Justification and optimization of intraoral and panoramic radiographs in oral care
The new guideline of the Dutch Society for Oral Health Care Guidelines (KIMO) ‘Indication for intraoral and panoramic radiographs’ offers oral care providers a practical framework for the targeted use of intraoral and panoramic radiographs in screening, diagnosis, treatment and follow-up. It specifies, among other things, when and how often bitewings are indicated based on caries risk; which radiographs (horizontal/vertical bitewings, periapical) are appropriate in periodontal destruction, and how to use periapical images in endodontic treatment, including 1-year follow-up. Regarding implantology, the guideline describes when a (dental) panoramic and/or periapical radiograph is required in the pre-implant phase, during implant placement and in aftercare. In addition, it guides imaging in the context of restorations, pain, orthodontics and third molars, often with explicit reference to other guidelines, ensuring an appropriate and well-justified radiograph can be selected in all clinical situations.