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Radiography

DENT1201

DICOM Data

Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine. This is the universal format for handling, storing and transmitting three-dimensional images.

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Field of View

The area that can be captured when performing imaging procedures, such as taking radiographs.

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Multiplanar Reconstruction (MPR)

The reconstruction of raw data into images when imported into viewing software to create three anatomic planes of the body. These planes are the axial, coronal and sagittal planes.

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Axial Plane

A horizontal plane that divides the body into superior and inferior parts. it runs parallel to the ground. 

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Coronal Plane

A vertical plane that divides the body into anterior and posterior sides. It runs perpendicular to the ground.

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Sagittal Plane

A vertical plane that divides the body into right and left sides. It runs perpendicular to the ground. A midsagittal plane runs through the midline of the body. 

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Contrast Resolution

The number of grey scale colours available to be chosen for each voxel in the image. 

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Spatial Resolution

A measurement of voxel size in multiplanar reconstruction (MPR).

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Voxel

The smallest element of a three-dimensional image. It is also referred to as volume element, or as a three-dimensional pixel.

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Three-Dimensional Digital Imaging

An image that demonstrates structures in three-dimensions.

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Three-Dimensional Volume Rendering

A three-dimensional shape that is created from two-dimensional images.

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Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Computer assisted digital imaging in dentistry. This imaging technique uses a cone-shaped x-ray beam to acquire information and present it in three dimensions. (See below)

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Cone Beam Volume Tomography (CBVT)

Computer assisted digital imaging in dentistry. It is used interchangeably with cone beam volume imaging (CBVI).

Three-Dimensional Digital Imaging

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

A CBCT machine is similar to a panoramic machine. The size is comparable, and with a CBCT machine, the radiation also rotates around the client's head to create an image. A sensor accepts the raw data, converting it into several axial, coronal, and sagittal two-dimensional images. A computer software combines this data to create a three-dimensional model that can be viewed from all angles. This three-dimensional image would be useful in a variety of aspects in practice, including the following:

  • Improving and facilitating diagnosis 

  • Leading to a client-centred treatment plan

  • Aiding with implant placement 

  • Extracting impacted dentition

  • Endodontic assessment 

  • Evaluating temporomandibular joint conditions or disorders

  • Evaluating orthodontics before or after treatment

  • Evaluating pathology

CBCT imaging has a lower radiation dose than standard radiography, as well as a brief scanning time, while still producing anatomically correct images. Due to the fact that these images are digital, they can also be easily saved and transported to other programs or computers. Some disadvantages to CBCT exist as well, such as the lack of interpretation training, cost, and patient movement; however, the advantages outweigh the disadvantages. 

The figure above is an example of the images resulting from a CBCT radiograph. It provides axial images and a panoramic image, in addition to the three-dimensional model. These can all be used together, depending on the purpose of the scan itself.

Terminology

Study Notes Review

This study session helped to shed some light on three-dimensional digital imaging, particularly CBCT. After shadowing Dr. Fritz, I was interested in revisiting this topic to refresh my knowledge on reasons to utilize CBCT in practice, as well as the benefits and disadvantages. Clearly this is a very beneficial technique. The textbook was helpful in answering the questions I had regarding this subject. This information will be beneficial in practice, as I will be able to have discussions with the dentist regarding the potential use of a CBCT for some clients. It was interesting that although a significant amount of radiographs are produced, a CBCT scan is not a higher risk in regards to radiation when compared to standard digital radiographs. This is a beneficial piece of information that may be shared with clients when discussing this diagnostic tool as a part of their care. 

Radiography is an essential skill for a Dental Hygienist; it serves as a diagnostic tool for detecting caries, periodontal disease, among other conditions, and for monitoring their progression. Dentists expect dental hygienists to be proficient at taking radiographs. This is not only to save time in a dental clinic, but also due to the fact that radiation exposure to clients should be limited. What made this course challenging was the variety of radiograph types and methods. Different kinds of radiographs are useful in detecting different conditions, and it is important to know in which cases a certain kind may be more useful. Radiographs are continuously progressing, with more innovative techniques developing at each turn. With the new various radiographic options providing clinicians and dentists with more client-specific options. One of the most modern and innovative type of radiograph currently being used in some practices is three-dimensional digital imaging. These methods provide more detailed and useful images when compared to standard two-dimensional radiographs. Three-dimensional digital imaging is similar to a panoramic radiograph in that the source of radiation rotates around the head of the client; however, it uses a cone-shaped beam to yield a three-dimensional image. It was difficult to develop a strong grasp regarding the theory behind three-dimensional digital imaging, as there was no associated radiography lab component in this course where the corresponding skills may be practiced. 

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