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Abstract
The surgical removal of impacted third molars is a common procedure in dentistry, often associated with risks such as pain, swelling, and potential nerve injuries. To reduce these complications, precise surgical planning is essential, with diagnostic imaging being an indispensable tool in this context. Traditionally, panoramic radiography has been used, but cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has gained prominence for allowing a more accurate three-dimensional assessment of the involved anatomical structures. This study aims to review the literature on the use of cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) as an auxiliary tool in the surgical planning of impacted third molars. CBCT enables precise three-dimensional analysis of tooth position, proximity to critical anatomical structures, and degree of impaction, overcoming the limitations of conventional radiographs. The databases used for article selection were PubMed, SciELO, and LILACS, with the following descriptors: "Cone-Beam Computed Tomography, Impacted Third Molars, Surgical Planning, Dentistry, Diagnostic Imaging." The analysis of the selected studies demonstrated that CBCT offers significant advantages over conventional radiographs by providing greater accuracy in identifying the relationship between impacted teeth and structures such as the mandibular canal. It is concluded that this imaging modality contributes to increased safety, predictability, and reduction of complications, being especially indicated in cases of anatomical risk or when two-dimensional exams do not provide sufficient information.
References
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Copyright (c) 2025 Gabriele Lopes de Sousa, Eline Teresa Simeão Brandão de Carvalho, Iza Emanuelly Freitas de Araújo, Samuel Ruben Pereira da Silva, Anna Luísa Lima Alves, Saffira Serafim de Sousa Sampaio, Sanmyo Martins Oliveira
