Reasons for taking radiographs in general dental practice |
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Authors: | Fahema Osman Crispian Scully Tom Dowell Robin Davies |
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Institution: | University of Bristol Dental Hospital and School, Bristol, England;Bristol and Weston Health Authority, Bristol, England |
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Abstract: | This survey investigated the reasons why general dental practitioners take radiographs. 179 (54%) dentists responded and provided information for 2359 patients who were radiographed during a specified week. Of those patients aged less than 15 yr, 62% were radiographed primarily for orthodontic purposes and 22% for caries. In older age groups, caries was the predominant reason for taking radiographs but endodontic assessment assumed increasing importance with age and accounted for 37% of radiographs in patients aged more than 45 yr. Only 8% of patients were radiographed for periodontal reasons. These findings are discussed with respect to the changing pattern of disease and treatment provided in general dental practice. |
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Keywords: | dental practice radiographs |
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