How to Select the Right Field of View (FOV) Size for Dental CBCT

Looking into making the switch to 3D imaging? Welcome aboard, you and your patients are about to benefit from advanced diagnostics and treatment planning in the third dimension!

Now, where to start? Well, if you were to make the call to Renew Digital, our sales rep would first ask about what procedures are you currently offering (and plan to offer with CBCT)? This will help us gauge what the maximum field of view (FOV) size that you need for your practice and patients.

Regardless of manufacturer, dental cone beam systems are typically categorized by three FOV groups: small, medium, and large.

The FOV size is largely determined by the applications or procedures for which it will be used. Most medium and large FOV cone beam dental systems can often collimate down to achieve smaller FOV sizes, if needed. Each manufacturer sets their own field of view sizes, so they can differ greatly by model. FOV sizes are typically measured in centimeters (cm).

And, it's important to also keep in mind, the FOV size has a direct impact on the price you'll pay. The larger sensors are more costly, but add value in advanced diagnostics such as sleep and airway studies.

The FOV determines the scan area captured in a single image and directly impacts the machine's utility, patient safety, and diagnostic precision. This article explores the different FOV sizes available, their applications, and how to choose the right one for your practice.

What is Field of View (FOV) in CBCT Imaging?

Whoa..whoa. Hold up, what is Field of View?

The Field of View (FOV) refers to the size of the area scanned during a CBCT imaging session. CBCT systems offer various FOV sizes, ranging from small, localized scans to large, comprehensive scans of the entire maxillofacial region.

Selecting the correct FOV is crucial as it impacts:

• Image Resolution: Smaller FOVs typically produce higher-resolution images.
• Diagnostic Efficiency: Choosing the right FOV ensures you capture the necessary details without scanning unnecessary regions.

Types of FOV Sizes

CBCT systems generally offer three categories of FOV sizes, each suited to specific applications.

1. Small FOV (4 cm - 8 cm)

• Description: Focuses on localized regions, such as a single tooth or quadrant.

• Applications:

  • Endodontics: Diagnosing root fractures, missed canals, or periapical lesions.
  • Implant Planning: Evaluating a specific site for bone density and proximity to anatomical structures.
  • Orthodontics: Assessing individual tooth positions.

• Advantages:

  • Lower radiation exposure.
  • High image resolution for detailed diagnostics.

2. Medium FOV (8 cm - 15 cm)

• Description: Captures an extended area, often covering both arches or the mandible and maxilla.

• Applications:

  • Orthodontics: Analyzing tooth alignment, skeletal structure, and bite relationships.
  • Multi-Implant Planning: Scanning multiple implant sites simultaneously.
  • TMJ Analysis: Evaluating temporomandibular joint disorders.

• Advantages:

  • Provides a balance between detail and coverage.
  • Ideal for practices serving both general and specialty dentistry needs.

3. Large FOV (15 cm - 20 cm or more)

• Description: Scans the entire craniofacial region, including the airway and sinuses.

• Applications:

  • Orthognathic Surgery: Comprehensive imaging for surgical planning.
  • Airway and Sleep Apnea Analysis: Evaluating obstructions and airway volume.
  • Complex Maxillofacial Cases: Diagnosing fractures, tumors, or other large-scale issues.

• Advantages:

  • Comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.
  • Suitable for multi-disciplinary practices or oral surgeons.

Factors to Consider When Selecting FOV Size

1. Practice Specialty

Your specialty heavily influences the ideal FOV size for your CBCT system:

• Endodontics: Prioritize small FOVs for high-resolution imaging of individual teeth.
• Orthodontics: Medium or large FOVs are better for analyzing skeletal relationships and full arch alignment.
• Oral Surgery: Large FOVs are essential for assessing the full craniofacial anatomy.

2. Patient Demographics

Consider the typical cases you handle in your practice:

• Pediatric patients may benefit from smaller FOVs due to lower radiation exposure.
• Adults with complex conditions, such as TMJ disorders or sleep apnea, may require larger FOV imaging.

3. Radiation Dose

Using the smallest necessary FOV minimizes patient radiation exposure while capturing only the required diagnostic area. This aligns with the ALARA (As Low As Reasonably Achievable) principle.

4. Equipment Versatility

Some CBCT systems offer adjustable FOV sizes, providing flexibility to handle various cases. For example:

• Carestream CS 9600: Offers multiple FOV options, ranging from small to large.
• Planmeca ProMax 3D: Features adjustable FOV sizes for versatile applications.

5. Budget and ROI

Larger FOV systems tend to cost more. Consider your budget and the potential return on investment based on the services you plan to offer.

Shop All FOV Sizes with Renew Digital

Renew Digital offers small, medium, and large FOV cone beam from a variety of respected brands. The best part is that you get this top-notch quality imaging at 30-50% off the cost of buying new, and every purchase includes installation, training, and a warranty featuring our 5-star customer service and tech support. Shop online today or contact a Sales Representative to help find the right unit for your practice.