Influence of voxel size and scan field of view on fracture-like artifacts from gutta-percha obturated endodontically treated teeth on cone-beam computed tomography images

ObjectiveTo determine the optimal scan settings (scan mode and position of field of view [FOV]) for cone beam computed tomography to reduce root fracture-like artifacts that are often observed in teeth filled with gutta-percha cones (GPCs).Study DesignFracture-like artifacts that appeared on cone beam computed tomography images of 9 extracted human mandibular premolars filled with GPCs were analyzed using I-mode (FOV, 102 mm; voxel size, 0.2 mm) and D-mode (FOV, 51 mm; voxel size, 0.1 mm) settings.ResultsThe artificial lines were more obvious in I-mode than in D-mode. Increased distance between the center of the FOV and the GPCs produced stronger artificial lines in both I-mode and D-mode.ConclusionTo reduce fracture-like artifacts, it is critical to use a mode with small voxel size and to place the target tooth in the center of the FOV.