E. Whaites, N. Drage. Churchill Livingstone price £47.99; pp 496 ISBN

9780702045998

Written by two of the most eminent names in dental radiology, this popular book is now in its fifth edition and covers traditional imaging techniques with updates and expansions on new imaging modalities.

The book is detailed and comprehensively covers almost all that a general practitioner, undergraduate and postgraduate could want to know about radiology and radiography. The book is divided into four sections. The first looks at the radiographic image and provides an introduction; the second looks at physics, equipment and radiation protection; the third looks at radiography and covers the taking of more common images such as periapicals and bitewings and more specialist imaging such as cone beam computed tomography. The final section covers interpretation of radiographs.

The book is well laid out, with each chapter starting with the basics before moving on to more complex areas. This is helpful as it means the information is accessible to all; you can start from the beginning and work through full chapters, or simply access a particular area you are interested in. The text within the book is very detailed; however, there are a huge number of clear images and prints of radiographs, which enable you to more fully appreciate what is being explained. Where appropriate, images of normal anatomy are provided, often prior to discussing pathology, which I found helpful to refer to.

There is the additional benefit of an online self-assessment module, available once you purchase the book, which contains multiple choice questions, extended matching questions and 'drag and drop' style questions. This would be very useful for anyone revising for undergraduate or postgraduate examinations. There are specific online modules aimed at dental care professionals, enabling targeted learning.

One of the only criticisms I would have of the book is the fact that there are very limited colour photographs and diagrams, which can make the pages appear a little dull.

I can see why previous editions of this book have been so popular. It is easy to dip in and out of, so knowledge on particular topics can be easily refreshed. The clear explanations make a potentially arduous topic to revise an interesting read. A must have for undergraduates and GDPs alike!