Ultrasonography as a Definitive Diagnostic Tool Soft Tissue Imaging in Dentistry - A Review

Abstract

Ultrasonography is increasingly recognized as a safe, non-invasive, and dynamic imaging modality in dentistry, utilizing high-frequency sound waves to visualize soft tissues, vascular structures, and pathological lesions in real time. Its applications span diagnostic, therapeutic, and surgical domains, including evaluation of salivary glands, tongue, palate, periodontal structures, periapical lesions, TMJ disorders, implant planning, and oral and maxillofacial masses. Ultrasound-guided interventions enhance precision in procedures such as cyst aspiration, nerve blocks, implant placement, and biopsies, while Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound (LIPUS) supports bone regeneration and tissue healing. Advantages include radiation-free imaging, portability, cost-effectiveness, and excellent soft tissue differentiation, with Doppler modes enabling vascular assessment. Limitations involve operator dependence, restricted bone penetration, and limited availability of dental-specific intraoral probes. Future trends emphasize high-frequency, 3D imaging, elastography, contrast enhancement, AI integration, and workflow digitalization, positioning ultrasonography as a complementary tool alongside conventional radiography and CBCT for modern, precision-driven dental practice.

Introduction

The study investigates the concept of employee engagement and its impact on organizational performance. Employee engagement is defined as the emotional and intellectual commitment employees have toward their work and organization, which leads to higher productivity, motivation, loyalty, and alignment with organizational goals. The research emphasizes the importance of positive work culture, effective communication, leadership support, and growth opportunities in enhancing engagement.

The study aims to:

1. Identify factors influencing employee engagement.

2. Examine its effect on organizational performance.

3. Explore the role of leadership in promoting engagement.

The literature review highlights that engaged employees show higher creativity, resilience, and discretionary effort, and that leadership and communication significantly influence engagement levels.

A descriptive research design was employed, using surveys among 138 employees of Ucal Polymer Industries Limited. Statistical tools such as Pearson correlation and Chi-square tests were used to analyze relationships between variables like feedback satisfaction, performance-based promotion, communication, and participation in training. Results indicated no significant correlation between feedback satisfaction and promotion satisfaction, and no significant association between communication clarity and training participation, with some limitations in data reliability.

Key findings:

• Majority of respondents were young (18–30 years) and male.

• A significant portion (79.71%) felt insecure in their job positions.

• Over half of employees were dissatisfied with performance feedback.

Suggestions:

• Improve transparency in communication from leadership.

• Link team-building activities to organizational objectives.

• Facilitate internal career growth opportunities.

Conclusion

Ultrasound in dentistry is emerging as a safe, versatile, and dynamic imaging tool that complements traditional radiography and advanced modalities. It enables real-time, radiation-free assessment of soft tissues, lesions, and vascularity. To fully harness its potential, standardized protocols, dedicated intraoral probes, and comprehensive operator training are essential. Continued device innovation and integration with digital workflows will expand its clinical and research applications.

References

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Copyright

Copyright © 2025 Dr. K. Palanivel , Dr. Priya Ramani , Dr. Janani T, Dr. Indhumathi S, Dr. Hema Rithika M, Dr. P. S. Gayathri. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.