Objective and subjective image evaluation of maxillary alveolar bone based on cone beam computed tomography exposure parameters.

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to optimize the exposure parameters for cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) for performing diagnostic imaging of maxillary alveolar bone.

Study Design: CBCT (Promax 3 D Max) was performed on a frozen human cadaver head. Image homogeneity and the degree of alveolar bone contrast were determined by objective assessment using ImageJ software and subjective assessment by orthodontists and oral radiologists. Kruskal-Wallis tests and interrater agreement were used to compare results across groups.

Results: Image homogeneity and degree of alveolar bone contrast differed significantly among all exposure protocols (P < .001). Intraclass correlation values ranged from 0.681 to 0.779, with orthodontists having higher values compared with oral radiologists. Average of image quality scores between protocols were statistically significant (P < .001) and ranged from "fair" to "good."

Conclusions: There is great potential to reduce CBCT radiation doses for maxillary alveolar bone while maintaining adequate image quality for diagnosis.