Indications and technical parameters of cone beam computed tomography in paediatric dentistry at Alexandria and Cairo universities: a retrospective study

Abstract Purpose To investigate the utilization of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in paediatric dentistry, focusing on the indications, referring departments, age distribution, oral regions examined, and fields of view (FOV) at Alexandria and Cairo universities. Methods This retrospective observational study reviewed records from 2018 to 2024 of patients under 19 years who underwent CBCT scans in the radiology departments. Data were analysed by sex (6–12 years and 13–<19 years), imaging area (anterior/posterior, mandible/maxilla), and indications following the 2011 SEDENTEXCT guidelines: dental anomalies, impacted teeth, endodontics, bone pathosis, orthodontics, and others. Results Out of 988 patient records with CBCT scans, 260 paediatric cases were analysed. Referrals mainly came from the oral and maxillofacial surgery department (50%) and the paediatric dentistry department (40%). The primary reasons for CBCT scans included impacted teeth (40%), endodontic treatments (19.6%), and orthodontic assessments (15.8%). Significant usage patterns were noted across age groups, with 53.1% of patients aged 6–12 years and 46.9% aged 13–18 years. A diverse range of oral regions was examined, including the anterior mandible (30%), posterior mandible (25%), anterior maxilla (20%), and posterior maxilla (25%). Conclusion The findings reveal that CBCT is primarily used for assessing impacted teeth, endodontic treatments, and orthodontic needs in children and adolescents. Patients aged 6–<13 years were more often referred for endodontic issues, while those aged 13–<19 needed imaging for impactions and orthodontics. Differences in FOV among centres indicate varied clinical practices. Clinical significance The study underscores the indications of CBCT in paediatric dentistry and the diverse clinical practices at both universities and highlights the need for tailored imaging protocols.