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Diagnostics
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Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery
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Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery

A special issue of Diagnostics (ISSN 2075-4418). This special issue belongs to the section "Medical Imaging and Theranostics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 November 2025) | Viewed by 14847

Special Issue Editor

Prof. Dr. Yiu Yan Leung

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Discipline of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Faculty of Dentistry, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
Interests: orthognathic surgery; oral surgery; obstructive sleep apnea; oral and maxillofacial surgery; trigeminal nerve repair; temporomandibular joint surgery
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue aims to delve into the advancements and applications of various diagnostic tools and technologies that are revolutionizing the field of dentistry and maxillofacial surgery. From digital imaging techniques to sophisticated surgical planning tools, we will explore how these advancements are enhancing diagnostic accuracy, improving patient outcomes, and transforming clinical practice. We will cover a broad spectrum of topics, including but not limited to, digital radiography, cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT), CAD/CAM technology, and various diagnostic advances in dentistry and oral surgery. This Special Issue will feature literature reviews and original research articles, providing a comprehensive perspective on this rapidly evolving field. It aims to serve as a valuable resource for professionals in the dental and surgical field, researchers, and students alike, offering insights into the current state and future directions of diagnostic tools in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery.

Prof. Dr. Yiu Yan Leung
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Diagnostics is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • diagnostic tools and technologies in dentistry and maxillofacial surgery
  • diagnostic accuracy
  • digital imaging techniques
  • digital radiography
  • cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT)
  • CAD/CAM technology

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 955 KB  
Article
Cone-Beam CT-Based Analysis of Temporomandibular Joint Osseous Changes in Orthognathic Surgery Patients: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study
by Merve Berika Kadıoğlu, Mehmet Emre Yurttutan, Mehmet Alp Eriş and Meyra Durmaz
Diagnostics 2026, 16(1), 101; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16010101 - 28 Dec 2025
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 573
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate pretreatment osseous changes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in orthognathic surgery patients using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to determine the distribution of the findings according to sagittal skeletal malocclusion groups. Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate pretreatment osseous changes in the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in orthognathic surgery patients using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to determine the distribution of the findings according to sagittal skeletal malocclusion groups. Methods: CBCT images of 103 patients (206 condyles) were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were classified as Class I, II, and III based on ANB angles. Condylar morphology was assessed for flattening, sclerosis, erosion, osteophyte formation, and subchondral bone cysts. All evaluations were performed by a single investigator (κ = 0.87). Group differences were analyzed using the chi-square test with Bonferroni correction (p < 0.05). Results: The most frequent alteration was flattening (29.6%), followed by sclerosis (11.2%), erosion (10.7%), osteophyte formation (8.3%), and subchondral bone cysts (4.4%). No significant sex-related differences were found (p > 0.05). A significant difference was observed only in sclerosis (p = 0.049), which was more prevalent in Class I than Class III. Flattening predominated in all groups, while erosion and osteophytes were more common in Class II, and sclerosis was more frequent in Class I. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that condylar flattening was the most common morphological alteration in orthognathic patients across all skeletal malocclusion groups. The higher prevalence of sclerosis in Class I compared with Class III suggests that mandibular positioning may influence adaptive and degenerative remodeling processes of the TMJ. This study emphasizes the importance of CBCT evaluation for detecting osseous changes in TMJ before orthognathic surgery and demonstrates that pre-existing alterations may impact surgical stability and postoperative functional outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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20 pages, 641 KB  
Article
Comparative Fractal Analysis on Orthopantomography Images of Bone Remodeling Changes at 3 Months Between Natural Socket Healing and Immediate Implant Placement
by Andrei Radu, Mihaela Ionescu, Antonia Samia Khaddour, Cristina Maria Munteanu, Monica Mihaela Iacov Crăițoiu, Melania Olimpia Cojocaru, Alex Ioan Sălan, Iulia Roxana Marinescu, Răzvan Mercuț and Sanda Mihaela Popescu
Diagnostics 2026, 16(1), 96; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16010096 - 27 Dec 2025
Viewed by 494
Abstract
Background: Osseointegration is the main factor that ensures the long-term success of implant-prosthetic therapy, but besides this, there are other important factors, such as the quality of the alveolar bone and the time of placement of dental implants. The study aimed to analyze [...] Read more.
Background: Osseointegration is the main factor that ensures the long-term success of implant-prosthetic therapy, but besides this, there are other important factors, such as the quality of the alveolar bone and the time of placement of dental implants. The study aimed to analyze changes in the alveolar bone following tooth extraction, comparing natural healing with immediate implant placement, using fractal analysis on OPG images. Methods: This retrospective study included OPG images obtained before tooth extraction and 3 months after surgery in 91 patients who underwent maxillary and mandibular molar extractions and opted for either natural healing or immediate dental implant placement. Fractal analysis of OPG images was performed using Image J software, and the resulting measurements were subsequently statistically analyzed. Results: Most extractions were performed in the maxilla, and most were at the level of the first molar. The study group showed a faster healing process following immediate placement of dental implants, regardless of location, and a similar distribution of bone resorption and healing, with clear differences in location: the mandible had a faster healing process than the maxilla. Conclusions: Fractal analysis showed a better and quicker bone healing of the alveolar bone in immediate implant placement in molar areas compared with post-extraction natural healing, especially in the lower jaw. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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18 pages, 1810 KB  
Article
A Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study of the Morphological and Morphometric Variations in the Mandibular Lingula and Its Clinical Implications
by Hui Wen Tay and Wei Cheong Ngeow
Diagnostics 2025, 15(16), 2071; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15162071 - 18 Aug 2025
Viewed by 1313
Abstract
Background/Objectives: The mandibular lingula (ML) is a small bony projection on the medial surface of the ramus and serves as the first reference point identified during sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) or inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). Anatomical variations in the mandibular ramus [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: The mandibular lingula (ML) is a small bony projection on the medial surface of the ramus and serves as the first reference point identified during sagittal split ramus osteotomy (SSRO) or inferior alveolar nerve block (IANB). Anatomical variations in the mandibular ramus have been shown to exist across different populations. Understanding these population-specific differences enhances both clinical safety and diagnostic precision. However, there is a paucity of anthropological data amongst the Mongoloid population, especially in Southeast Asia. Hence, this study aimed to investigate the (i) distance of the lingula to different mandibular anatomical landmarks and its localization, (ii) lingula shape, and (iii) differences between gender and the sides of the mandible amongst the local ethnic groups. Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study consisted of 206 cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) images of 77 males and 129 females (mean age 33), with a total of 412 hemimandibles. Measurements were performed on three-dimensionally reconstructed CBCT images. Results: The most common shape was the truncated type. The distance of the lingula to the anterior (LiA), posterior (LiP), superior (LiS), and inferior (LiI) borders of mandible were 17.84 (2.25) mm, 14.46 (3.44) mm, 17.73 (3.00) mm, and 27.05 (4.40) mm, respectively. No significant difference exists between the sides of the mandible. Sexual dimorphism existed for all lingula measurements except LiA. Indians have smaller rami with more anteriorly and inferiorly placed ML than Malay and Chinese. The majority of ML was located 8.55 mm above the occlusal plane. Conclusions: This study provides information on the ML and its surrounding ramus structure in the local population. Such variations must be accounted for in SSRO and IANB. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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Review

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23 pages, 1648 KB  
Review
Current Concepts of the Applications and Treatment Implications of Drug-Induced Sleep Endoscopy for the Management of Obstructive Sleep Apnoea
by Chi Ching Joan Wan and Yiu Yan Leung
Diagnostics 2025, 15(20), 2614; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15202614 - 16 Oct 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2829
Abstract
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a complex health condition associated with significant health risks and diminished quality of life. Despite continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) being the gold standard treatment for years, its poor adherence is well documented. With the emergence of drug-induced [...] Read more.
Obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is a complex health condition associated with significant health risks and diminished quality of life. Despite continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) being the gold standard treatment for years, its poor adherence is well documented. With the emergence of drug-induced sleep endoscopy (DISE) and phenotypic approach to OSA, traditional surgical and non-surgical treatment pathways have been improved to allow personalised treatment and minimising suboptimal treatment to patients demonstrating various upper airway obstruction of OSA endotypes. Sedation protocol propofol, midazolam and dexmedetomidine have been suggested. The VOTE classification for documenting DISE findings have been proposed to unify results across studies. DISE plays an invaluable role in offering insights on treatment successes for positive airway pressure (PAP) therapy, mandibular advancement device (MAD) therapy, positional therapy, and surgical interventions including palatal surgeries, tongue base surgeries, upper airway stimulation (UAS) surgery and maxillomandibular advancement (MMA). This review aims at consolidating current evidence on DISE protocols, indications, and treatment implications to improve therapeutic success in OSA management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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20 pages, 3203 KB  
Review
Challenges in Diagnosing the Course of the Lingual Nerve for Clinical Practice and Research
by Wei Cheong Ngeow, Hui Wen Tay, Krishan Sarna, Chia Wei Cheah, Mary Raj, Surendra Kumar Acharya, Zhong Zheng Koo and Mang Chek Wey
Diagnostics 2025, 15(13), 1609; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15131609 - 25 Jun 2025
Viewed by 5426
Abstract
The accurate identification and protection of the lingual nerve during oral surgery are critical to avoid complications such as a loss of taste or sensation and chronic pain. While numerous studies have described the nerve’s anatomy and injury outcomes, no consensus exists on [...] Read more.
The accurate identification and protection of the lingual nerve during oral surgery are critical to avoid complications such as a loss of taste or sensation and chronic pain. While numerous studies have described the nerve’s anatomy and injury outcomes, no consensus exists on the optimal method to trace its full course. This narrative review systematically examined the literature from 2010 to 2024, using databases like PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and Google Scholar. Keywords included “Lingual nerve,” “Course,” “Anatomy,” and “Clinical implications,” combined with Boolean operators. Studies were selected based on defined criteria, and findings were synthesized to highlight key challenges in diagnosing the nerve’s path. This review identifies difficulties at multiple anatomical sites: the foramen ovale, infratemporal fossa, pterygomandibular space, third molar and retromolar regions, premolar/molar areas, floor of the mouth, and anterior gingiva and tongue. Lingual nerve injury, especially during lower third molar surgeries, remains a major concern, often exacerbated by factors like patient age, unerupted teeth, and lingual surgical approaches. Effective prevention hinges on precise anatomical knowledge and meticulous surgical technique. Microsurgical repair remains the primary treatment but often yields unpredictable outcomes. Emerging regenerative therapies show early promise but require further clinical validation. Imaging tools such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound may enhance diagnostic accuracy and surgical planning; however, each has limitations in everyday practice. Ultimately, early identification, careful surgical handling, and appropriate imaging support are vital for improving patient outcomes and minimizing the risks of lingual nerve injury. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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17 pages, 313 KB  
Review
Cone Beam Computed Tomography in Oral Cancer: A Scoping Review
by Muhammad Aiman Mohd Nizar and Syed Nabil
Diagnostics 2025, 15(11), 1378; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15111378 - 29 May 2025
Viewed by 2862
Abstract
Objectives: The present scoping review aims to explore and provide an overview of the current applications of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the management of oral cancer. Methods: This study was conducted in accordance with the JBI Guidance for Scoping [...] Read more.
Objectives: The present scoping review aims to explore and provide an overview of the current applications of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in the management of oral cancer. Methods: This study was conducted in accordance with the JBI Guidance for Scoping Reviews and reported following the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). A systematic search was performed across the following databases: PubMed, OVID, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library to answer the research question: “What are the current applications of CBCT in the perioperative management of patients with oral cancer?”. Results: A total of 52 studies met the inclusion criteria. Four major areas of CBCT application in oral cancer were identified: radiotherapy planning and monitoring (25 studies), assessment of bone invasion (16 studies), intraoperative surgical guidance (6 studies), and evaluation of treatment-related complications (5 studies). These findings highlight the diverse but focused use of CBCT across different stages of oral cancer management. Conclusions: CBCT is increasingly utilized in the perioperative management of oral cancer, with its application in radiotherapy planning and assessment being the most well-established. However, other uses, such as for surgical navigation and complication assessment, are still emerging, with promising evidence. Further research is needed to expand and validate these applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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Other

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17 pages, 1152 KB  
Systematic Review
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Diagnosing Vertical Root Fractures—A Systematic Review
by Abdulmajeed Saeed Alshahrani, Ahmed Ali Alelyani, Ahmad Jabali, Ahmed Abdullah Al Malwi, Riyadh Alroomy, Amal S. Shaiban, Raid Abdullah Almnea, Vini Mehta and Mohammed M. Al Moaleem
Diagnostics 2026, 16(3), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16030406 - 27 Jan 2026
Viewed by 591
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Vertical root fractures (VRFs) present significant diagnostic challenges due to their subtle radiographic features and variability across imaging modalities. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers potential to improve detection accuracy, yet evidence regarding its performance across different imaging systems remains fragmented. To critically evaluate [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Vertical root fractures (VRFs) present significant diagnostic challenges due to their subtle radiographic features and variability across imaging modalities. Artificial intelligence (AI) offers potential to improve detection accuracy, yet evidence regarding its performance across different imaging systems remains fragmented. To critically evaluate current evidence on AI-assisted detection of VRFs across periapical radiography, panoramic radiography, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and to compare diagnostic performance, methodological strengths, and limitations. Methods: A systematic review of literature up to January 2025 was carried out using databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. The studies included in this review utilized AI-based techniques for detecting VRF through periapical, panoramic, or CBCT imaging. Extracted data encompassed study design, AI models, dataset sizes, preprocessing methods, imaging parameters, validation techniques, and diagnostic metrics. The risk of bias in these studies was evaluated using the QUADAS-2 tool. Results: Ten studies met inclusion criteria; CNN-based models predominated, with performance highly dependent on imaging modality. CBCT-based AI systems achieved the highest diagnostic accuracy (91.4–97.8%) and specificity (90.7–100%), followed by periapical radiography models with accuracies up to 95.7% in controlled settings. Panoramic radiography models demonstrated lower sensitivity (0.45–0.75) but maintained high precision (0.93) in certain contexts. Most studies reported improvements over human performance, yet limitations included small datasets, heterogeneous methodologies, and risk of overfitting. Conclusions: AI-assisted VRF detection shows promising accuracy, particularly with CBCT imaging, but current evidence is constrained by methodological variability and limited clinical validation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Diagnostic Tools for Dentistry and Maxillofacial Surgery)
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