Oral and maxillofacial radiology

Oral and maxillofacial radiology, also known as dental and maxillofacial radiology, is that specialty of dentistry concerned with performance and interpretation of diagnostic imaging used for examining the craniofacial, dental and adjacent structures. OMFR or DMFR is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association, Royal College of Dentists of Canada, and Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons. Oral and maxillofacial radiology, also known as dental and maxillofacial radiology, is that specialty of dentistry concerned with performance and interpretation of diagnostic imaging used for examining the craniofacial, dental and adjacent structures. OMFR or DMFR is one of nine dental specialties recognized by the American Dental Association, Royal College of Dentists of Canada, and Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons. Oral and maxillofacial imaging includes cone beam CT, multislice CT, MRI, PET, ultrasound scan, dental panoramic radiology, cephalometric imaging, intra-oral imaging (e.g. Bitewing, peri-apical and occlusal radiographs) in addition to special tests like sialographs. Visible light, optical coherence tomography and tera ray imaging are examples of additional methods in use or under development. Image guidance includes haptic and robotic devices. To become an Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologist (OMFR) one must first complete a dental degree and then apply for and complete a postgraduate course of training (usually between 2–4 years in length). Training includes all aspects of radiation physics, radiation biology, radiation safety, radiologic technique, the patho-physiology of disease and interpretation of diagnostic images. Training includes hospital rotations in Neuroradiology or Head & Neck Radiology Departments using all imaging modalities.