2026 dental imaging recommendations: what changed
The ADA and AAOMR update patient-selection recommendations for two-dimensional imaging and CBCT.
The update
The ADA reported new joint recommendations on 5 January 2026. They update patient selection for dental radiographic examinations and address both planar imaging and cone-beam computed tomography. This is US professional guidance; Canadian teams must also consult the requirements applicable to their own practice.
Source: ADA News · 5 January 2026
Why it matters to digital dentistry
An imaging workflow begins with a clinical question. Adding a scanner or planning platform should not turn imaging into an automatic administrative step. For a software buyer, the useful question is whether the system supports the clinician’s selected examination and preserves the reason for the request.
Our interpretation for practice teams
Review the full recommendations with the professional responsible for radiology before changing a protocol. In a team discussion, identify who authorizes imaging, how existing images are considered and where examination details are recorded. Ask vendors to demonstrate how their workflow handles a case that is missing a required input without prompting an unnecessary repeat scan.
A closer look
| Focus | What to look at | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical question | Why is an examination being considered? | Keep the clinical rationale distinct from an administrative upload requirement. |
| Existing information | What information is already available? | Ask the responsible clinician how it informs selection. |
| Local requirements | Which rules apply in this practice? | Review Canadian requirements alongside the US recommendations. |
Frequently asked questions
Is this a Canadian regulation?
No. It is US professional guidance. Canadian requirements and the responsible clinician’s assessment still apply.
Should every implant case receive the same scan?
Imaging selection is a clinical decision. This update should not be converted into a universal scan order.
Sources & further reading
Reported facts are attributed above. Sections labelled as our interpretation offer NovaDonto’s editorial perspective. Our editorial approach.
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