American Board of Orthodontics (ABO) Practice Exam 2025 - Free Orthodontics Practice Questions and Study Guide

CT (Computed Tomography) is recognized for providing detailed cross-sectional images of the body, which can assist in comprehensive assessments of various conditions, especially in complex anatomical areas. However, this imaging modality utilizes a higher level of ionizing radiation compared to other imaging techniques.

The high radiation exposure from CT scans is due to the need for multiple X-ray images to be taken from different angles, which are then processed to create detailed 3D representations. This is particularly relevant in assessing conditions where fine structural details are critical, such as in the evaluation of bone fractures, tumors, or complex dental anatomy.

In contrast, traditional X-rays subject patients to lower doses of radiation, while MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) does not use ionizing radiation at all, instead relying on magnetic fields and radio waves. Arthrography may involve some exposure to radiation but typically is not on the same scale as that of CT scans. Thus, the noted high radiation exposure associated with CT scans distinguishes it as a significant consideration when choosing imaging methods for assessment.