Delaying Intraoral Radiographs during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Conundrum

Area of Science:

• Dentistry
• Radiology
• Infectious Disease Control

Background:

• COVID-19 pandemic heightened concerns regarding cross-infection in dental settings.
• Dental treatment delays, including radiography, became common due to infection control measures.
• Emergency dental care necessitates accurate diagnosis through intraoral or extraoral radiography.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the justification for delaying intraoral radiographs during the pandemic.
• To explore alternative, non-traditional radiographic techniques.
• To provide insights into managing dental radiography amidst pandemic-related infection control challenges.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of current literature and guidelines.
• Analysis of cross-contamination risks associated with intraoral radiography.
• Assessment of extraoral radiographic techniques as alternatives.

Main Results:

• Intraoral film holders pose risks of cross-contamination via respiratory droplets, gag reflex, coughing, and saliva.
• Extraoral radiographic imaging techniques are prioritized by health guidelines to minimize infection.
• Cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) and sectional dental panoramic radiographs (SDPRs) are identified as safer alternatives.

Conclusions:

• Delaying essential dental radiography may not be justified, especially for emergency treatments.
• Prioritizing extraoral radiography, such as CBCT and SDPRs, is crucial for patient and staff safety.
• Risk assessment for COVID-19 should guide the selection of radiographic modalities to ensure an innocuous dental environment.