Clinical Significance of Carotid Artery Calcification seen on Panoramic Radiographs

Abstract

Among patients who visited our hospital with a chief complaint of disorders involving the oromandibular region, with suspected carotid artery calcification based on panoramic radiography, and who underwent computed tomography for a detailed examination of these disorders, there were four patients in whom a definitive diagnosis of carotid artery calcification was made. We herein provide an overview of these cases, along with a brief review of the relevant literature. When imaging findings suggestive of carotid artery calcification are obtained on panoramic radiographs, dentists can request detailed examinations and treatment at specialized medical institutions in the early stage by providing patients with information about the risks of atherosclerotic diseases. Early detection and treatment may reduce the severity or risks of complications and damage caused by atherosclerotic diseases, as well as possibly contributing to improved quality of life. In this study, we evaluated carotid artery calcification visible on panoramic radiographs. However, it seems that further detailed analysis is needed to examine the association between carotid artery calcification and a past history of risk factors for arteriosclerosis.