An evaluation of radiographic imaging currently used for treatment planning by practicing orthodontists : a pilot study
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This study examined the influence of practice and orthodontist demographics on the utilization of the different imaging types used for treatment planning. A 17-question survey, approved by the UMKC IRB, was distributed to 2300 members of the American Orthodontic Association. The survey contained three domains: orthodontist demographics, orthodontist practice characteristics, and radiographic imaging used in treatment planning. Radiographic imaging types used for treatment planning that were evaluated included lateral cephalometric, panoramic, and cone-beam computed tomography radiographs (CBCTs). To determine associations between orthodontist demographics and practice characteristics in relation to radiographic imaging used for treatment planning, Fisher’s exact or Chi-squared tests were used. There were 139 respondents to the survey with 86% utilizing panoramic, 85% utilizing lateral cephalometric, and 32% utilizing CBCT for treatment planning in practice. Survey data revealed that younger orthodontists and associates in practices were statistically more likely to utilize CBCTs in practice than panoramic or lateral cephalometric radiographs. Those with CBCT training in residency were statistically less likely to utilize lateral cephalometric radiographs in practice. There was also a statistically significant difference among all categories of imaging type compared to the number of orthodontists in a practice. Opinion questions revealed that the majority of respondents would ideally use a panoramic (68%) and lateral cephalometric (65%) radiograph for treatment planning, have not purchased a CBCT due to cost, and do not plan to purchase a CBCT machine in the future (67%). Overall, the results of this study suggest that some orthodontist demographics and practice characteristics are significantly associated with the type of radiographic imaging used for treatment planning in practice. With the use of CBCT being more prevalent among more recently graduated orthodontists, it could become the radiographic imaging standard for orthodontists, which could enhance the accuracy of treatment planning.
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Introduction -- Methods -- Results -- Discussion -- Conclusions
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M.S. (Master of Science)