Ultrasound imaging in dentistry: A literature overview

Abstract

(1) Background: the frequency with which diagnostic tests are prescribed with exposure to ionizing radiation, a cause of biological damage, has been studied, and with much more attention, patients are subjected to these diagnostic tests for diagnosis and follow-up. This review aimed, given the recent developments of this technology, to evaluate the possible use of ultrasound in different branches of dentistry. The possibility of applying ionizing-radiation-free diagnostic exams in dentistry, overcoming the limits of this application, has led scientific research in this area to obtain interesting results that bode well for the future. (2) Methods: a search for articles on the application of ultrasounds in dentistry was performed using the PubMed electronic database. (3) Results: only 32 studies were included, and these clearly stated that this examination is widely usable and in great progress. (4) Conclusions: regarding the modern application techniques of this diagnostic test, it is essential to consider technological evolution as an objective to reduce the damage and side effects of necessary diagnostic tests. The use of ultrasound in dentistry can represent a valid radiation-free alternative, in certain contexts, to the other most used exams.