Simulated dental cone beam computed tomography using Timepix

Novel photon counting detectors such as Timepix could allow novel applications within the dental practice. The feasibility of Timepix detector use for dental cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) was studied. The Timepix is a photon counting detector with pixel pitch of 55 μm. It provides better signal-to-noise properties and spatial resolution compared to standard imaging detectors used in dental applications. Due to the intrinsic properties of conventional detectors used for current CBCT, the clinical dental application is limited to macroscopic observation of 3D structure of anatomy or pathology. The advantages of Timepix could be utilized for clinical dental applications such as localization and demarcation of dental caries and dental calculi, demarcation of the tooth root form from surrounding alveolus bone, replacement of conventional dental impression techniques for varies uses.