A Radiologist’s Guide to Teeth: An Imaging Review of Dental Anatomy, Nomenclature, Trauma, Infection, and Tumors

Abstract

The teeth are a common site for infection, trauma, tumors, and tumorlike lesions. Because the teeth are frequently included in the field of view of imaging studies, radiologists can serve an important role in the identification, diagnosis, and, ultimately, the management of dental disease. This requires a level of familiarity with a wide range of diseases typical to the teeth and their supporting structures. This article provides a framework for radiologists in the approach to dental disease. Dental anatomy, development, and nomenclature are first discussed to serve as a foundation. This is followed by a review of typical trauma patterns and the pathophysiology and imaging features of dental infections, including their complications and management. Also, a structured approach to the imaging of tumor and tumorlike entities associated with dentition is outlined.Learning Objectives: Review dental anatomy, nomenclature, and development, and discuss diseases of the teeth and their surrounding structures, including their imaging findings.