Application of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) in diagnosis and evaluation of Supernumerary Teeth

ABSTRACT

Background and Objectives: The aim of this paper is to describe the application of a newly developed three-dimensional imaging system, Cone-Beam Computed Tomography in the diagnosis and evaluation of supernumerary teeth.Material and Methods: One hundred and eighty-five patients with supernumerary teeth (134 males and 51 females) were included in this study. Patients ranged in age from 6 to 38 years. Supernumerary teeth were detected by clinical examination and conventional radiographs. Moreover, careful investigation for more details was made with the cone beam computed tomography. Supernumerary teeth which were detected with the examinations of the cone beam computed tomography images were analyzed according to the number, location, shape and position.Results: Males were affected more than females in a ratio of 2.61. 95 % supernumerary teeth were located in maxilla and 5 % in the mandible. 71.6% of supernumerary teeth were conical in shape. 93.6% supernumerary teeth were impacted and 6.4% were erupted. A total of 198 supernumerary teeth were found to be present in palatal/lingual side and 24 were found on the buccal side. 80.5 % of the patients had one, 18.9 % had two, and 0.5 % had three supernumeraries.Conclusion: Detailed examinations and evaluations of these teeth with Cone-Beam Computed tomography (CBCT) yields accurate 3-dimensional pictures of supernumerary teeth, local dental and bony structures which are very beneficial in terms of proper diagnosis and treatment planning and preventing complications which may occur.