Mobile Dental Radiology—Evaluation of Quality Requirements for Radiographs Applying Handheld Mobile Radiography

Background Radiography is required in domiciliary dentistry in order to ensure accurate diagnosis, but the available devices have not yet been approved due to a lack of research regarding the quality of single tooth radiography. Aim To examine dental radiographs taken using the mobile X‐ray device (Nomad Pro 2, Envista, Brea, CA) with regard to their quality, examinability and their benefit for treatment planning in mobile dentistry. Methods The image quality of radiographs using a mobile handheld X‐ray system was assessed. The quality criteria catalogue of the German Dental Association was applied. Results Of 127 dental radiographs, 80% (101) showed no quality defects. Diagnosis‐relevant quality defects were found in 17% (21). 61% (78) of radiographs had clinically relevant secondary findings that had an influence on further dental treatment and on the prognosis of the teeth. Conclusions Dental care in nursing homes presents significant challenges, particularly regarding oral preventive medicine. Surgical procedures are legally contestable without dental radiology, and this raises professional and ethical concerns. Mobile dental radiology is an important component of treatment in mobile dentistry. Unexpected findings such as apical osteolysis or root remnants can only be identified and treated by means of radiography.