Future applications of electronic thermography

Article Abstract:

The diagnostic uses, clinical applications, and selected technical aspects of computerized electronic thermography (ET) are discussed with particular reference to dental applications. This is a method of imaging the body based on measurement of heat at a superficial level (no deeper than 10 millimeters below the skin's surface); the heat, associated with increased blood flow to the region, is detected with an infrared scanner. ET instruments use computers to develop and evaluate images of the face, yielding data that are potentially useful in diagnosing the causes of toothache, disorders of the jaw joint, and headache, among other conditions. The biological bases for blood flow changes have not been completely characterized, but ET is nonetheless clinically useful for showing physiological (rather than anatomical) abnormalities. With it, clinicians can obtain a heat ''map'' of any facial area; measurements of absolute or average temperatures; or graphical representations of the variations in temperature among regions. Thermography is not used as a sole diagnostic approach, but is considered helpful when other procedures are also used. It has come under criticism in the US, in part because of inappropriate application, aggressive marketing of equipment, and high cost. Reviews are presented of the effectiveness of thermography in diagnosing tooth abscesses (pus-filled infections), disorders of the jaw joint, nerve disorders, and malignancies associated with the face. In most cases, the method has shown some promise, but additional controlled studies are needed. Whether ET can be a significant aid in dentistry remains to be determined. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Usage, Face, Toothache, Medical thermography

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Lateral cephalometric radiographs: an aid in detecting patients at risk of stroke

Article Abstract:

X rays of the head and neck in profile taken for dental purposes may prove useful in identifying adults at risk for stroke. These X rays are sometimes taken in adults seeking orthodontic or other dental treatments. An oral surgeon analyzed 1,063 head-and-neck X rays taken in adults, three-quarters of whom were older than 53. The surgeon found 22 X rays showing calcifications in the carotid artery, a risk factor for stroke. An oral radiologist concurred with the diagnosis in all 22 cases. Care must be taken to distinguish other harmless conditions from carotid artery calcifications.

Evaluation, Diagnosis, Risk factors, Stroke (Disease), Stroke, Arteries, Calcification, Diagnosis, Radioscopic, Radioscopic diagnosis

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Diagnosing and comanaging patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndromes

Article Abstract:

Dentists can help treat patients with obstructive sleep apnea by fitting patients with devices that push the chin out so the tongue no longer blocks the patient's airway. Sleep apnea occurs when people stop breathing temporarily throughout the night.

Sleep apnea syndromes, Sleep apnea

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