Use of computed tomography to evaluate the inferior alveolar nerve in third molar surgeries: narrative literature review

Abstract

One of the most common procedures in the day-to-day practice of the dental surgeon (DS) is the extraction of lower third molars. Panoramic radiography (PR) and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) are among the imaging exams that the DS can use to better analyze the case. However, the use of CBCT should take into account both clinical and patient aspects. To discuss the indications for CBCT and RP in the extraction of lower third molars.To collect the articles, the Boolean operators AND and OR were crossed with the descriptors and free terms Decs/Mesh in Portuguese and English: "Tomografia Computadorizada" or "Computed Tomography", "Nervo Alveolar Inferior" or "Inferior Alveolar Nerve", "Terceiro molar" or "Thir Molar", "Radiografia Panorâmica" or "Panoramic-X-Ray". Both RP and CBCT have their own specific characteristics, as they both arose in different historical contexts, but both provide important imaging results for correct diagnosis and surgical planning. RP and CT are two extremely important imaging exams for planning exodontia of third molars in close contact with the inferior alveolar nerve. It is up to the DS to analyze the extent to which this radiation dose is relevant, the legal support that one technique may bring to the detriment of another.

Keywords: Exodontia, Panoramic Radiography, Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT).