Effect of exposure parameters of cone beam computed tomography on metal artifact reduction around the dental implants in various bone densities

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to assess the effect of exposure parameters such as milliampere (mA) and field of view (FOV) of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) on a metal artifact of dental implants placed in different bone densities. METHODS: FOV and 4 and 10 mA. Gray value of the bone blocks was recorded before and after placement of implants. RESULTS: In general, irrespective of bone density, the amount of artifacts was lower in small FOV compared to large FOV (P < 0.05). Change of mA had no effect on metal artifacts (P > 0.05). Artifacts in type 4 bone were greater than in other bone types (P < 0.05). Difference between type 1 and types 2 and 3 was not significant (P > 0.05). CONCLUSION: According to the results of this study, Peri-implant artifacts were seen in all bone types; the amount of artifacts in type 4 bone was higher than that in other types. Size of FOV and bone density affect the metal artifacts around dental implants; so that a smaller FOV can be used to decrease metal artifacts.