ANALYSIS OF THE DIFFERENT INFORMATION OBTAINED FROM PANORAMIC RADIOGRAPHS AND CONE BEAM COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHS, IN A CASE REPORT IN DENTISTRY

Abstract

Panoramic radiography, which is low cost and easily accessible, is widely used in dental practice, providing an overview of the maxillomandibular structures, but with limitations in the accuracy of the diagnosis of changes introduced in the TMJ. CBCT, on the other hand, despite being more expensive and exposing the patient to a higher dose of radiation, offers high-quality three-dimensional images, allowing a more detailed and accurate analysis, especially in cases of osteoarthritis and other bone changes. This study aims to analyze the different information obtained by panoramic radiography and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the diagnosis of temporomandibular disorders (TMD). Through the report of a clinical case, where panoramic radiography and CBCT imaging exams were obtained, it was possible to analyze the information obtained in both exams, highlighting the importance of choosing the appropriate imaging method for each clinical situation. It is concluded that, although panoramic radiography is effective for an initial assessment, in more evident changes, CBCT stands out as a more reliable tool in the assessment of degenerative changes in the TMJ, which are fundamental for the effective treatment of TMD.