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.