Salivary Diagnostics
Salivary diagnostics uses saliva to detect biomarkers for oral and systemic disease — a non-invasive tool reshaping precision dental care.
Category: Dental Imaging & Diagnostics
Dental imaging and diagnostics is where clinical findings become measurable. This section of the Rebrief Dental Glossary defines the imaging modalities, diagnostic tests, and assessment frameworks that drive treatment decisions. Imaging entries cover the full spectrum: bitewing, periapical, panoramic, and cephalometric x-rays; CBCT (cone-beam computed tomography) for 3D volumes; intraoral scanning for digital impressions; and the DICOM standards that move images between systems. Diagnostic entries cover the clinical examination itself (periodontal exam, cold sensitivity test, percussion testing, tooth vitality assessment), risk-assessment tools (caries risk evaluation, bite force analysis), and the AI-assisted diagnostic tools increasingly built into modern practices. We also cover the radiation-safety vocabulary (ALARA, scatter radiation) that every operator working with x-rays needs to know. Each entry explains what the test or modality measures, when it’s indicated, what findings it produces, and how those findings feed into the diagnoses defined in the conditions section and the treatments defined in the procedures section. Whether you’re studying for boards, training a new assistant on imaging protocols, or explaining a finding to a patient, this is a fast reference for the diagnostic terminology in modern dental practice.
Radiolucency
Radiolucency on dental X-rays appears dark where tissue density is low. Learn what causes these findings — from caries to cysts — and why they matter.
Plaque Index Score
Plaque Index Score measures dental plaque on a 0–3 scale, helping clinicians assess oral hygiene and detect early periodontal disease risk.
Saliva Buffering Capacity
Saliva buffering capacity measures how well saliva neutralizes oral acids. Learn why it matters for caries risk, enamel protection, and diagnostic care.
Radiopacity
Radiopacity is the property that makes dental tissues appear bright white on X-rays. Discover how it aids diagnosis and what structures are most radiopaque.
Periodontal Charting
Periodontal charting records pocket depths, attachment levels, and bone support around each tooth — essential for diagnosing and monitoring gum disease.
Radiopaque
Radiopaque structures appear bright white on dental X-rays. Discover what causes radiopacity, which materials are affected, and its clinical significance.
Radiolucent
Radiolucent areas appear dark on dental X-rays, signaling normal anatomy or pathology like decay, infection, and cysts. Learn what clinicians look for.
Predictive Dental Analytics
Predictive dental analytics applies AI and machine learning to patient data to forecast oral disease risk and treatment outcomes, enabling proactive, precision dental care.
Jaw Movement Analysis
Jaw Movement Analysis records mandibular motion patterns to diagnose TMJ disorders, bruxism, and occlusal problems, supporting precise treatment planning.