Value of bitewings in managing carious primary molars: version 1
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Value of bitewing radiographs in management of carious primary molars
IRAS ID
231470
Contact name
Alex Keightley
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Edinburgh
Duration of Study in the UK
0 years, 6 months, 1 days
Research summary
Tooth decay is a common problem found in children and can have multiple effects on a child’s quality of life. Recent epidemiological studies have reported a decrease in the number of decayed teeth. However, in these studies, caries is only scored at the D3 level (obvious visible decay). It is acknowledged that some teeth will have decay which is not visible at this level, therefore leading to under reporting in the epidemiological studies. It is also acknowledged that the use of routine radiographs to diagnose caries is under utilised in general dental practice with respect to children resulting in a delay in diagnosis and larger areas of decay. Unfortunately, the more progressed the decay is into the tooth the less likely the tooth can be saved. This has implications for the child in addition to an impact on NHS resources (professional and financial). In our study we are looking into the use of dental radiographs to aid the diagnosis of these clinically undetected decayed teeth, with a view to quantifying the prevalence of undetected decayed teeth. The sample size will include 30 children between the age of 3-12 years who will attend the New Patient Clinic at the Paediatric Dental Department, Edinburgh Dental Institute. The study will last for six months. Participants will undergo routine New Patient assessment at the clinic and have bitewing radiographs (x-rays) taken as part of their routine examination. An additional calibrated visual examination of teeth will be performed and if required, cleaning of teeth and intra-oral photographs will be taken.
REC name
North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NW/0108
Date of REC Opinion
13 Mar 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion