Evaluation of Two Expedient Techniques in Reducing Metal Artifacts in Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT)

Abstract

Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT) has become an indispensable imaging modality in dentistry, providing high-resolution three-dimensional imaging of maxillofacial structures. However, the presence of metallic restorations and prostheses often produces artifacts, particularly beam hardening and streak artifacts, which may compromise diagnostic accuracy. This study evaluates two expedient techniques—the puffed-out technique and cotton roll placement—for their efficacy in reducing metal artifacts in CBCT scans. Fifty patients with metallic crowns and restorations were included and randomly assigned into two groups. Group A employed the puffed-out technique where patients puffed their cheeks during imaging, while Group B involved placement of cotton rolls buccally and lingually adjacent to crowns. Artifact severity was assessed using linear and angular measurements of streaks. The puffed-out technique showed minimal effect, with results statistically not significant (p>0.05), while cotton roll placement demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in streak artifacts (p≤0.05). These findings suggest that cotton roll placement is a simple, inexpensive, and clinically effective method to reduce CBCT metal artifacts and improve diagnostic accuracy.