Full Title: Radiographic Identification of Gold Threading: A clinical case report

Authors: Annette K. Stelter, RDH, EdD

JDH Issue: October 2026

Program Track: Research

Abstract: Dental hygienists play a crucial role in oral health care through the acquisition and interpretation of radiographs. Certain cosmetic facial procedures involving metallic materials may be visible on dental radiographs. These materials may obscure anatomical structures and complicate interpretation, which is essential for dental procedure treatment planning. The dental hygienist needs to be able to differentiate these artifacts from pathological conditions. This case study describes a 28-year-old female patient with intraoral and extraoral radiographs demonstrating thread-like radiopacities consistent with gold threading. This report highlights the radiographic characteristics of gold threading, outlines clinical implications, and emphasizes the importance of professional awareness of cosmetic facial procedures that may influence radiographic image interpretation and complicate accurate dental hygiene care planning.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the characteristic radiographic appearance and distribution of cosmetic gold threading.
• Differentiate gold-thread artifacts from pathological calcifications, anatomical variations, and other radiopaque findings.
• Apply appropriate history-taking, documentation, patient education, and referral considerations when gold threading is identified.

CE Credit Hours: 2.0

The American Dental Hygienists' Association is designated as an approved provider by the American Academy of Dental Hygiene, Inc. #AADHADH (Jan. 1, 2026–Dec. 31, 2026). Approval does not imply acceptance by a state or provincial Board of Dentistry. Licensee should maintain this document in the event of an audit.

The American Dental Hygienists’ Association is an approved provider of dental continuing education as recognized by the Dental Board of California, Provider #5238.