Oral diagnosis and radiology is the general name of the examinations performed in dentistry for the diagnosis and treatment of patients’ oral problems. 

When people who have a problem with oral and dental health go to the hospital or clinic, these departments are the first places to be directed. In other words, it can be said to be a kind of pre-examination. These centres also operate as Dental Diagnostic Services. Procedures such as panoramic X-rays are performed here. It is also wondered what oral diagnosis is. This is essentially the subject of intraoral radiology.

In the oral diagnosis and radiology department, not only the problems of the patient’s teeth and gums are seen. In addition, the tissues on the jaw bones can also be examined. It is also possible to detect some diseases that are found in a different part of the body but may show symptoms in the mouth. 

What is Oral and Dental Radiology?

Oral and dental radiology is a branch of science that includes imaging methods used in the diagnosis and treatment of oral and dental diseases. With the help of these methods, images of the internal structures in the mouth and teeth can be obtained and thus early diagnosis and treatment of diseases is possible. Oral and dental radiology plays an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of oral and dental diseases. Thanks to these methods, the following diseases can be diagnosed and treated:

  • Tooth decay
  • Gum diseases
  • Tooth abscess
  • Bone fractures
  • Tumours

Tooth decay is the most common type of oral and dental disease. If diagnosed early, it can be treated more easily and less costly. Similarly, gum diseases are also frequently encountered. With early treatment, serious problems such as tooth loss can be prevented. 

What are Radiodiagnostic Methods in Dentistry?

Radiodiagnostics in dentistry is a branch of science that covers radiological methods used in the diagnosis of oral and dental diseases. These methods contribute to the early diagnosis and treatment of diseases by obtaining images of internal structures in the mouth and teeth. Radiological methods used in dentistry can be divided into two main categories:

1) Conventional Radiography

Conventional radiography is a method that allows visualization of the mouth and teeth in a single plane. These methods are classified as panoramic radiography, periapical radiography, bite-wing radiography, and occlusal radiography.

2) Digital Radiography

Digital Radiography is a method that enables oral imaging of the mouth and teeth. It has the advantages of emitting less radiation and providing higher image quality compared to conventional radiology.

How is Oral Diagnosis Performed?

Oral diagnosis plays an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of oral and dental diseases. To perform a good oral diagnosis, the dentist must perform a detailed and careful oral and dental examination. It is also important that the dentist uses radiological methods such as diascopy correctly and effectively. 

Several steps are followed when obtaining an oral image. Firstly, the dentist meticulously examines the condition of the teeth, gums, tissues between the gums, and soft tissues such as the tongue and palate during the oral and dental examination. 

According to the findings obtained in the oral and dental examination of the patient, radiology methods are used when necessary. In line with the findings, it makes a definitive diagnosis of the disease and creates a treatment plan.

Things to Consider When Performing Oral Diagnosis

In addition, there are some factors that the dentist should pay attention to to make a good oral diagnosis. During the oral and dental examination, the specialist should carefully examine the condition of the teeth, gums, tissues between the gums, and soft tissues such as the tongue and palate. In this way, early diagnosis of diseases is possible.

When using radiology methods, it should be acted in such a way that the patient is minimally exposed to radiation. In addition, they should be able to interpret the images obtained using radiology methods correctly. In addition, the medical history of the patients should be taken into consideration.

Why are Oral Diagnosis and Radiology Needed?

The oral and dental health department is concerned with a person’s healthy and trouble-free life. It is important to have knowledge and develop habits in this field. Early diagnosis is of great value in diseases encountered here. Therefore, oral and dental radiography is a branch that dentists attach great importance to. Thus, while protecting the oral and dental health of patients, other expectations are also met.

Last, it is important for people who have the question of what oral and maxillofacial radiology looks at to be informed in order to prevent related diseases. Istanbul Dental Center, which values the references of its patients and always keeps the ethics of dentistry at the forefront, keeps trust and quality at the forefront in all treatments it applies. 

It meets all the needs of its patients with its experienced team and laboratories with the best materials. For dental examination prices and similar questions about oral diagnosis and radiology, please make an appointment for a consultation. You can contact us from our contact information.

Are X-rays used in oral diagnosis and radiology harmful?

The amount of radiation you will receive during panoramic radiography is equal to the amount you will receive by sitting in front of a computer for 3 hours, talking on a mobile phone for one hour, traveling on a plane for 4 hours, and sunbathing for two hours. During radiography, the lead neck collar, lead vest, and aprons worn beforehand prevent your organs from receiving unnecessary dental X-rays.

Can radiography be performed while pregnant?

Although the amount of radiation emitted by radiography devices used in dentistry is very low and not at a level that threatens human health, radiography is not taken, especially in pregnant women or those with suspected pregnancy, except for urgent medical indications and doctor’s request. However, radiography may be requested if it is very necessary. Pregnant women must wear a lead apron when entering the radiology clinic.

What should patients pay attention to during oral diagnosis and radiology procedures?

Patients must be open to the dentist. During the examination, every question asked by the specialist should be answered correctly. Not only dental problems but also general health problems, if any, should be reported. It should not be forgotten that any situation that seems insignificant for the person before the treatment may cause a big problem.