Cone beam computed tomography(CBCT) is a new type of high-resolution three-dimensional(3D) X-ray imaging system. CBCT can not only display the height, width, and thickness of the alveolar bone stereoscopically, but it also can display the 3D information of jaw defects. The range and boundary of jaw lesions, bone destruction, condition of involved teeth, and adjacent relationship between the teeth and surrounding anatomical structures from all directions can be accurately shown. In the early diagnosis of vertical root fracture, the sensitivity and accuracy of vertical root fracture revealed by CBCT is considerably higher than periapical radiography and orthopantomography. Images of longitudinal fracture crack obtained by axial tomography are clearer than those of coronal and sagittal tomography. However, the streak artifact and beam hardening produced by CBCT can reduce the quality of scanning images. The resolution of CBCT is lower for soft tissues, so the lesions of pulp and periapical soft tissues cannot be accurately shown. With further development of the system configuration and software, CBCT is expected to become the most ideal image equipment for the diagnosis of oral diseases.
