British dental journal
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Cone Beam Computed Tomography is a relatively new three-dimensional imaging technology, which has been specifically developed for imaging of the teeth and jaws. The aim of this paper is to acquaint the dental team with various forms of this technology and its potential applications. An understanding of the underlying principles will allow the users of this technology to tailor the imaging protocol to the patient's individual needs to achieve appropriate imaging at the lowest radiation dose.
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On 12 May 2008, an earthquake with a magnitude of 8.0 on the Richter scale hit Wenchuan, China. In the aftermath of this natural disaster, Chinese dental professionals actively participated in the first emergency medical response team, definitive dental treatment, oral health services and education, and the recovery of local oral care infrastructure and resources. Learning from the experience and first-hand data of the Wenchuan earthquake, dental professionals can increase their awareness of the importance of collaborative emergency response health services in mass casualty events. Further research and emphasis is needed to encourage the participation of dental professionals in disaster preparation training and practice.
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British dental journal · Jan 2009
Cervicofacial infection of dental origin presenting to maxillofacial surgery units in the United Kingdom: a national audit.
Local studies have shown an increase in cervicofacial infections of dental origin presenting to oral and maxillofacial surgery units in the UK. A lack of access to National Health Service (NHS) primary care dental services has been implicated as a root cause. ⋯ This audit provides a benchmark from which future comparisons can be made and by design cannot prove an increase in the presentation of cervicofacial infection of dental origin. Lack of access to NHS primary care dental services may be less significant than originally thought. A significant proportion of patients preferentially present to primary care medical services rather than dental services. Two thirds of patients treated by primary care dental services received oral antibiotics only which represents an inadequate level of treatment for odontogenic infection.