If an agency finds all 32 permanent teeth present with no restorations, what should they enter in the DCH field?

When an agency finds all 32 permanent teeth are present with no restorations, it is appropriate to enter "ALL" in the DCH field. This indicates that every single permanent tooth, from the central incisors to the molars, is accounted for and in a natural, unrestored state.

This choice reflects a complete and comprehensive assessment of the dental status, which is essential in forensic and identification scenarios. Providing a clear designation like "ALL" enhances the clarity of the dental records, ensuring that there is no ambiguity regarding the presence or absence of teeth. It indicates not only their presence but also their condition, which can be critical for identification purposes in various situations.

Other terms such as "NONE," "PRESENT," or "COMPLETE" do not convey the same level of specificity or comprehensive understanding of the dental condition as "ALL" does. "NONE" suggests no teeth are present, while "PRESENT" could be misinterpreted without context, and "COMPLETE," although it implies all teeth are there, does not specifically denote the number and condition of the teeth. Therefore, using "ALL" accurately captures the findings and meets the reporting standards in the DCH field.