Influência de diferentes exames por imagem no planejamento cirúrgico de terceiros molares inferiores: revisão de literatura

Abstract

Extraction of the third molars is the most commonly performed oral surgery in dentistry. Imaging methods are used to provide information about the number and location of tooth roots and their proximity to the mandibular canal. The most commonly used means today are panoramic radiography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), which are different exams that often have different applicability. Panoramic radiography is the standard imaging method during preoperative evaluation. However, this examination is limited as it provides a two-dimensional (2D) image of three-dimensional (3D) structures resulting in overlapping underlying structures, as well as the enlargement and distortion that cause loss of image definition. CBCT allows the visualization of the relationship of bone and third molar structures in multiplanar reconstructions with excellent spatial resolution, providing accurate information for the dentist to assess and determine the preoperative surgical risk. The purpose of this study was to perform a literature review on imaging methods (panoramic radiography and CBCT) and their influence on the surgical planning of lower third molar extraction.