Considerations in Detecting Soft Tissue Calcifications on Panoramic Radiography

Head and neck soft tissues calcifications can result from physiological or pathological mineralization. Some of these calcifications may be found on panoramic radiography because of their proximity to the focal trough and their superimposition over hard and soft tissue structures. Such radiographic images are common and create a diagnostic challenge. Differentiation of these entities can be done when radiographic features and locations are taken into consideration. Since cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) has been used in dentistry, fortuitous discovery of such calcifications has increased. However, by providing images in the third dimension, CBCT facilitates their precise localization. Adequate diagnosis of these calcifications may enhance their approach and management by clinicians. The aim of this article is to describe the radiographic characteristics of some head and neck calcifications in dental practice on panoramic X-rays and CBCT.