Lucas Rodrigues Pinheiro, DDS, is a doctoral student in oral and maxillofacial radiology, Faculdade de Odontologia at the Universidade de So Paulo in Brazil. He is also a visiting research scholar in the Division of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, Department of Surgical and Hospital Dentistry at UofL School of Dentistry.
Cone-beam computed tomography is an effective tool in orthodontics, but it must be used judiciously to protect patients from unnecessary radiation exposure.
An important tool in radiographic imaging during orthodontic treatment, dental professionals need to understand its inherent benefits, while also considering the risks of increased radiation exposure.