The importance of volumetric computed tomography in diagnosis and orthodontic planning of impacted teeth

Abstract

In orthodontic cases in which there is the presence of impacted teeth, the first complementary exams required are usually panoramic and periapical radiographs to assess the condition of the impacted tooth and the relationship of this element with the adjacent teeth and structures. However, these exams are bidimensional and they normally supply limited information about the real position of the impacted tooth and its physical condition. These could frequently present dilacerations and resorptions that are imperceptible in traditional exams. The volumetric computed tomography allows the anatomic structures to be visualized in three dimensions, providing more details and information, which are very useful to the orthodontist in diagnosing and planning treatment, as well as to the surgeon, who may determine the best surgical approach, removing a smaller quantity of bone. The aim of this study was to use a clinical case to illustrate the importance of the volumetric computed tomography in diagnosing and planning orthodontic treatment of impacted teeth, emphasizing how the clinical procedures coulddiffer when the same patient is assessed by means of bi or tridimensional exams.

Keywords

• cone-beam computed tomography
• tooth unerupted
• orthodontics
• tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico
• dente não-erupcionado
• ortodontia