Depth of occlusal caries assessed clinically, by conventional film radiographs, and by digitized, processed radiographs

Abstract

Occlusal caries depth was assessed in 47 extracted premolars and permanent molars by 4 observers on a rank scale by eye inspection, by film radiographs, and by 2 of the observers also by digitized radiographs after filtering and contrast enhancement of the image. Quantitative estimates of caries depth were obtained from the digitized radiographs. Accuracy of scorings was determined with the histologic section as validating criterion. Occlusal caries was present in a spectrum from incipient fissure decalcification to large cavity formation. Clinical as well as radiographic scorings most frequently under-estimated lesion depth. Accuracy of radiographic assessments increased substantially by digital processing of the radiographic image. Quantitative measures of caries depth on digitized radiographs were strongly correlated to the histologic measures (r = 0.91). Interobserver agreement was fair to moderate according to kappa coefficients for the clinical and the radiographic scorings. The agreement was highest for the scorings of the digitally enhanced images. The study suggests that digital processing of radiographic images constitutes a diagnostic aid that may give a more accurate estimate of occlusal caries depth.