Introduction

Oral and maxillofacial radiology (MFR) is the discipline that deals with the use of X-rays and other kinds of radiation for the diagnosis of diseases and conditions of the maxillofacial region. The aim of the present review is to analyze the contribution of MFR to the clinical diagnosis.

Review

National laws usually establish the requirements to authorize the use and installation of ionizing radiation generating equipment, nevertheless, there is a lack of regulation regarding the responsibility of the radiographic diagnosis. Because of this, it is necessary to apply ethical considerations and principles of radiation protection to guarantee the responsible use of the radiographic examinations. There should be a person responsible of the radiographic diagnosis, who must be a dentist with knowledge in radiographic interpretation and with continuing education courses in MFR. The radiographic request and taking are fundamental actions that contribute the responsible of radiographic diagnosis to elaborates a correct diagnosis. Nowadays, MFR is recognized as a specialty in more than 50 countries, however, there is a need of its acknowledgment in other countries. Due to the MFR specialist training, his/her existence contributes to a better radiographic diagnosis, with the consequent impact on clinical diagnosis and patient treatment.

Conclusions

MFR is a fundamental discipline for determining the clinical diagnosis of the patient. In order the radiographic exams contribute the treating clinician to offer the best clinical attention to the patient, it is fundamental these exams have a correct and complete radiographic diagnosis, performed by a professional with training and knowledge in MFR, ideally an MFR specialist.

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