INTRAORAL ULTRASONOGRAPHY FOR PERIODONTAL TISSUE EXPLORATION: WHAT IS REVIEW TALKING ABOUT TODAY?

Abstract

Abstract. Introduction. This systematic review aims to investigate the capabilities of ultrasound imaging in periodontal tissues exploration to visualize periodontal anatomical structures and to assess reliability in clinical evaluation using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. Aim of the study is to investigate the capabilities of ultrasound imaging in periodontal tissue research. Material and Methods. Databases, i. e., MEDLINE, PUBMED, MEDINNOVATION, and SCIENTIST were analyzed electronically to identify studies that have explored ultrasonography periodontal imaging, published within the timeframe from 2000 to March 2022. Results and Discussion. Our search delivered 245 records; upon making exclusions, a total of 15 papers was included in the present review. Various publications have shown the possibility of using intraoral ultrasound for a precise exploration of intraoral tissues and to perform measurements of periodontal structures. Studies argue that ultrasounds offer a prospect of the complete paradigm shift regarding the diagnosis and follow-up of periodontal diseases. However, there is currently no devoted clinical devices for periodontal ultrasound scanning. Conclusion. This anatomic region is still under-studied, and studies are needed to explore the large field of applications from periodontal assessment to reassessment of treatment, including surgery.