Radiographic Selection Criteria
Course Number: 584
Course Contents
Radiographic Examination of the Recall Patient
Bitewing radiography, primarily for the purpose of detecting interproximal caries, is the only time-based type of radiographic examination included in the guidelines. The recommended intervals are based on research regarding the rate of caries progression through tooth structure and factors that indicate the patient may be at increased risk for caries. Risk factors associated with caries development include poor oral hygiene, high frequency sucrose exposure, and low fluoride intake. The ADA provides further information on caries risk assessment.123
Table 6 summaries the radiographic recommendations for recall patients with no clinical caries or those who have a low caries risk. In addition, recall patients who presents with clinical caries or who have a high caries risk are addressed as well.
| Table 6. Radiographic Examination of the Recall Patient Based on Caries Risk.1,3 | |||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Recall Patient Recommendations Based on Caries Risk | |||||
| Recall Patient | Child with Primary Dentition | Child with Mixed Dentition | Adolescent with Permanent Dentition | Adult Dentate Partially Dentate | Adult Edentulous |
| With No Clinical Caries or Low Caries Risk | Bitewings at 12 to 24 month intervals if contacts are closed | Bitewings at 12 to 24 month intervals if contacts are closed | Bitewings at 18 to 36 month intervals if contacts are closed | Bitewings at 24 to 36 month intervals | Not Applicable |
| With Clinical Caries or High Caries Risk | Bitewings at 6 to 12 month intervals if contacts are closed | Bitewings at 6 to 12 month intervals if contacts are closed | Bitewings at 6 to 12 month intervals | Bitewings at 6 to 18 month intervals | Not Applicable |