Role of oral and maxillofacial radiology in clinical dentistry Current status and future perspective in Japan

The clinical use of imaging modalities in dentistry has so far been limited to hospitals affiliated with dental schools in Japan. The recent advances in digital radiology in dentistry, however are expected to help close the gap. Digital images are easy to transmit with its related informtion by telecommunications between the general practitioner and hospitals, among the hospitals and between the department of oral and maxillofacial radiology and the other clinical departments within the hospital. Digital radiography also is expected to help make radiographic information more accessible to general practitioners in Japan. Therefore, the demand for precise interpretation of images and the proper use of ionizing radiation in dentistry will be greater than ever, increasing the demand for specialists in oral and maxillofacial radiology. Furthermore, oral radiologists have to have enough experience and skill to meet the demand for consultaion and discussion from other departments and general practitioners across national borders and fields of specialty.