In the realm of dental practice, diagnostics play a pivotal role in identifying and addressing a diverse range of pathologies. With advancements in diagnostic technology, we now have more tools at our disposal than ever before. When a patient is under our care and we assume the role of an examiner, precision, thoroughness, and unwavering focus on any potential anomalies or health concerns are of utmost importance.

My systematic approach to diagnostics aims to empower dentists to deliver the best possible care to their patients. Here are a few ways we can all become more proficient diagnosticians:

• Comprehensive Health Assessment: Begin by thoroughly reviewing all aspects of the patient's health and physiology. Listen attentively and empathetically to their concerns.

• Examine Hard Tissues and Teeth: Assess the condition of hard tissues and teeth for any signs of damage, decay, or abnormalities.

• Evaluate Periodontal Tissues: Examine the health of the patient's gums and supporting structures.

• Oral Head and Neck Tissues: Check for any irregularities or anomalies in the oral and head and neck areas.

• Assess Range of Motion and Chewing Patterns: Observe the patient's range of motion and chewing patterns to identify any issues related to TMJ and TMD, including condyles and head/neck musculature.

• Examine Structural Symmetry and Balance: Look for any signs of structural imbalances or irregularities in the patient's oral cavity and facial structure.

• Evaluate Dental Arch Form and Tooth Arrangement: Ensure that the dental arch form and tooth arrangement are conducive to optimal oral health.

• Consider Airway Structures and Function: Assess the patient's airway structures and function, as these can impact overall health and well-being.

• Address Pain, Acute and Chronic: Investigate any pain, whether acute or chronic, and its potential causes.

• Study Smile Dynamics: Analyze the dynamics of the patient's smile and identify any issues related to appearance or function.

• Detect Damage from Dysfunction or Abnormal Forces: Identify any damage resulting from dysfunction or abnormal forces within the oral cavity.

• Examine Breathing and Sleep Disorders: Investigate the presence of breathing disorders and sleep disorders, which can affect overall health.

• Consider Systemic Diseases, Aging, Complications, and Infection Control: Take into account systemic diseases, the effects of aging, complications, and the importance of infection control.

• Utilize Photography: Document all aspects of the patient's head, neck, mouth, smile, and posture through photography. Review these images in relation to the aforementioned criteria.

• Utilize Radiographic Imaging: Conduct comprehensive radiographic imaging when indicated for a more in-depth analysis.

• Perform Joint Vibration Analysis: Screen for joint issues using Joint Vibration Analysis.

• Assess Forces and Timing with T-Scan: Utilize T-Scan to evaluate forces and their timing within the oral cavity.

• Take Intraoral Scans: Capture intraoral scans of each arch to gain detailed insights into oral health.

• Use Disclosing Solution and Soft Picks: Assess inflammation using disclosing solution and soft picks.

• Evaluate Attachment Loss, Bone Loss, and Tissue Damage: Identify areas of attachment loss, bone loss, and tissue damage.

• Consider Adjunct Testing: Depending on the patient's case, consider any additional tests that may be necessary.

• Conduct a Smile Evaluation: Evaluate the patient's smile, considering both aesthetic and functional aspects.

Now, you might be wondering how to organize and document all this valuable information effectively. The key is to create a system of templates that can be customized for each patient. These templates can be compiled into a patient presentation portfolio, typically in the form of a slide deck (using software like Keynote, PowerPoint, or Google Slides). This portfolio will serve as a comprehensive record, housing all images, test results, and findings for each patient.

These patient portfolios are easily accessible, facilitating seamless patient consultations. Moreover, they can be effortlessly updated with post-treatment photos and follow-up evaluations, ensuring that your diagnostic process remains dynamic and relevant.

Ultimately, adopting a systematic and comprehensive approach to diagnostics not only enhances the quality of care you provide but also streamlines the documentation process. So, why not give it a try and embark on a journey toward becoming an even more proficient diagnostician for the benefit of your patients?