Accuracy of digital panoramic images displayed on monitor, glossy paper, and film for assessment of mandibular third molars

Abstract

Objective The aim of this study was to compare the accuracy of 3 modalities of digital panoramic radiographs—monitor-displayed images and printed copies on glossy paper and on blue transparent film—for assessment of position and morphology of mandibular third molars. Study design 164 third molars were recorded with one of 2 digital panoramic systems (Digora and Orthophos Plus) and assessed by 4 observers on 3 radiographic modalities: monitor display, glossy paper, and transparent film. The assessments were compared with surgeons' findings at the time of the operation (“gold standard”). Results Overall, the observer variation was larger than the variation between methods. A detailed paired analysis revealed some differences between the modalities for some diagnostic categories, but these were few and inconsistent. Conclusion Printed images from the Kodak 1200 ink-jet printer on glossy paper and blue transparent film may be as accurate as the original monitor-displayed digital panoramic images from the Digora and Orthophos Plus systems for assessment of position and morphology of mandibular third molars.