GIs Need Panoramic X-Rays for Diagnostic, Forensic Purposes

In dental imaging, the panoramic radiograph is commonly prescribed because it contains a lot of information and can reveal many interesting conditions. I had a 21-year career with the United States Army Dental Corps, and I now serve as professor and chair for the Department of Pathology and Medicine at the University of the Pacific Dental School. During my time in the military, all entering military GIs were required to have a panoramic radiograph in their record. This was done for expediency purposes as well as for forensic purposes, should the need arise.  Vietnam Era & Panoramic X-Rays: I served in the military during the Vietnam era when large numbers of individuals were being inducted into the military. At that time, it was required that each GI must have this type of radiograph in their record. The panoramic radiograph was quick and easy to perform at induction centers and was also necessary for personal identification in case that would ever be needed. As inductees wo more...