ABSTRACT
A survey of current U.S. and Canadian dental school policies shows different opinions about whether intraoral radiographs are invasive procedures and would require antibiotic prophylaxis before treatment.
Subject(s)
Anti-Bacterial Agents/therapeutic use , Dental Care for Chronically Ill , Heart Diseases , Premedication , Radiography, Dental , Canada , Clinical Protocols , Humans , Organizational Policy , Schools, Dental , Surveys and Questionnaires , United StatesABSTRACT
Although various studies have indicated that there is no statistical difference in the diagnostic value between D- and E-speed films, and resolution and contrast were reported as being identical, the general acceptance of E-speed film has been slow. The dental profession is faced with a decision: Do we use the slower D-speed film that might be more "cosmetic" in appearance or use E-speed that can reduce radiation by as much as 50 percent? Recent research has indicated that 85 percent of parotid gland exposure is the result of dental radiography and carries an increased risk for meningiomas and tumors. It is the opinion of some that risk factors now dictate that only the fastest speed (E-speed) film should be used.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
