What type of imaging is best for determining interapical width of adjacent teeth for implants?

The most effective imaging technique for determining the interapical width of adjacent teeth for dental implant placement is Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT). This advanced imaging modality provides three-dimensional views, allowing for precise measurements of the bone dimensions and the spatial relationship between the teeth.

CBCT scans yield high-resolution images that can distinctly showcase the anatomical structures of the jaw, including the width between tooth apices. This information is critical for implant planning as it helps clinicians assess the vertical and horizontal dimensions of bone and any potential anatomical variations or pathologies in the area.

While a CAT scan, which can also provide three-dimensional images, is less commonly used for dental assessments due to higher radiation exposure and less dental-specific resolution compared to CBCT, it is not the preferred choice for determining interapical width specifically in this context. Other imaging techniques, like standard X-rays and ultrasound, do not provide the level of detail and dimensional accuracy needed for such precise measurements, making them insufficient options for implant planning when assessing the interapical width between teeth.