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Dentist Radiology Analysis

Decent Essays

Radiology should be used in dentistry because it is needed to find hidden structures. According to the article Dental X-Rays, the American Dental Association makes it clear, “ … x-ray pictures can show cavities, hidden dental structures(such as wisdom teeth), and bone loss that cannot be seen during a visual examination” ( par. 1). In other words, the American Dental Association implies that during a visual examination a dentist or dental assistant is not able to see hidden structures in the mouth, this can lead to serious dental problems. The wisdom teeth, or third molars might be impacted, meaning it has not erupted yet, but are still there and may need to be extracted. With the use of radiology, oral surgeons can take radiographs to see …show more content…

Phinney and Judy H. Halstead claim, “Impacted teeth, abscesses, supernumerary teeth or disorders of the temporomandibular joint can be determined from the panoramic film” (593). Donna J. Phinney and Judy H. Halstead observes that teeth that have not yet erupted, infections at the roots of the teeth called abscesses, and extra teeth are all classified as hidden structures. It is vital that the dentist catches these structures early on because it can lead to complications in the future. Through the use of x-rays, dentists are able to find these structures with a panoramic film that shows the surrounding sinuses and any abnormalities. In the article An Endodontic Necessity, states that “ ... the dental pulp, the periodontal ligament and the bone surround the tooth. These three structures are impossible to visualize clinically during your exam”(Andrew Stubbs par.1). In Andrew Stubb’s view, is it is simply impossible for the Endodontist, or doctor that specializes in the dental pulp, to even begin to do their job thus why taking radiographs are a must. The pulp is hidden inside the tooth and is not visible during an …show more content…

The article Panoramic Dental X-Rays states that “This examination is also used to plan treatment for full and partial dentures, braces, extractions and implants” (American Dental Association par. 5). In other words, taking radiographs are a huge part in properly diagnosing a treatment plan. Radiographs provide solid evidence on what is really going on besides just looking in the mouth visually. The radiographs would be a stepping stone in seeking the correct treatment plan. In the book Dental Assisting Comprehensive Approach, the author states “Bitewing radiographs, usually taken only on the posterior teeth, are used to detect caries, faulty restorations, calculus, and to examine the crestal area of the alveolar bone” (Donna J. Phinney and Judy H. Halstead 435). Essentially, dental radiographs are highly valuable as they are needed to detect certain things in the mouth. Caries, or cavities, can be shown on a bitewing radiograph. They are necessary in showing how deep the cavity is and its exact location. Radiographs would then be used to determine how the cavity would be restored, or treated. According to the article When to send X-Rays, Delta Dental explains “...supporting documentation such as x-rays or charts help us determine if treatment is covered under the patient's benefit plan”(Delta Dental par.1). In other words, radiographs are also essential to provide evidence for the patient’s

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