Abstract
Aim: To compare diagnostic yield in caries diagnosis from D- and E-speed films.
Design: A laboratory study.
Setting: A UK dental school between 1992 and 1994.
Materials and Methods: 96 extracted teeth containing approximal and occlusal lesions, but representing a low caries prevalence sample, were set in occluding dental arches. Bitewing radiographs were taken and interpreted by 5 examiners for the presence or absence of caries. Each examiner was also asked which film image he or she subjectively liked best.
Main Outcome Measures: The teeth were subsequently sectioned and histologically examined to validate diagnostic decisions.
Results: For all film types the percentage of lesions with caries histologically in dentine correctly identified radiologically (sensitivity) was low (approximal caries 8-22%; occlusal caries 0-30%). The number of sound dentine sites correctly identified (specificity) was high (approximal caries 98-100%; occlusal caries 79-100%). There were no significant differences between D- and E-speed films. Sensitivity was unaffected by each examiner's subjective preference for a particular film. The variation in sensitivity of diagnosis was due to differences between examiners.
Conclusions: The reluctance of many GDPs to use E-speed film because they 'do not like the image' cannot be endorsed or supported. Both E-speed film types examined can be recommended for use in general practice
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Ricketts, D., Whaites, E., Kidd, E. et al. An evaluation of the diagnostic yield from bitewing radiographs of small approximal and occlusal carious lesions in a low prevalence sample in vitro using different film types and speeds. Br Dent J 182, 51–58 (1997). https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4809298
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/sj.bdj.4809298
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