Fundamentals of Radiographic Interpretation for the Dentist

Abstract

Radiographic imaging is an integral part of the diagnostic process in clinical dentistry. This article provides the fundamentals of radiographic interpretation beginning with evidence-based guidelines on dental radiographic selection criteria and cone beam computed tomography use. The goal is to present to the reader with a systematic approach to radiographic interpretation such that no significant features are overlooked and an optimal differential diagnosis can be achieved. In addition, medicolegal considerations of radiographic acquisition, interpretation, and storage are discussed.

Keywords: Cone beam computed tomography; Diagnosis; Digital radiography; Medicolegal; Radiology; Selection criteria.