title: Three-dimensional spiral computed tomographic imaging: a new approach to the diagnosis and treatment planning of impacted teeth.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The aim of this investigation was to explore the validity of 3-dimensional (3D) spiral computed tomographic (CT) images to examine impacted teeth before surgical or orthodontic treatment.
  
  
  METHODS
  Two patients with impacted teeth were examined with both spiral CT and traditional radiographs.
  
  
  RESULTS
  3D CT images clearly showed the impacted teeth, including crown, root neck, and root bifurcation; the labial or palatal location; and the eruption orientation and relationship to the dentition.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  3D CT images obtained with 3D surface reconstruction of spiral CT images is accurate and effective for examining impacted teeth before orthodontic treatment.
authors.affiliation: West China College of Stomatology, Sichuan University, Sichuan, PR China. cyxlfx@vip.sina.com
authors.forename: Yuxue
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.forename: Peijia
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Duan
authors.forename: Yukun
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Meng
authors.forename: Yangxi
authors.initials: Y
authors.lastname: Chen
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002648:Child; D003481:Cuspid / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D006801:Humans; D007180:Incisor / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D008297:Male; D008963:Molar / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D011862:Radiography, Panoramic; D012391:Root Resorption / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D036542:Tomography, Spiral Computed; D014095:Tooth, Impacted / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*