Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology

Thailand is currently experiencing rapid economic development, leading to improved knowledge and economic status among the population. This has increased the interest in oral health care of the general public, and thus the need for better, high-standard public dental treatment services. Currently, there are only 1,800 specialized dentists in Thailand, while our population is approximately 70,000,000, resulting in a ratio of 1:39,000, indicating a significant shortage of specialized dentists. Therefore, it is essential to produce more specialized dentists with enhanced knowledge, competency, and specialized skills.

Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology is one of the specialized branches of dentistry that focuses on the use of X-ray imaging. This includes techniques for radiography in the oral cavity, extraoral radiography, and cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Additionally, it encompasses other advanced imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasonography.

Images of patients generated through the above-mentioned processes significantly aid in diagnosing diseases in the head and face region. These include common conditions such as dental caries and periodontal diseases, as well as lesions and tumors in the maxillofacial bones, which may not be visible during a clinical examination. They also provide crucial information for planning treatments such as maxillofacial surgeries, dental implantations, and complex root canal treatments.