Are children’s dental panoramic tomographs and lateral cephalometric radiographs sufficiently optimized?

Abstract

Most DPTs and LCRs had been performed sub-optimally. An abundancy of DPTs had been taken using an adult programme, and the field-size had not been sufficiently adjusted in LCRs, possibly for technical reasons. To facilitate adherence to radiological best practice the equipment used for DPTs and LCRs should facilitate the adjustment of field-size in both the vertical and horizontal planes. In addition, those involved in taking radiographs should maintain their skills through regular update courses.

Application of segmented dental panoramic tomography among children: positive effect of continuing education in radiation protection

“…Compared with our data from 2010, 6 in the same age group of 7-12-year olds, the application of the adult DPT programme decreased by 11%, from 78% in 2010 to 67% in 2013-14. Application of the child DPT programme increased by 9%, from 22% in 2010 to 31% in 2013-14, and application of the segmented DPT programme increased by 2% from 0% in 2010 to 2% in 2013-14 ( Figure 1).…”

“…Our previous studies show that segmented DPT technique has not been previously applied at all among 7-12-year olds, despite 19% of DPTs in this age group being taken for monitoring orthodontic treatment. 5,6 Based on the result of the present study, we have been successful in promoting the use of a new technique, the segmented DPT, albeit it remained somewhat rare (2%). In the literature, however, there are studies that show a positive effect of continuing education in radiation protection in the form of courses, practical training and feedback on radiation dose reduction strategies during radiography of the maxillofacial area among dental practitioners, dental care professionals, staff radiologists and technologists.…”

“…6 Segmented DPT can be achieved by simply selecting any desired section of the dental arch seen in the control panel of a dental panoramic device. Several sections of the jaws can be imaged too, if necessary, and the final image consists of only the imaged sections, chosen from the tooth-bearing area.…”

“…5 Moreover, they have disclosed a complete lack of segmented DPTs, even among the 19% of the images that had been taken for monitoring orthodontic treatment. 5,6 Furthermore, in our Finnish material, 78% of DPTs of 7-12-year olds had been taken using an adult programme instead of a child programme. 6 The aim of this study was therefore (i) to contribute to the application of segmented DPT programmes in practice, especially among children, (ii) to increase awareness and use of the child DPT programme when applicable and (iii) to evaluate the impact of continuing education in radiation protection in radiological practice.…”

“…6 Hence, the reference data and the novel data were identical in terms of healthcare provider and age group of the patients. Comparison between 2010 and 2013-14 data allowed us to analyze the effect of the intervention programme with regard to hypothesized decrease in the frequency of selection of adult DPT programme.…”