TITLE:
The Factors Driving Moroccan Orthodontists to Adopt Cone-Beam Imaging in Clinical Practice
AUTHORS:
Lahcen Ousehal, Amine Majid, S. Elbenna
KEYWORDS:
Radiography, Cone-Beam Computed Tomography, Orthodontics
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Access Library Journal,
Vol.11 No.7,
July
31,
2024
ABSTRACT: Nearly two decades since Cone Beam-Computed Tomography (CBCT) was introduced in dentistry, this technology has been proven to be a useful asset in modern dental practice. The information gleaned from a CBCT scan influences treatment decisions and prognostication of some orthodontics cases. Objective: To evaluate the reasons for the use of cone beam by Moroccan orthodontists in their clinical practice. Materials and Methods: We carried out a descriptive cross-sectional study to evaluate professional practices regarding CBCT as an imaging technique in orthodontics. To do this, we conducted a questionnaire that was sent via e-mail to all teachers and specialists in orthodontics in Morocco. Then, an analytical study was carried out with the help of the Microsoft Excel software in order to allow us to interpret the results obtained. Results: Our study achieved a response rate of 51%. The findings indicated that 100% of Moroccan orthodontists use CBCT as a secondary diagnostic tool rather than routinely. Analysis revealed a notable prevalence of CBCT prescription among Moroccan orthodontists, particularly among those with 10 to 20 years of experience, tapering off among those with over 20 years of experience. According to our survey, CBCT was primarily employed for locating impacted teeth, supernumerary teeth, and root resorption. Conversely, its use for orthognathic surgery and cleft lips was less frequent. Moroccan orthodontists demonstrated confidence in their CBCT expertise, which they attribute to widespread training in its use and interpretation. However, the acquisition of CBCT equipment remains a significant challenge for many practitioners. Most orthodontists reported refraining from using CBCT scans for children due to high costs and radiation exposure, factors that also deter patient requests for CBCT. Finally, a majority of Moroccan orthodontists anticipate that in five years, CBCT will be prescribed only when clinically necessary rather than routinely. Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that CBCT is finding its place more and more in Moroccan orthodontic practice. Moroccan orthodontists are aware of the interest of this new technology in their daily practice. Efforts should be made to improve the equipment status of Moroccan orthodontists to make them more easily use it.