[Radiological considerations of malpractice in dentistry]

Several branches of competence are needed to evaluate malpractice in dentistry: first a complete case history, secondly careful clinical observation and finally a correct procedure of radiographic documentation. This latter is able to prove existence of the treatment and its evolution, moreover it shows the bone, the dental components underneath the surface and the treatment becomes appraisable by different observers. In restorative dentistry, radiological findings allow us to demonstrate overcontoured restorations in approximal sites and, if necessary, identify the biological width. In endodontics the insufficient filling or the overfilling of the root channel can be demonstrated along with the material used for the filling and the presence of fractured instruments inside the channel. In prosthodontics, on the other hand, the quality of the abutments, fractured roots and/or prosthesis, symptoms of inadequate charge on the bone and overcontours with the subsequent periodontal damage can be seen. In orthodontics one can assess the appearance of infrabone pockets, reabsorptions and horizontal recessions. In extractive surgery it is again possible to identify through radiographic documentation small root fragments in the maxillary sinus (possible sinusitis associated) and maxillary fractures as a consequence of extractions. In the field of implantology, damage to noble structures due to inadequate case planning can be highlighted.