopathological confirmation of OSCC and biopsies were obtained the clinically normal mirror mucosa. The meta-analysis carried out with eight studies. The studies showed 57.3 % of cases with histopathological changes of clinically normal mucosa opposite to primary OSCC (Confidence interval 95 %, 0.443-0.703; heterogeneity: Q value 18.715; I2 73.284 %; n = 205). p53 and Ki-67 immunohistochemical analysis may be predictive for detecting changes. There was p53 immunoexpression in 41.3 % of cases (p = 0.872) (n = 55), ki-67 immunoexpression (< 20 %) in 68 % (p = 0.001) (n = 97) and ki-67 immunoexpression (> 20 %) in 28.4 % of cases (p = 0.000) (n = 110). CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that FC can occur, and there are histopathological changes in clinically normal tissue opposite to primary OSCC. Nevertheless, the review showed that more longitudinal studies on FC are needed to draw a conclusive indication of the occurrence of FC in oral tissues opposite to OSCC.

A single session of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy does not influence the alveolar repair process in rats.

The aim of this study was to use microscopic and molecular techniques to evaluate the effects of a single session of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on the alveolar repair process after tooth extraction in rats. The study sample included 84 rats divided into four groups, as follows: a) Control - untreated socket; b) Laser - socket treated using photobiomodulation; c) TBO - socket treated with topic application of the photosensitizer agent, toluidine blue O (TBO); and d) aPDT - socket treated with TBO and laser irradiation. An additional rat was used for thermal mapping during socket irradiation. The animals were euthanatized at 6, 15, and 28 days after unilateral extraction of the upper incisor. Quantitative and qualitative analyses of the connective and bone tissues, blood clot, blood vessel, and inflammatory infiltrate were performed, and real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to study the expression of genes (collagen type I, osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase [ALP], runt-related transcription factor 2 [RUNX2], and vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF]) involved in the bone healing process. No statistically significant differences in microscopic and molecular outcomes were observed between the groups (p > 0.05). A positive correlation was seen to exist between blood clot and VEGF (p = 0.000), and a negative correlation was observed between bone tissue and ALP (p = 0.028) and blood vessel and VEGF (p = 0.018). A single session of aPDT in the dental extraction site did not influence the alveolar repair process in rats.

A single session of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy does not influence the alveolar repair process in rats

Abstract: The aim of this study was to use microscopic and molecular techniques to evaluate the effects of a single session of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) on the alveolar repair process after tooth extraction in rats. The study sample included 84 rats divided into four groups, as follows: a) Control - untreated socket; b) Laser - socket treated using photobiomodulation; c) TBO - socket treated with topic application of the photosensitizer agent, toluidine blue O (TBO); and d) aPDT - socket treated with TBO and laser irradiation. An additional rat was used for thermal mapping during socket irradiation. The animals were euthanatized at 6, 15, and 28 days after unilateral extraction of the upper incisor. Quantitative and qualitative analyses of the connective and bone tissues, blood clot, blood vessel, and inflammatory infiltrate were performed, and real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to study the expression of genes (collagen type I, osteocalcin, alkaline phosphatase [ALP], runt-related transcription factor 2 [RUNX2], and vascular endothelial growth factor [VEGF]) involved in the bone healing process. No statistically significant differences in microscopic and molecular outcomes were observed between the groups (p > 0.05). A positive correlation was seen to exist between blood clot and VEGF (p = 0.000), and a negative correlation was observed between bone tissue and ALP (p = 0.028) and blood vessel and VEGF (p = 0.018). A single session of aPDT in the dental extraction site did not influence the alveolar repair process in rats.

Diagnostic accuracy of CBCT compared to panoramic radiography in predicting IAN exposure: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to verify whether the diagnostic accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) is superior to panoramic radiography (PR) in predicting inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) exposure during the lower third molar extraction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight electronic databases were searched up to September 2020. Studies that evaluated the accuracy (sensitivity, specificity, positive-predictive value, and negative predictive value) of both imaging methods were included. The gold standard was the visualization of the IAN exposure during the extraction of lower third molars. The gray literature was also used to include any other paper that might meet the eligibility criteria. The meta-analysis was performed with OpenMeta-Analyst and ReviewManager v.5.3 software. The methodology of the studies was evaluated using QUADAS-2. RESULTS: Among the search, three studies met all the eligibility criteria and were included in the qualitative and quantitative synthesis. The meta-analysis was conducted with all included studies. Accuracy values for CBCT were 95.1% for sensitivity (p=0.666) and 64.4% for specificity (p<0.001). For PR sensitivity and specificity, we observed 73.9% (p=0.101) and 24.8% (p<0.001), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Both exams were reliable for detecting positive cases of exposure of the IAN. However, CBCT had a better performance compared to PT in predicting IAN exposure during surgery. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: To better understand the CBCT accuracy in predicting the IAN exposure during surgery, since this event can increase the likelihood of IAN injury and, consequently, cause neurosensory disturbances.

Cone-beam computed tomography artifacts in the presence of dental implants and associated factors: an integrative review.

PURPOSE: This study was conducted to review the literature regarding the types of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) artifacts around dental implants and the factors that influence their formation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A search strategy was carried out in the PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases to identify published between 2010 and 2020, and 9 studies were selected. The implants included 306 titanium, titanium-zirconium, and zirconia implants, as well as 5 titanium cylinders. RESULTS: The artifacts around the implants were the beam-hardening artifact, the streaking artifact, and band-like radiolucent areas. Some factors that influenced the formation of artifacts were the implant material, bone type, evaluated regions, distance, type of CBCT, field of view (FOV) size, milliamperage, peak kilovoltage (kVp), and voxel size. The beam-hardening artifact was the most widely reported, and it was minimized in protocols with a smaller FOV, larger voxels, and higher kVp. CONCLUSION: The risk and benefit of these protocols in individuals with dental implants must be considered, and clinical examinations and complementary radiographs play an essential role in implantology.

A Comparative Study of Multidetector Computed Tomography, Cone Beam Computed Tomography, and Computed Microtomography on Trabecular Bone Structures in the Human Mandible: An Ex Vivo Study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of multislice computed tomography (MSCT) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) scanners in the assessment of trabecular bone microarchitecture by radiomorphometric analysis. METHODS: Eight dry human hemimandibles were selected and scanned by 4- and 128-MSCT, CBCT with different voxel sizes, and a computed microtomography (micro-CT). The images were spatially aligned, the axial slices were segmented using CTAn software (Skyscan, Konitch, Belgium), and 10 bone morphometric parameters were quantified. The micro-CT images were the criterion standard. RESULTS: The results show the superiority of CBCT images with 0.2-mm voxel size and 128-MSCT. CONCLUSIONS: We can conclude that the CBCT scanner with 0.2-mm voxel size and 128-MSCT had better performance on reproducibility of the distribution and organization of trabecular bone and marrow spaces evaluated in this study.

Reliability and accuracy of automatic segmentation of mandibular 3D models on linear measurements.

OBJECTIVE: Evaluate if automatic segmentation of mandibular three-dimensional (3D) models is reliable and accurate. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Eight dry mandibles with eight silica markers were scanned in the i-CAT Classic device (Imaging Sciences International). Automatic segmentation was performed using nine standard preset thresholds in the Dolphin software (Dolphin Imaging & Management Solutions). Three observers individually made twice eight linear measurements on the mandibular 3D models. Another observer made physical measurements, twice as well, on the dry mandibles. Reliability and accuracy were evaluated with intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), Dahlberg's formula, Bland-Altman analyses, and changing bias with regression analyses. RESULTS: Inter-observer and intra-observer ICCs and Dahlberg's error were ≥ 0.75 and ≤ 1.0 mm, respectively, for all measurements. Inter-observer agreement between mandibular 3D models and physical measurements ranged from -0.37 to 0.91 mm. CONCLUSIONS: Linear measurements made on mandibular 3D models obtained using standard preset thresholds are reliable and accurate. However, additional studies are necessary to confirm this hypothesis for clinical applications. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Since the 3D models are useful for diagnostics and surgical planning, it is necessary to determinate whether the linear measurements made on 3D models obtained by automatic segmentation are sufficiently reliable and accurate.

Comparison of limited- and large-volume cone-beam computed tomography using a small voxel size for detecting isthmuses in mandibular molars.

PURPOSE: This study was performed to compare the ability of limited- and large-volume cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) to display isthmuses in the apical root canals of mandibular molars. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty human mandibular first molars with isthmuses in the apical 3 mm of mesial roots were scanned by micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), and their thickness, area, and length were recorded. The samples were examined using 2 CBCT systems, using the smallest voxels and field of view available for each device. The Mann-Whitney, Friedman, and Dunn multiple comparison tests were performed (α=0.05). RESULTS: The 3D Accuitomo 170 and i-Cat devices detected 77.5% and 75.0% of isthmuses, respectively (P>0.05). For length measurements, there were significant differences between micro-CT and both 3D Accuitomo 170 and i-Cat (P<0.05). CONCLUSION: Both CBCT systems performed similarly and did not detect isthmuses in the apical third in some cases. CBCT still does not equal the performance of micro-CT in isthmus detection, but it is nonetheless a valuable tool in endodontic practice.

Inflammatory cytologic alterations in the oral epithelium associated with HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis: a preliminary study.

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to assess inflammatory cytologic alterations in the oral epithelium of patients on human immunodeficiency virus pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). MATERIAL AND METHODS: Epithelial cells from the buccal mucosa of 30 patients were collected by exfoliative cytology and were evaluated according to inflammatory cellular alterations: karyomegaly, bi- or multinucleation, karyopyknosis, karyorrhexis, perinuclear halo formation, metachromasia, cytoplasmic vacuolization, indistinct cytoplasmic border, keratinization, and atrophy. Epithelial cells were collected initially before PrEP onset (T1) and then after 30 days of PrEP use (T2). Two experienced cytopathologists independently analyzed the slides. RESULTS: The nonparametric Wilcoxon test showed that there was a statistically significant increase in the number of cells with karyomegaly at T2 compared to T1 (P = .033). The other cellular alterations did not present with statistically significant differences between the 2 moments of evaluation (P > .05). CONCLUSION: The increased number of oral epithelial cells with karyomegaly after 30 days of using PrEP suggests the presence of inflammatory alterations at this site.

Cleft lip and palate cause large variations in size and location of the posterior superior alveolar canal.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the posterior superior alveolar canal (PSAC) in patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP) as compared to patients with no cleft lip and palate (NC) using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a retrospective multicenter study based on two steps: (1) evaluating intra- and inter-calibration and (2) detecting the presence or absence of PSAC and its location, diameter, and anastomosis with anterior superior alveolar canal. RESULTS: A total of 300 patients were selected for the study, out of which 150 were categorized as CLP (75 men, 75 women; mean age: 29.8 years) and 150 were categorized as NC (75 men, 75 women; mean age: 40.3 years). PSAC in patients with CLP and NC was visible in 100% of the cases, in men and women, bilaterally. PSAC location in CLP was middle and upper third of the maxillary sinus as compared to NC (lower third) (chi-squared < 0.001). PSAC mean diameter in CLP was 1.12 mm. It was larger compared to 0.6 mm in NC (t-test < 0.0001). CONCLUSION: PSAC location in patients with CLP was predominantly in the middle and upper third of the maxillary sinus, compared with NC. PSAC mean diameter in CLP was 1.12 mm. It was larger compared to that of 0.6 mm in NC. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: These anatomical variations in CLP are important and should be acknowledged by surgeons for the following reasons: (1) to perform pre-surgical planning, (2) to avoid bleeding, and (3) to avoid neurosensory alterations.

Limitation of diagnostic value of cone-beam CT in detecting apical root isthmuses.

INTRODUCTION: Isthmuses are reported as common anatomic complexities in teeth often associated with failures in endodontic treatment. They should be considered before starting treatment and a preoperative computed tomography scan (CT) may demonstrate these complexities. OBJECTIVE: To assess the diagnostic value of the highest resolution settings of a cone-beam CT (CBCT) system in identifying and measuring apical isthmuses, using micro-CT as reference. METHODOLOGY: After micro-CT scanning, 40 humans' lower first molars with isthmuses in the apical-3 mm of mesial roots were scanned by the highest resolution settings of the New Generation i-Cat ® CBCT equipment. Two blinded observers recorded the detection of isthmuses in CBCT scans. The lengths of isthmuses were compared between micro-CT and CBCT to assess the diagnostic value of CBCT. Quantitative data for sensitivity were represented as percentages (95% confidence interval). The Bland-Altman method was used to assess differences between gold standard lengths (micro-CT) and CBCT lengths. RESULTS: BCT demonstrated 30 positive findings, representing sensitivity for isthmus identification of 75% (95% CI=0.4114-1.1364). Differences between the lengths in micro-CT (1.99±0.40 mm) and CBCT (1.53±0.41 mm) were significant (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: The CBCT device used presented limited diagnostic value in the identification and measurement of apical isthmuses in the mesial roots of lower molars. In some cases, the actual anatomy of the apical root canal may not be completely delineated in this type of CBCT system, even using the highest resolution settings.

CBCT does not reduce neurosensory disturbances after third molar removal compared to panoramic radiography: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVES: The current dentistry scenario is showing an increase in the availability of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) in dental offices. Oral surgeons are using three-dimensional information as an additional tool to assess preoperative data for lower third molar (LTM) removal in moderate and high-risk cases of inferior alveolar nerve (IAN) injury diagnosed through the panoramic radiography (PR). The aim of this study is to identify whether CBCT examination reduces neurosensoric disturbances (ND) following the removal of the LTM when compared to PR. MATERIALS AND METHODS: PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Science Direct, and Scopus electronic databases were searched for studies published up to February 2019. The gray literature was also searched including papers that eventually met the eligibility criteria. Meta-analysis was performed using the comprehensive meta-analysis software, p < 0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: Among the search, 6 studies met all eligibility criteria. There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (PR and CBCT) in all six studies regarding reducing ND (95%. Confidence interval, 0,788-1734; heterogeneity: Q = 10,361; I2 = 22.788%). CONCLUSIONS: CBCT was not superior to PR in avoiding ND. However, further studies are necessary with standardized parameters for a better comparability between variables in the studies. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: To better understand the CBCT clinical applicability in LTM removal to avoid unnecessary extra radiation when compared to PR to the patient and to improve patient's prognosis.