IRMER Radiological Justification
Course Description

Benefits and Detriment
Every X-ray exposure must be justified by demonstrating that the benefits to the patient outweigh the potential risks. This section discusses how dental radiographs can aid diagnosis and treatment planning while minimising risks such as genetic damage or cancer. It emphasises that routine or screening X-rays without clinical justification are not acceptable.

The UK Rules
This section explains the UK’s specific regulations for radiological justification, requiring that X-ray exposures lead to a change in the patient’s management. It also covers the roles of the IRMER practitioner and the importance of proper documentation before taking any radiographs.

Case Examples
Look at practical case studies that highlight scenarios in which radiographic justification is or is not appropriate. These examples demonstrate the importance of patient evaluation before taking radiographs, particularly in cases of caries, periodontal disease, and post-operative reviews.

Referral Criteria
This section provides guidelines for dentists when referring patients for radiographic examinations. It emphasises the need for thorough clinical information, allowing the practitioner responsible for the X-ray to make a well-informed justification decision.

Justification for Caries
Learn how to justify radiographs for caries detection, considering factors such as the patient's caries risk, prior radiographs, and the limitations of alternative diagnostic methods. This section looks at the balance between thorough caries detection and minimising radiation exposure.

Assessing Caries Risk
Caries risk is assessed based on various factors, including clinical history, diet, fluoride use, and plaque control. This section provides evidence-based guidelines on how to match bitewing radiograph frequency to caries risk, ensuring appropriate justification for each patient.

Justification for Periodontitis
Radiographs are essential for diagnosing and monitoring periodontitis. This section explains how to choose the appropriate radiographic technique, such as periapical, panoramic, or bitewing views, while balancing diagnostic benefits with radiation exposure.

Justification for Endodontics
This section covers the use of radiographs in root canal treatment, including pre-operative, working length, try-in, and post-operative radiographs. It highlights the very important role of radiographs in every stage of endodontic therapy to ensure treatment success.

Justification for Extractions
Routine radiographs before extractions are not justified unless specific indications are present, such as medical history, suspicion of unusual anatomy, or complex extractions. This section details when a periapical or panoramic radiograph is necessary for extractions.

Justification for Orthodontics
Radiographic justification in orthodontics is very important due to the higher sensitivity of children to radiation. This section looks at the use of panoramic, cephalometric, and CBCT imaging in orthodontic diagnosis and treatment planning, weighing the benefits against the radiation dose.

Justification for Implantology
Radiographs are essential for implant planning and post-operative review. This section discusses the use of periapical, panoramic, and CBCT imaging to assess bone quality, quantity, and anatomical landmarks, ensuring accurate implant placement with minimal radiation exposure.

Course Completion
Participants will complete a feedback survey, take a multiple-choice exam, and receive a GDC-compliant CPD certificate. The course emphasises the importance of applying radiological justification principles to improve patient safety and diagnostic outcomes.