Sir, we have noted the letter by Y. Zanganah (BDJÂ 2009; 207: 96) and consider that his conclusion concerning the importance of radiographs is flawed.
He states that radiographs in general practice are part of a clinical examination, however, they should not be taken routinely. There must be a clinical justification for every radiographic exposure.1
A complaint of 'discomfort in the region of the lower left wisdom tooth' is probably not best investigated with an orthopantomograph (DPT) but rather with an intra-oral image or a DPT with field limitation.2
If a dentist plans to refer a patient for specialist advice and/or treatment it may be correct not to expose radiographs. However, if radiographs have already been taken it is essential to forward them to the specialist.3
References
The Ionising Radiation(Medical Exposure) Regulations 2000 (IR(ME)R). London, HMSO.
Rushton V E, Horner K. The use of panoramic radiology in dental practice. J Dent 1996; 24: 185–201.
Selection Criteria for Dental Radiography. FGDP(UK) Good Practice Guidelines. 2004. Faculty of General Dental Practitioners (UK).
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Thom, A., Isaacson, K. Flawed conclusion. Br Dent J 207, 408–409 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2009.967
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.2009.967
