The main objective of the study was to evaluate the presence of artifacts in cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images and their relationship with the density of the materials used in endodontic treatments. Three types of materials were analyzed: gutta-percha, fiberglass posts, and metal posts, in order to identify which generates more artifacts and which can interfere with anatomical structures and affect diagnosis.

Thirty-six donated human premolars that had been extracted for orthodontic treatment were used. They were disinfected with sodium hypochlorite solution and water and prepared biomechanically. Gutta-percha and NeoSealer Flo® bioceramic cement were used for the filling. The teeth were divided into three groups: G1, filled only with gutta-percha and cement; G2, with fiberglass posts; and G3, with metal posts. CBCT images were obtained by placing the teeth in a resin-printed jaw perforated to simulate alveoli, covered with pink wax and immersed in water to simulate soft tissue. A 4x4 cm field of view (FOV) was used.

The results showed that the most frequent artifact was glare, followed by noise and metal artifact. Although glare was more common, metal objects generated the highest percentage of artifacts. The standard technique presented 9.6% artifacts, while the high-definition (HD) technique showed 6.8%. Noise was predominant in the standard technique (60.5%) and almost nonexistent in the HD technique (3.7%).