Consensus Statement 1: CBCT provides cross-sectional images for linear bone measurements with high accuracy and reliability

With regard to implant treatment planning, CBCT provides cross-sectional images that demonstrate high accuracy and reliability for linear bone measurements with a relatively low radiation dose according to As Low as Diagnostically Acceptable (ALADA) guidelines. This statement is based on a total of 19 studies: one clinical, five cadavers, and 13 dry jaws/skulls studies.

Consensus Statement 2: CBCT scans can be over- or underestimated with range of error exceeding 1 mm

The actual linear dimensions taken from CBCT scans can be over- or underestimated, and the range of error can exceed 1 mm in selected cases. This statement is based on a total of six studies: two clinical, two cadavers, and two dry skull studies.

Consensus Statement 3: Higher resolution does not lead to a higher accuracy

A smaller voxel size resulting in a higher resolution does not lead to a higher accuracy of linear measurements on CBCTs for bone dimensions at edentulous sites. This statement is based on a total of four studies: one cadaver, and three dry skull/jaws studies.

Consensus Statement 4: Size of the field of view and partial rotations do not adversely affect measurements

The size of the field of view and partial rotations (180° vs. 360°) do not adversely affect linear measurements. This statement is based on one cadaver study (addressing the FOV) and one dry mandibles’ study (addressing the impact of rotation).

Consensus Statement 5: Accuracy is independent of the software package

Reported accuracy is independent of the software package used. This statement is based on one study (dry mandibles).

1) CBCTs are the imaging tool of choice for three-dimensional dental implant site assessment

CBCTs should be considered the imaging tool of choice for three-dimensional (3D) dental implant site assessment.

2) A safety margin of 2 mm to relevant anatomic structures is recommended

Based on Consensus Statement 2, a minimal safety margin of 2 mm to relevant adjacent anatomic structures should be considered.

3) Smaller voxel sizes do not result in increased accuracy and partial rotations should be used for preoperative implant treatment planning to reduce radiation dose exposure

Smaller voxel sizes do not result in increased accuracy of linear measurements on CBCT scans. A voxel size of 0.3–0.4 mm3, the smallest FOV, and if possible partial rotations should be used for preoperative implant treatment planning in order to reduce radiation dose exposure: this should result in similar image quality as scans comprised of smaller voxel size or larger FOV.