cone-beam computed tomography prescriptions in pediatric dentistry

Introduction: cone beam computed tomography (cbct) is increasingly used in pediatric dentistry for better diagnostics and treatment, but concerns about its potential harm to children remain. this study evaluates cbct indications and the appropriateness of the field of view (fov) in pediatric patients at mashhad dental school.materials and methods: this retrospective study analyzed cbct radiographs and patient records of individuals aged 18 years or younger who visited the radiology department of mashhad dental school from april 2018 to the end of 2022. patients were categorized into three age groups: under 6 years, 7-12 years, and 13-18 years. the study recorded patient age, gender, cbct indication, anatomical region examined, and fov used. the appropriateness of the fov was assessed based on sedentex-ct guidelines. results: out of 4285 patient records, 199 pediatric patients (102 girls and 97 boys) with a mean age of 13.42±3.59 years were included. the most common indication for cbct was dental impaction (48.2%), particularly of the canine teeth, followed by pathological lesions (19.6%). the majority of cbct scans used a medium-sized fov (8x5 cm), which was appropriate in 67.8% of cases. there was a significant relationship between the indication for cbct and the appropriateness of the fov (p<0.001). conclusion: cbct is a valuable diagnostic tool in pediatric dentistry, particularly for evaluating dental impactions and pathological lesions. however, careful consideration of the fov is crucial to minimize radiation exposure. adherence to guidelines can enhance the safe and effective use of cbct in pediatric patients.