Comparison Accuracy Study of E Speed Intraoral Films and Extraoral PSP Digital Panoramic System, for Identifying the Extent of Alveolar Bone Destruction in Anterior Maxillary Region of Periodontitis Patients

Radiographs play an integral role in the assessment of periodontal disease. In recent years, advent of digital imaging has revolutionized radiology in dentistry. The aim of this study was to compare the E speed intra oral films and extra oral digital systems in identifying the extent of alveolar bone loss in anterior maxillary region of periodontitis patients. In this diagnostic accuracy study, 48 inter proximal surfaces were evaluated in eight patients. These patients had alveolar bone loss in anterior regions because of periodontitis. Intraoral (parallel peri-apical) and extra oral (PSP: panoramic-photo-stimulable phosphor) radiography were taken from all the patients. The distance between Cemento-Enamel Junction (CEJ) to the alveolar crest was measured in radiographies. This distance was compared with the surgical distance as gold standard. Accuracy differences between conventional E speed films and digital extra oral system are not statistically significant. All two radiographic modalities in comparison with surgical gold standard have significant difference and both underestimate the extent of bone loss. According to this study, accuracy of two imaging systems in assessment of alveolar crest bone loss level is nearly equal. Digital panoramic instead of intraoral film-based radiography can be used in periodontitis patients.