Three phosphor plate systems and film compared for imaging root canals

Aim The aim of this study was to compare three phosphor plate intraoral ima ging systems (Digora (DA), Digident (DT), Denoptix (DX)) and E-speed conven tional film (CF) for the imaging of root canals. Methodology Sixty extracted permanent teeth were exposed using CF, DA, DT a nd DX. The length of root canal visible from its most apical extent to a li ne drawn at the level of the cementoenamel junction was measured and this w as expressed as a percentage of the distance between the radiographic apex and the cementoenamel line. All images were examined concurrently by two ex aminers. Films were viewed under standardized conditions and DA, DT and DX images were viewed directly from the monitor screen. The images on the moni tor were enhanced to give the subjectively dearest image. Results The mean percentage of canal visible on CF was 90%, DA 78%, DT 81% and DX 83%. The difference was significant for CF-DA (P < 0.001) and CF-DT (P = 0.001). There was no statistically significant difference for CF-DX or between any of the three phosphor plate imaging systems. Conclusions It is concluded that a greater length of root canal was visible on conventional film than on three phosphor plate imaging systems and that this may be of clinical significance.