Alveolar Bone Mineral Density Measurement using CBCT Images

Background: The cone beam computed tomography (CBCT), as a non-destructive tool, provides a fast and convenient method for clinicians to diagnose related diseases. Even though some debates still exist among researchers, some studies have demonstrated the feasibility of bone mineral density measurement using CBCT images. Periodontal disease is one of the most common oral diseases. Accurate assessment of periodontal support and alveolar bone condition is very important. However, measuring BMD using CBCT imaging is still controversial. Objective: In this paper, an experiment was carried out to demonstrate the feasibility of bone mineral density measurement using CBCT images. Methods: A step-wedge phantom was used to estimate the effective spectrum of X-ray. And the spectrum was to eliminate and correct beam hardening artifact. Calculate BMD from the corrected images. Conclusion: The result showed that it is possible to measure bone mineral density using CBCT images.