[Narrative review of imaging studies of calcifications of the submandibular gland]

Sialolithiasis is one of the most common pathologies of the major salivary glands and occurs more frequently in the submandibular glands. Between 80 and 95% of sialoliths develop in the submandibular glands, between 5 and 20% in the parotid gland, and only 1% in the sublingual gland. Sialoliths form within the parenchyma and associated duct systems. In Wharton's duct (80-90%) and only 15% in the gland. Sialolithiasis is the cause of pain and inflammation of the salivary gland by obstructing the duct and preventing salivary secretion, before, during and after food.The objective of this article was to review the different diagnostic imaging methods used for the study of calcifications of the submandibular gland, based on different studies reported in contemporary scientific literature, in order to establish the correct diagnosis. A search of the literature was carried out in the main information sources including Medline (via PubMed), SEVIER, SCIELO, and LILACS, using the search terms with a date limitation of the last 5 years on average. The selected articles included information regarding the calcifications of the salivary glands. Imaging studies of salivary gland calcifications can be obtained with conventional radiographs, Sialography, Ultrasonography (US), Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MR).

[Use of current imaging tools for the study of odontogenic myxoma. A review of the literature]

Odontogenic myxoma (OM) is currently classified as a benign tumor of ectomesenchymal origin, observed between the second and fourth decade of age, with a predilection in women and predominance in the mandibular region, composed of rounded and angular cells embedded in an abundant myxoid stroma, of aggressive biological behavior, having the characteristic of being locally infiltrative. Tumor cells spread in the intratrabecular space beyond the bone limit, making it difficult to determine the edge of the tumor, even without cortical continuity, presenting intermittent direct contact with soft tissue; the appearance can be unilocular (small lesions), or commonly the typical image is that of a destructive lesion with poorly defined borders with a multilocular growth pattern, for which the use of advanced medical images such as Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CTHC), Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), are useful to establish an adequate diagnosis with the ability to point out the characteristics of OM with precision and three-dimensional perspective. This review presents a systematic analysis of the types of imaging tools currently used for the study of OM.

New technologies in oral radiology as a diagnostic aid for monostotic fibrous dysplasia: a review

Monostotic fibrous dysplasia is a benign asymptomatic lesion that affects only one bone, which is replaced by amorphous connective tissue. Clinically there is an increase in the volume of the affected area, which is observed by imaging as a radiopaque area with diffuse non-corticalized limits capable of expanding to neighboring structures, and it is histologically evidenced as "resembling Chinese characters". The lesion is seen as a radiopaque image with diffuse borders in conventional or digital radiography, while cone beam computed tomography identifies the exact location and extension of an isodense, mixed or hyperdense image of non-corticalized edges. Magnetic resonance imaging is also used when the lesion involves soft tissues or nerves, and bone scintigraphy is performed in order to systemically observe bone quality. The objective of this article was to describe the new technologies in oral radiology for the diagnosis of monostotic fibrous dysplasia and the importance of the current imaging methods in achieving an adequate diagnosis. These techniques range from conventional radiography to bone scans, which provide images of higher quality, clarity and better precision with less invasive techniques to the patient. This review of the literature helps to expand the knowledge of dental professionals in relation to the clinical and imaging characteristics of monostotic fibrous dysplasia.

[Imaging features of osteomyelitis of the jaws with different diagnostic methods. A review]

Osteomyelitis of the jaws (OM) is an infectious pathology involving the bone marrow. It is due to various etiologies, the main one being odontogenic. The diagnosis of OM is a challenge for dentists, who must rely on clinical and imaging examinations. Panoramic radiography is the most frequently used imaging test, but it has some limitations that have improved with the incorporation of new imaging methods such as computed tomography, cone beam computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and bone scintigraphy with radionuclides. The purpose of this review was to describe the imaging characteristics of OM of the jaws according to the radiological diagnostic methods available in the literature in order to provide radiologisst with greater knowledge and improve reporting in daily practice.

Cone beam computed tomography for the diagnosis of external root resorption associated with orthodontic treatment: A review

External root resorption (ERR) is a highly prevalent, multifactorial problem frequently associated with orthodontic treatment. Treatment is complex due to the lack of solid knowledge regarding predisposing factors, systematic management for diagnosis and follow-up protocols or thefundamental theoretical bases of adequate imaging tools for each situation. This review describes the indications of the use of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and the factors related to its development and the characteristics of the techniques used in the diagnosisand monitoring of ERR in orthodontics. We compared the advantages and disadvantages of CBCT based on the risk/benefits. Methods: We have reviewed and summarized the information and the risk factors available on ERR in orthodontics and the use of CBCT in the diagnosis and follow-up of ERR with the aim of developing a management protocol. Likewise, CBCT is compared with other imaging techniques frequently used in ERR. The articles reviewed in this study coincide in terms of the advantages of precision of CBCT in the detection and linear and volumetric measurement of ERR associated with orthodontics over two-dimensional techniques. However, CBCT cannot completely replace other imaging techniques since its effectiveness is not significantly greater in cases with moderate ERR compromise. The use of CBCT should be optimized following specific criteria for its application.