EAPD guidelines for use of radiographs in children

Abstract

Guidelines in dental radiology are designed to avoid unnecessary exposure to X-radiation and to identify individuals who may benefit from a radiographic examination. Every prescription of radiographs should be based on an evaluation of the individual patient benefit. Due to the relatively high frequency of caries among 5 year old children it is recommended to consider dental radiography for each child even without any visible caries or restorations. Furthermore, radiography should be considered at 8-9 years of age and then at 12-14, that is 1-2 years after eruption of premolars and second molars. Additional bitewing controls should be based on an overall assessment of the caries activity/risk. The high-risk patient should be examined radiographically annually, while a 2-3 years interval should be considered when caries activity/risk is low. Routine survey by radiographs, except for caries, has not been shown to provide sufficient information to be justified considering the balance between cost (radiation and resources) and benefit.