Concordância no diagnóstico de assimetria dentária em tomografia computadorizada de feixe cônico

Some researchers have proposed tomography images for diagnosis in specific cases for adding information which can modify the treatment planning. Anteroposterior asymmetries between permanent first molars can lead to dental midline deviation so a careful analysis in the diagnosis of dental symmetry or asymmetry is essential. Objective: This study aims to verify the agreement in identifying dental symmetry or asymmetry in computed tomography cone beam (CBCT) by orthodontics students. Material and methods: Twenty-four orthodontics graduate students performed a reorientation of CBCT images to identify anteroposterior asymmetry between the first permanent molars. The dental casts of four patients were selected with the following criteria: 1. Without asymmetries; 2. Asymmetry in the maxillary arch only; 3. Asymmetry in the mandibular arch only; 4. Asymmetry in both arches. Results: The agreement on identification of dental asymmetries was almost perfect, and it was higher for the mandibular arch. However, the agreement was moderate when there was no asymmetry. Conclusions: The findings suggest that it is possible to identify dental asymmetries by means of CBCT. However, the reorientation process is a critical step and may lead to misdiagnosis.