Dental radiography - importance of selection criteria

Abstract

After explaining the treatment plan to a new patient I was requested by her to provide clarity, regarding the various types and numbers of the radiographs that I had suggested. She said that she was very concerned about exposure to X-rays and could I not limit the number of radiographs I needed to make a diagnosis and carry out her treatment? While it is important to discuss the diagnostic requirements with my patients, I feel I may be ethically comprised by making a less than optimal diagnosis of oral health conditions, by limiting the diagnostic investigations I perform.