Computerized tomography (CT) uses x-rays to produce a digital description of an image that can be displayed on a computer monitor or on film. The computer program can rearrange the data and reformat the series of images along the curvature of the bone of the alveolar ridges. The CT scan produces images that are close to life size and allows for cross-referencing anatomical structures in three dimensions. Computerized tomography is indicated in the diagnostic phase for dental implants for the maxillae and mandible to accurately locate anatomical structures and to further evaluate bone quantity and quality. Some limitations of CT scan usage include the presence of streak artifacts created in the presence of metal restorations, cost, and the requirement that the patient must remain still during the entire scan (about 10 to 15 minutes). The history, methodology, and specific uses for computerized tomography are presented in this essay.
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