An ex vivo comparison of conventional and digital radiography for perceived image quality of root fillings

Abstract

Aim: To compare the subjective image clarity of two different speed films and the Digora phosphor plate images with respect to the length and homogeneity of root canal fillings.

Methodology: Root canal treatment was performed on 20 extracted permanent mandibular first molar teeth. Standardized images of each tooth positioned in a dried mandible were obtained with E- and F-speed films and Digora storage phosphor plates (SPP) at 0 degrees and 30 degrees horizontal angulations using the optimal exposure time recommended for each system. Five endodontists and five radiologists rated the image clarity of E- and F-speed radiographs as well as the original and enhanced Digora images. The data were compared using the Wilcoxon signed rank test (P < 0.01). Inter-observer agreement was determined by Cohen's kappa.

Results: Enhanced digital images were rated as superior followed by E- and F-speed films and then the original digital images for the evaluation of both homogeneity and length (P < 0.01) of root canal fillings. Agreement among endodontists and radiologists measurements was high in all of the imaging methods (kappa = 0.87).

Conclusion: Perceived image quality of the enhanced Digora images was superior to the original Digora and conventional film images for the evaluation of root fillings. However, E-speed film provided a significantly better image clarity in comparison with F-speed and original Digora images.