Speaker: Lavina Myers, RDH, MPH, HPE

Program Track: Clinical

Course Description: Historically, dentistry has relied on two-dimensional imaging, which continues to play a crucial role in treatment planning, diagnosis, and post-treatment evaluations. However, two-dimensional imaging has its limitations in providing a complete picture. Since the introduction of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the United States in 2002, over 11,000 units and more than 60 different models have been adopted in dental practices. As dental hygienists, it is essential for us to understand both the risks and benefits associated with CBCT use in patient care. The quality of the images and the radiation dose are heavily dependent on the operator, and the acquired CBCT volumetric data allows for an interactive. This presentation will focus on our critical role in acquiring and interpreting CBCT images in our daily practice.

Learning Objectives:

• Compare and contrast CBCT and panoramic imaging protocols.
• Identify the most common artifacts on CBCT.
• Apply appropriate radiation safety standards before, during, and after acquisition on CBCT.
• Choose the appropriate field of view for the diagnostic task.
• Identify parts of the CBCT machine.

CE Credit Hours: 1.0

Original Date of Session: January 14, 2026

The American Dental Hygienists' Association is designated as an approved provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHADH (Jan. 1, 2026–Dec. 31, 2026). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit.

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is an approved provider of dental continuing education as recognized by the Dental Board of California, Provider #5238.