ADA Radiograph Recommendations

Ada Recommendations

For Prescribing Dental Radiographs

Frequency

Justification

New Patients

• Initial radiographs as needed, based on clinical judgment.
• Full-mouth series may be considered.

• Establish baseline
• Evaluate dental condition.

Recall Patients

• Bitewing radiographs every 6-18 months, depending on caries risk and history.
• Panoramic radiograph every 3-5 years.

• Monitor caries progression.
• Evaluate changes in oral structures.

Children

• Bitewings every 6-12 months, depending on caries risk and eruption patterns.
• Panoramic by age 7 or when necessary for treatment planning.

• Monitor caries progression.
• Assess development and eruption of permanent teeth.

Adolescents

• Bitewings every 6-18 months, depending on caries risk and eruption patterns.
• Panoramic by age 12-16, or when necessary for treatment planning.

• Monitor caries progression.
• Assess development and eruption of permanent teeth.

Adults

• Bitewings every 18-36 months, depending on caries risk and periodontal status.
• Panoramic every 5-10 years, depending on clinical indication.

• Monitor caries progression.
• Evaluate changes in oral structures.

New Patients

Justification of Radiographs

The primary reason for obtaining radiographs in new patients is to establish a baseline to compare against future changes. They help in diagnosing existing issues and planning for potential treatments by providing a detailed view of the teeth, bones, and supporting tissues of the mouth.

Recall Patients

Justification of Radiographs

These radiographs help in monitoring progression of dental caries and other changes in oral structures. For patients with a history of or high risk for dental diseases, more frequent imaging may be necessary to closely monitor their condition.

Adolescents

Frequency of Radiographs

Adolescents are recommended to have bitewing radiographs at a frequency similar to high-risk children, which is every 6-18 months. A panoramic radiograph should be taken around the ages of 12-16, especially when planning for orthodontic treatment.

Children

Justification of Radiographs

Regular radiographs in children are essential for monitoring caries progression and assessing the development and eruption of permanent teeth. These images help in early detection and treatment of dental issues, promoting better oral health.

Adolescents

Justification of Radiographs

During adolescence, dental care focuses on monitoring caries progression and the development of the permanent teeth, including the wisdom teeth. Panoramic radiographs are particularly useful for assessing the growth and position of these teeth as part of comprehensive orthodontic treatment planning.

Recall Patients

Frequency of Radiographs

For patients returning for regular check-ups, bitewing radiographs are recommended every 6-18 months, depending on the individual's risk of dental caries. A panoramic radiograph, which captures the entire mouth in a single image, may be advised every 3-5 years.

New Patients

Frequency of Radiographs

New patients may require a set of initial radiographs to assist in the comprehensive assessment of oral health. A full-mouth series of radiographs, which typically consists of 18 to 20 periapical and bitewing films, can be considered if there's no current diagnostic-quality radiographs available.

Children

Frequency of Radiographs

Children should have bitewing radiographs at intervals of 6-12 months if they have a higher risk for caries. A panoramic radiograph is recommended by age 7 or when there's a need for orthodontic treatment planning.

Adults

Frequency of Radiographs

Adults should have bitewing radiographs at a frequency of 18-36 months based on caries risk and periodontal health. A panoramic radiograph is suggested every 5-10 years, unless specific clinical conditions necessitate more frequent imaging.

Adults

Justification of Radiographs

For adults, the use of radiographs aids in the monitoring of caries progression, the evaluation of periodontal status, and the identification of any changes in oral structures. They are a key component in maintaining oral health and managing ongoing dental conditions.