Efficacy of panoramic radiography in dental diagnosis and treatment planning

We compared treatment decisions based on a clinical examination alone with decisions based on an examination plus a panoramic radiograph to determine whether the panoramic radiograph increased the diagnostic yield and consequently affected treatment. Provisional treatment plans, based on a screening clinical examination alone (n = 33), or on a screening clinical examination plus panoramic radiograph (n = 43), were compared with final treatment plans based on a complete diagnostic assessment (including all necessary radiographs). For this analysis, the final treatment plan was considered correct and used as the gold standard. The two groups used in the comparison were equivalent in age, gender, and final treatment plan needs. The availability of a panoramic radiograph did not improve the accuracy with which provisional treatment plans predicted the number of teeth requiring composites, amalgams, crowns, or extraction, nor did it improve the accuracy of the assessment of the periodontal status (Wilcoxon rank sum, alpha = 0.05). The proportion of patients who had an intra-oral full-mouth series as part of the complete diagnostic work-up was essentially the same for both groups (58% and 60%, respectively); the availability of the panoramic film did not reduce the need for full-mouth series radiographs for the development of the final treatment plans.

Multiple radiopaque masses in the jaws

In this report, the less common oral findings occurring in Gardner's syndrome are described, which occurred concurrently with colorectal polyposis. In addition, what clinically appeared as small intestinal polyps, microscopically represented nodular lymphoid hyperplasia, as reported in the literature. Review of the literature showed the oral findings reported here are not common and that enzyme assays can help detect polyps at an early stage of this complex syndrome.

Calcification of the dental papilla. A rare finding

An interesting case is reported, of calcification of the dental papilla. As yet, little is known about this asymptomatic calcification, which constitutes a rare radiographic finding, deforming the root of a vital tooth, generally a lower premolar or canine.

Panoramic screening for dental anomalies assessed by professionals with identical and different backgrounds

The aim of the present study was to evaluate how dental professionals with identical and different backgrounds assess dental anomalies viewed on panoramic radiographs. 101 panoramic radiographs performed of 9-to-10-yr-old children were examined independently by three orthodontists and two radiologists. All observers agreed on the recording of number and identification of congenitally missing permanent teeth. The observers' assessments of malpositioned teeth, teeth in infraocclusion, and primary teeth with atypical/non root resorption varied, however, to a great extent. Two of the orthodontists seemed to report only major deviations from normality (in 38 and 51 of the children respectively) while one reported several more findings (in 85 children). The radiologists reported abnormal findings in 80 and 88 children respectively. In only three children were no dental anomalies reported by any observer. The inconsistent reporting of the majority of dental anomalies (except for agenesis) in children, even among members of subgroups with a similar educational background (e.g. orthodontists), substantiates the need for an evaluation of the expedience of panoramic screening.

Clinical recommendations for the use of D-speed film, E-speed film, and xeroradiography

This article assesses the diagnostic utility, radiation dose, equipment reliability, patient acceptance, and costs associated with D-speed film, E-speed film, and dental xeroradiographs for intraoral imaging. From the analysis and review of laboratory studies and clinical trials, conclusions and recommendations are offered.

The diagnostic value of panoramic radiographs in children aged nine to ten years

The increased awareness of the possible harmful effects of ionizing radiation has resulted in concern at the number of panoramic radiographs taken in General Dental Practice. A study has been carried out to examine the diagnostic value obtained from panoramic radiographs taken at 9-10 years of age. Nine-hundred-and-eighty-two radiographs were examined and 261 (26.5 per cent) showed findings which would be of significance in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning.

Autotransplanted teeth with early-stage endodontic treatment: a radiographic evaluation

Autotransplantation of teeth has been performed for many years and with varying degrees of success. The present report concerns the long-term results of autotransplantation of 36 teeth with completed root formation. Endodontic treatment was started before or within 12 weeks after transplantation. At the final check-up 32 teeth were present, 24 of them without signs of inflammation, replacement, or internal resorption. Careful radiographic examination during the follow-up period and adequate therapeutic measures with inter alia renewed endodontic treatment are of importance for successful autotransplantation.

Radiographic and visual assessment of alveolar pathology of first molars in dry skulls

There are many reports in the literature relating to the dental pathology of ancient peoples. In most instances only visual observations of alveolar lesions have been made, precluding assessment of covert dental lesions. The present paper was undertaken to compare the incidence of alveolar dental lesions determined by both visual and radiographic methods in a group of Australian aboriginal skulls. First molars of the right side were used for the comparison: approximately ten percent more lesions were found by the radiographic method. The data demonstrated the limitation of either technique alone. The strong association between pulp exposure and furcal, angular, and apical lesions suggests that pulpal lesions provoke periodontal changes that have traditionally been assigned to a gingival etiology. The location of the lesions within the periodontium would appear to be determined by the location of the pulpal pathology and the pathways through dentin between that location and the periodontal ligament.

Generalized hypercementosis

The case of an elderly female patient with a long-standing history of generalized hypercementosis is described. A thorough review of the literature indicates that this may be one of the most extensive cases of hypercementosis to be reported. Possible etiologic factors--including heredity, systemic disorders, chronic periapical infection, and abnormal occlusal trauma--are discussed.

Radiological findings in 1135 edentulous patients

A sample consisting of 1135 edentulous patients with clinically healthy denture bearing areas, was examined radiologically. It appears that the diagnostic yield is high whereas the expected radiation induced risk is low. Patients should therefore be examined radiologically prior to full denture construction.