Professor, Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology The University of North Carolina, Adams School of Dentistry Chapel Hill, North Carolina, United States
This session provides clinicians with practical, evidence-informed guidance on appropriate patient selection for dental imaging including conventional radiography and cone-beam computed tomography. Emphasizing the principles outlined by the ADA and AAOMR recommendations, the course highlights the importance of conducting a thorough clinical examination prior to imaging and integrating patient-specific factors such as medical and dental histories, risk assessment and existing diagnostic information. Participants will explore how to balance diagnostic benefits with radiation exposure risks and avoid routine or convenience-based imaging. Through case-based discussion and clinical scenarios, attendees will strengthen their ability to make justified, patient-centered imaging decisions that support optimal diagnosis and treatment planning.
Learning Objectives:
Apply patient selection criteria by ensuring that radiographic screening is not performed before a comprehensive clinical examination and that imaging decisions are based on patient history, risk assessment, clinical findings and prior imaging.
Determine when imaging is appropriate by evaluating whether the diagnostic and treatment planning benefits outweigh the potential risks associated with radiation exposure.
Justify imaging decisions using clinical evidence including examination findings and patient-specific risk factors, prioritizing patient benefit over routine or convenience-based imaging practices.
