A comparison of six intra-oral X-ray films.

Abstract

To compare objectively and subjectively national-brand dental X-ray films with widely available and less costly brands. A range of dental films, including the recently released Kodak Ektaspeed Plus, was purchased from mail-order suppliers at the lowest published price. Objective measurements (film speed, contrast, fog levels, costs, physical characteristics) and subjective evaluations (ease of use, film graininess, overall appearance) were made. Private-label films were obtained at less cost than those of major vendors. Not all film speeds, sizes and wrapping materials were available from individual manufacturers. Objective measures and subjective appraisals showed that Ektaspeed Plus was the fastest film and had good contrast with the clinically useful density ranges. Agfa Dentus was the next fastest film, but it had rather low contrast and was grainier than the other films. The non-proprietary brands were difficult to open with primary glove barriers, making effective infection control practices arduous. All films were relatively stable over a 16-week period regardless of storage location. The major manufacturers offered more choices of film sizes and speeds than did private label suppliers. The films from the major manufacturers, although more expensive, were more conducive to effective infection control practices. Ektaspeed Plus had a performance comparable with or better than the other available films. Based on this preliminary study, it is recommended that this new film is considered as an alternative to D-speed films.