# Microstructural Evaluation of Dental Implant Success Using Micro-CT: A Comprehensive Review
## 11 Discussion
The creation of sophisticated micro-CT scanners that prioritize a low radiation dose is also emphasized, as this enables repeated imaging of small animals in longitudinal studies while minimizing potential health risks [92]. It is anticipated that the advancement of low-dose reconstruction methodologies will prove beneficial in facilitating longitudinal imaging studies, particularly in the context of sensitive areas such as the coronary arteries in small animals. This will permit researchers to monitor disease progression over time without increasing the radiation doses that they administer. By focusing on this strategy, the researchers were able to overcome the limitations associated with using micro-CT, thereby increasing its usefulness in preclinical research and translational applications. Therefore, this micro-CT scanner with a low radiation dose represents a significant advancement for longitudinal studies in small animals [92]. Image quality is critical in the evaluation of musculoskeletal and dental pathology. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), radiography, ultrasonography, and computed tomography (CT) are commonly used modalities in this area. MRI has good soft tissue contrast, radiography is widely available, and CT is better at imaging changes in bone. Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging is useful in the detection of orthopedic pathology, dental pathology, joint trauma, and radiotherapy planning. CBCT has a low spatial resolution, so it can only see clinical features as small as 500 \(\upmu\)m. This is not sufficient to observe changes in bone microstructure. Traditionally, bone microstructure can only be seen with micro-CT [108]. A micro-CT scan is the gold standard for the microstructure of the bones of a human or experimental animal [20]. Compared to CBCT scanning techniques, micro-CT has several advantages and disadvantages. The main advantage of micro-CT is its higher resolution, which allows for more detailed analysis, while the main disadvantages are the longer scan time and higher cost [20]. However, while cost and time are considerations, the benefits of more accurate analysis are often worth the investment, especially in the context of research and development of new implants [109]. In addition, the use of micro-CT can help understand the interaction between the implant and the surrounding tissue, which is important for improving clinical outcomes and reducing the risk of complications [110]. Therefore, the specific objectives of the research and the available resources should be considered when choosing between these two techniques. A comparison of micro-CT, CBCT, and MRI in relation to dental implants is presented in the following table (Table 5), which outlines the key differences between the three imaging modalities. In terms of cost, the use of micro-CT requires a significant or expensive investment [111]. However, this investment can provide significant long-term benefits in terms of innovation in the use of micro-CT for dental implantation [112]. Therefore, it is important for researchers and developers to conduct a thorough analysis of the potential benefits that can be obtained from micro-CT before deciding which method to use [22]. In addition, collaboration between different disciplines can accelerate the process of development and application of micro-CT [113]. With the involvement of experts from engineering, biomedical, and clinical fields, it is expected that the solutions found will be more comprehensive and effective to meet the needs of patients [114]. In addition, a better understanding of the mechanism of action of micro-CT can open up new opportunities in the research and development of more biocompatible and efficient implant material [110]. In addition to the challenges associated with the storage of scanned data and the extended scan duration when utilizing micro-CT, the development of effective solutions to these issues is imperative.