title: Interpretation of base-metal dentinal radiopacities: survey results.
abstract: A survey was conducted to determine the familiarity with base metal dentinal radiopacity. The results show that although 91% of the respondents had observed this phenomenon, only 6% could correctly identify its cause. Despite the general misunderstanding concerning its cause, 48% of the respondents considered this radiopacity when making a diagnosis and providing treatment. To limit confusion, a standard term is suggested so this feature can be more consistently identified and properly considered in making diagnoses and in formulating treatment plans.
authors.affiliation: School of Dentistry, Medical College of Georgia, Augusta 30912.
authors.forename: M K
authors.initials: MK
authors.lastname: Shrout
authors.forename: C F
authors.initials: CF
authors.lastname: Hildebolt
mesh_terms: D003723:Dental Amalgam / Q000009:adverse effects*; D003731:Dental Caries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D011859:Radiography; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D014001:Tin; D014075:Tooth Discoloration / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D015032:Zinc
chemical_list: D014001:Tin; D003723:Dental Amalgam; D015032:Zinc