DrBicuspid.com Dental Imaging Insider

Dear Imaging Insider,

One of the hottest topics in dentistry these days is the relationship between oral bisphosphonates and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). Do bisphosphonates really put some patients at greater risk of developing ONJ?

A study published in this month's issue of Oral Diseases might help answer the question. Researchers from several Boston-area teaching hospitals looked at the role of panoramic x-rays in assessing the presence and severity of bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw (BONJ), particularly for cancer patients who have undergone IV bisphosphonate therapy.

In our latest Imaging Insider Exclusive, two dentists and a dental radiologist debate the study's methodology and findings. The lead author, who notes that this is the first study to evaluate the panoramic radiograph features of BONJ and their relationship to clinical findings of the disease, contends their data demonstrates that "radiographic findings of sclerosis, surface irregularity, and persistent sockets correlate significantly with clinical sites of BONJ."

Our imaging expert, on the other hand, says the study presents "nothing new." What's your take? Read more.

In other Imaging Community news, a recent study by the ADA concluded that paper-based scans of radiographic images are suitable for insurance purposes in most cases. For some in the dental community, however, the issue isn't what kind of images should be submitted to insurers, but how often it is necessary. Read more.

In product news, some new imaging products recently hit the market that could improve the way you do impressions. Sirona has unveiled the Cerec AC, an advanced digital impression unit for CAD/CAM dentistry built on its proprietary Cerec Bluecam technology, while Delcam introduced DentCAD, a computer-aided design program that can help you create all kinds of dental restorations.

Over on the Word of Mouth page, Dr. Allan Farman and Dr. Ted Parks share their thoughts on the new Kodak large field-of-view cone-beam CT system, the need for attention to detail when taking digital x-rays, and whether it is time to reconsider the full-mouth series.

Finally, if you've got a technology question -- imaging or otherwise -- check out our new technology Q&A feature, Ask Marty, hosted by Martin Jablow, D.M.D., a practicing dentist and self-professed technophile. Our first topic covers digital caries detectors, and whether you should consider acquiring one.

If you have a technology question for Marty, e-mail it to [email protected]. If we use it, you'll receive a $10 gift card from Amazon or Starbucks!