Accuracy of linear TMJ measurements with cone beam computed tomography and digital cephalometric radiography

The purposes of this study were to: (1) determine whether dento-maxillofacial (DMF) cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) produces accurate MPR images of a temporomandibular joint (TMJ) articulation; (2) compare the accuracy of DMF CBCT with traditional digital extraoral radiography; and (3) compare the reproducibility of measurements made of the TMJ using DMF CBCT with traditional digital extraoral radiography.;Ten linear measurements of the TMJ and associated structures were compared using 25 dried skull specimens for DMF CBCT as well as cephalometric projections. Means and standard deviations were compared using ANOVA and post-hoc tests (Dunette's Test) at a significance level of p ≤ .05.;The results show DMF CBCT is significantly more accurate than traditional extraoral radiography for all 10 measurements made of the TMJ and associated structures. Although the measurements were less reproducible for the modalities tested than for the measurements made directly on the skulls, all were within clinically acceptable limits.