Evaluation of 3D printing filaments for construction of a pediatric phantom for dosimetry in CBCT

Abstract

Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has been widely used in orthodontics, due to the ability to provide visualization of mineralized tissues in high definition and consequently the identification and delimitation of three-dimensional irregularities. Compared with 2D imaging techniques, the doses used in CBCT exams are higher. Considering that the pediatric and adolescent population routinely receives orthodontic treatments, it is important to note that the cellular development phase of the organs is associated with increased tissue sensitivity to radiation, and that cancer is one of the main long-term effects caused by exposure to X radiation. In recent years, the 3D printing technique has been used in the medical industry because it allows the reproduction of structures of the human body, enabling detailed studies in several application areas. The objective of this work was to study the different types of filaments available for 3D printing of structures that will compose a phantom for dose evaluation in the pediatric and adolescent population who undergo CBCT exams.