RESUMO
OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to confirm the reliability of a cone beam computed tomography (CBCT)-generated panoramic view based on a CBCT 3D image and to find the most helpful 2D panoramic image compared with CBCT 3D image when examining the mesiodistal tooth axis. METHODS: A test model was constructed according to cephalometric norms. The test model was repeatedly repositioned for CBCT and panoramic radiographic imaging. Panoramic radiographs were acquired at each of the following 3 occlusal plane positions: -5degrees, 0degrees, and +5degrees. Measurements of mesiodistal tooth axis in CBCT 3D image, CBCT-generated panoramic view, and panoramic radiographs were compared. RESULTS: Compared with the CBCT-generated panoramic view, CBCT 3D image showed significant difference in the mesiodistal tooth axis in the premolars and no significant difference in the mesiodistal tooth axis in the incisors and canines. Mesiodistal tooth axis on the CBCT-generated panoramic view was significantly different from that on panoramic radiographs. CONCLUSIONS: CBCT-generated panoramic view can be a useful tool for evaluating mesiodistal tooth axis.