Photon-counting detector vs. cone-beam CT in endodontics: a study of simulated endodontic conditions, treatments, and associated complications

PCD-CT demonstrated superior diagnostic performance over CBCT across multiple endodontic tasks, particularly at high and standard doses. Even at low doses, PCD-CT maintained robust accuracy and image quality, outperforming dose-matched CBCT in most parameters. Endodontic working length assessment was equally reliable across both modalities. Overall, PCD-CT offers diagnostic advantages over CBCT, particularly in challenging cases involving complex anatomy or high-density materials. Its effective performance at lower radiation levels emphasizes its clinical potential and supports broader implementation in dentomaxillofacial diagnostics.