I-2 Diagnosing Oral Pathosis – What to Look for on Imaging and When to Refer

4.5 (2 votes)


CE: 1.5

Periapical cysts and periapical granulomas comprise the vast majority of radiolucent lesions that concern the endodontist. However, radiographic examination can also result in findings that mimic conventional radiolucent lesions. These conditions range in clinical significance from variations of normal to significant pathology or malignancy. This session will provide a case-based overview using 2-D periapical imaging and cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) to illustrate common radiographic changes that could be misdiagnosed and result in unnecessary treatment. Additionally, radiographic features of both odontogenic and non-odontogenic conditions that can resemble routine periapical pathology will be featured to help clinicians develop a differential diagnosis that will determine if endodontic treatment is appropriate or if referral is indicated.

At the conclusion, participants should be able to:

  • Develop a comprehensive radiographic differential diagnosis based on clinical and radiographic findings.
  • List radiographic features that suggest a non-inflammatory etiology using both periapical images and CBCT.
  • Determine when to refer and which dental or medical specialist is most appropriate to facilitate further diagnosis and treatment.
Components visible upon registration.

David J. Landwehr, D.D.S., M.S.

As a leading practitioner and educator, Dr. David J. Landwehr, D.D.S., M.S., serves as a frequent teacher at dozens of events each year focusing on endodontics and oral pathology. A Wisconsin native, Dr. Landwehr studied as an undergraduate at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and went on to earn his D.D.S. at the University of Minnesota in 1994. From there, he earned an M.S. degree and certificate in oral and maxillofacial pathology at The Ohio State University followed by specialty training in endodontics at the University of Michigan. Since returning to Wisconsin in 1999, Dr. Landwehr has provided exemplary care to patients and currently maintains a full-time private practice at Capital Endodontics in Madison. He has presented case studies both nationally and internationally, published research findings in peer-reviewed journals, served as an evidence reviewer for the American Dental Association and was the chief of endodontics for the Meriter Hospital general practice residency for 12 years. Dr. Landwehr lectures on many endodontic topics but has a specific interest in endodontic diagnosis and instrumentation of the root canal system.

Laurence Gaalaas, D.D.S., M.S.

Dr. Gaalaas received his dental degree from the University of Minnesota and completed specialty training and a Master of Science degree in oral and maxillofacial radiology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. As a researcher and inventor, his expertise includes clinical applications of cone beam computed tomography, caries detection and diagnosis, and development of novel imaging techniques specific to dentistry such as low dose 3D intraoral radiography and dental MRI. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, a member of the American Academy of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, and has ongoing teaching responsibilities plus an active radiology practice through the University of Minnesota and RAYUS Radiology.

Speaker Disclosure 

I declare that I have no proprietary, financial, or other personal interest of any nature or kind in any product, service, course, and/or company, or in any firm beneficially associated therewith, that will be discussed or considered during the proposed presentation.

David J. Landwehr, D.D.S., M.S.

I declare that I have proprietary, financial, or other personal interest of any nature or kind in any product, service, course, and/or company, or in any firm beneficially associated therewith, that will be discussed or considered during the proposed presentation.DENTSPLY SIRONA Endodontics (Self) : Honorarium (Status: Ongoing)

Laurence Gaalaas, D.D.S., M.S.

I declare that I have proprietary, financial, or other personal interest of any nature or kind in any product, service, course, and/or company, or in any firm beneficially associated therewith, that will be discussed or considered during the proposed presentation.XinVivo, Inc. (Self) : Consultant (Status: Ongoing)