Keywords
Airways
Diagnostic Imaging
Cone-Beam Computed Tomography
How to Cite
Abstract
Introduction: Volumetric assessment of the upper airways has proven to be fundamental in orthodontic practice, since anatomical changes may be related to unfavorable skeletal patterns and respiratory disorders. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) stands out as a diagnostic tool because it offers high-resolution three-dimensional images with a lower radiation dose when compared to conventional tomography. In addition, CBCT enables more accurate linear and volumetric measurements, overcoming the limitations of traditional two-dimensional exams. Objective: Analyze the use of cone beam computed tomography in the volumetric assessment of the airway in orthodontic patients, highlighting its applicability in diagnosis and therapeutic planning. Methodology: In the bibliographic survey, the inclusion criteria were articles published in international and national journals written in Portuguese and English, as well as those published in the last 5 years, 2020 to 2025, and indexed in the databases: Pubmed and Lilacs, using literature reviews and randomized clinical studies. Articles containing clinical cases and textbooks published more than six years ago, not available in full, as well as those that deviated from the theoretical design and obtained results from animal experiments, were excluded. Conclusion: CBCT is a valuable tool in orthodontic diagnosis and monitoring of airway changes, contributing to more accurate and individualized planning. However, the need for standardized protocols and greater methodological uniformity between studies remains a challenge to be overcome.
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Copyright (c) 2025 Isabelle Matos, Fábio Catão, Heverton Lopes, Maria Vitória Reis, Sâmara Lopes, Thairiny Macedo, Sanmyo Oliveira
