Simulation of three intraoral radiographic techniques in pediatric dental patients: subjective comfort assessment using the VAS and Wong-Baker FACES Pain Raiting Scale.

BACKGROUND: Perception of pain associated with intraoral radiography in pediatric patients was evaluated through statistical comparisons of data obtained using the Wong-Baker FACES Pain Raiting Scale (WBFPRS) and visual analog scale (VAS) scoring. METHODS: A total of 75 pediatric patients aged 6-12 years were included in this study. Simulations of each of three radiological methods (analog films, CCD sensor and phosphorus plates) were performed on 25 pediatric patients. Following the simulations, the meaning of each facial expression on the WBFPRS and the numbers on the VAS were explained to each child. For the comparison between groups, the homogeneity of the variances was tested with Levene's test; because the variances were not homogeneous, Welch's test was used. Tamhane's T2 test was used because the homogeneity assumption was not provided to determine the source of the difference between the groups. RESULTS: When the conventional method was compared to the PSPL (photostimulable phosphor luminescence) method, no significant differences were noted in either the WBFPRS or VAS results (p >0.05). The results obtained from both of the scales were significantly different between the conventional method and the CCD sensor method (p < 0.05). When the PSPL and CCD sensors were compared, a significant difference was observed for the WBFPRS (p < 0.05). It was found the highest level of pain scores when used the CCD sensor method than the analog film and PSPL methods (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: It is expected that digital radiographic techniques will be improved in the future and that their disadvantages will be eliminated, resulting in imaging devices that are more comfortable for pediatric patients.

Influência do tipo de compósito e tempo de exposição aos raios-x na produção de artefatos radiográficos em modelos de restauração classe II / Influence of the type of composite and time of exposure to x-rays on the production of radiographic artifacts in class II restoration models

Objetivo: Avaliar o efeito do tempo de exposição e do tipo de compósito na produção de artefato radiográfico na interface dente/material restaurador. Materiais e Métodos: Em 20 incisivos bovinos hígidos foram feitos preparos cavitários e restaurações classe II utilizando resinas compostas Filtek Bulk Fill One (gruo 1) e a Filtek Z350 (grupo 2). Em seguida, os dentes foram expostos para obtenção das radiografias digitais, variando o tempo de exposição em 0,07, 0,10, 0,14, 0,20 e 0,25s. As imagens foram avaliadas para investigação da presença de artefato através da análise do número de pixels modificado (QPXD) e do valor médio de cinza nas restaurações de classe II (MGVR), utilizando o software Image J (Instituto Nacional de Saúde, Bethesda, MD, EUA). Resultados: Observou-se a presença de artefato em toda amostra avaliada, independente de tipo de material restaurador e tempo de exposição empregado. Não se observou diferença estatisticamente significante na QPXD e nos MGVR entre as resinas utilizadas (ANOVA 2 fatores, p p>0,05). A análise do MGVR indicou que não houve diferenças estatisticamente significativas entre as resinas nem entre os tempos de exposição (p>0,05). Observou-se uma correlação entre a QPXD e o MGVR (r=0,29) para a resina Filtek Bulk Fill One. Conclusão: Foi identificado a presença de pixels alterados sobre a dentina na região da interface dente-restauração em todos os corpos de prova. A variação do tempo de exposição como também o tipo do compósito restaurador não influenciou no aumento ou diminuição do QPXD e nem tão pouco no MGVR. Contudo houve correlação entre o QPXD e o MGVR para a resina Filtek Bulk Fill One. Pesquisas adicionais são necessárias para determinar se o QPXD representa um artefato verdadeiro ou desajuste do material restaurador ou deficiência na aplicação sistema adesivo (AU).

Objective: To evaluate the effect of the exposure time and the type of composite in the production of radiographic artifact at the tooth / restorative interface. Materials and Methods: In 20 healthy bovine incisors, cavity preparations and class II restorations were made using composite resins Filtek Bulk Fill One (group 1) and Filtek Z350 (group 2). Then, the teeth were exposed to obtain digital radiographs, varying the exposure time by 0.07, 0.10, 0.14, 0.20 and 0.25s. The images were evaluated for investigation of the presence of artifact through the analysis of the modified number of pixels (QPXD) and the average gray value in class II (MGVR) restorations, using the Image J software (National Health Institute). Results: The presence of artifact was observed in all evaluated samples, regardless of the type of restorative material and the exposure time employed. There was no statistically significant difference in QPXD and MGVR between the resins used (ANOVA 2 factors, p p> 0.05). The MGVR analysis indicated that there were no statistically significant differences between resins or between exposure times (p> 0.05). There was a correlation between QPXD and MGVR (r = 0.29) for Filtek Bulk Fill One resin. Conclusion: The presence of altered pixels on dentin in the region of the tooth-restoration interface was identified in all specimens. The variation in the exposure time as well as the type of the restorative composite did not influence the increase or decrease of QPXD and neither in MGVR. However, there was a correlation between QPXD and MGVR for Filtek Bulk Fill One resin. Further research is needed to determine whether QPXD represents a true artifact or misfit of the restorative material or deficiency in the adhesive system application (AU).

Effectiveness of Two Types of Photostimulable Phosphor Plate Plastic Barrier Envelopes for Prevention of Microbiological Contamination

Abstract Objective: To compare the effectiveness of two types of commercially available photostimulable phosphor plate (PSP) protective barrier envelopes to prevent microbiological contamination. Material and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, 80 barrier envelopes were tested in 40 volunteers. The PSP plates were placed individually in Asia Teb and Soredex protective barrier envelopes and were placed in the mouth for two minutes, similar to periapical films. The protective barrier envelopes were then removed under sterile conditions, and the sensors were placed on different culture media. The number of colonies on each plate was counted. Data were analyzed using SPSS via McNemar and Wilcoxon tests. Results: Bacterial growth was noted in 17.5% of PSPs with Soredex, and 32.5% of PSPs with Asia Teb barrier envelopes. Gram-positive bacilli were the most commonly isolated bacteria. The difference between the Asia Teb and Soredex barrier envelopes for the protection of microbiological contamination was not significant (p>0.05). Conclusion: The use of different types of protective barrier envelopes was not sufficient for prevention of microbiological contamination of PSP plates, and some adjunct modalities were required to decrease microbiological contamination of PSP plates.

Use of Mini-Implant Anchorage For Second Molar Mesialization: Comprehensive Approach For Treatment Efficiency Analysis

Abstract Objective: To approbate the complex approach for assessment of second molar mesialization outcomes with the use of orthodontic mini-implants. Material and Methods: The sample consisted of 62 patients, divided into study (n=32) and control group (n=30). Mesialization procedure in the study group was conducted with the use of braces system and orthodontic mini-implants as additional anchorage devices, while in control group mesialization was provided only with the use of the brace system. Dynamic registration of bone level changes and the entire range of tooth movement were carried out on digital orthopantomograms obtained with the use of Planmeca ProMax 2D. Results: Findings of orthopantomographic (OPG) analysis have shown that cases of second molar mesialization with the use of mini-implants as temporary anchorage characterized with more stable conditions of bone levels around displaced teeth compare to cases, where mesialization was provided only with the use of braces systems without any additional anchorage. The terms of treatment in the study group with the use of dental mini-implants as the anchorage was reduced by 8.8 ± 0.12 months compared to the control group (p<0.05). Conclusion: The use of orthodontic mini-implants as anchorage constructions during the mesialization of the mandibular second molars contributes to the reduction of treatment duration and support the more prognostic movement of teeth, that does not provoke significant pathological changes in the levels of the surrounded alveolar ridge and minimize the risk of associated periodontal complication occurrence.

Distortion and magnification of four digital cephalometric units.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the validity of using the calibration ruler for correcting magnification of linear measurements and to explore and compare the vertical and horizontal magnification of four digital cephalometric units. METHODS: An acrylic box was imaged at seven sagittal positions using four digital cephalometric units: Orthopantomograph OC100, Orthopantomograph OC200, Sirona Orthophos CD, and Sirona Orthophos DS. The true linear lengths of the phantom, corrected, and uncorrected linear lengths on the images were measured and compared. The validity of measurements using the calibration ruler was assessed. The magnification values and distortion indices were calculated and compared among the four cephalometric units. RESULTS: For linear measurements on the mid-sagittal plane and averaged linear measurements on bilateral symmetric sagittal planes, the bias 1.96 STD of the calibration ruler ranged from 1% to 2% for the four cephalometric testing units. For linear measurements on the single lateral sagittal plane, the bias 1.96 STD ranged from 3% to 6%. The vertical scanning charge-coupled device cephalometric unit produced the greatest distortion, ranging from 1.029 to 0.964. CONCLUSION: The metal millimeter calibration ruler is an accurate reference for linear measurement magnification correction. Because of unpredictability and machine specificity, the magnification and distortion of a cephalometric unit should be calibrated for the estimation of cephalometric measurement error.

Comparison of Efficiency and Image Quality of Photostimulable Phosphor Plate and Charge-Coupled Device Receptors in Dental Radiography.

The photostimulable phosphor (PSP) plate and charge-coupled device (CCD) are receptors commonly used for intraoral radiography in U.S. dental schools. However, it is unclear which receptor is more beneficial for radiology education and patient care in an academic setting. The aim of this study was to compare the time efficiency, image quality, and operator performance for student-operated PSP plate and CCD receptors. At one U.S. dental school in 2018, 20 dental hygiene and dental students (n=10 each) were recruited as operators. They each exposed anterior and posterior periapical and bitewing radiographs on dental radiograph teaching and training replica using the PSP plate and CCD as receptors. The time taken to expose the radiographs was recorded. Image sharpness/definition, brightness/contrast, and technical errors, including placement, angulation, and cone cut errors, were evaluated on a three-point scale with 0=non-diagnostic, 1=diagnostic acceptable with minor errors, and 2=perfect diagnostic quality. The results showed that it was generally faster for the students to expose intraoral radiographs with CCDs than with PSP plates, although the difference was not significant (p>0.05). Image quality and technical accuracy, especially angulation, were significantly superior for PSP relative to CCD (p<0.05). This study found that PSP imaging was of higher quality and accuracy than CCD, whereas CCD was more efficient. Dental and dental hygiene students would benefit from being trained on both receptors to be able to adapt to a diversified workplace.

Comparison of the Accuracy of Digital Radiography with Conventional Radiography and Visual Examination in the Detection of Permanent Teeth Interproximal Caries

Objective: To compared the accuracy of digital radiography in the diagnosis of interproximal caries in permanent teeth with conventional radiography and visual examination. Material and Methods: In this descriptive-analytical study, 78 human premolars, which seem normal in primary examination, are mounted on the plaster in a pair-wise manner and their caries are visually evaluated. Conventional and digital radiographic images are taken under the same conditions and their caries are graded with Confidence Score. To determine the golden standard, after mesiodistal incision, the teeth are examined using stereomicroscopy. Finally, the results obtained by visual observation and conventional radiography as well as digital images were compared with those obtained from the stereomicroscopy to determine their accuracy in detecting the interproximal caries. Results: The consistencies between the visual, digital, and conventional methods with the standard method (microscopic histology) are 53%, 78%, and 50% respectively - all of them are significant (p<0.05). The highest and the lowest sensitivities are related to the digital (96%) and visual (88%) methods respectively, while the highest and lowest specificities are related to the digital (79%) and conventional (50%) methods respectively. The highest and lowest positive predictive value is related to the digital (79%) and conventional (80%) methods respectively. The highest and lowest negative predictive values are related to the digital (90%) and visual (71%) methods respectively. Compared with the standard methodology, the most accurate diagnostic accuracy can be seen for the digital method (91%). Conclusion: There is no significant difference in the diagnosis of interproximal caries by different methods, and the only advantage of digital radiography, compared with the conventional one, is storing radiographs without losing important information and the lower dose of radiation for the patient.

Avaliação in vitro da influência de cimentos endodônticos na resistência de união sobre estrutura dentinária da câmara pulpar de dentes restaurados imediatamente e mediatamente após obturação / In vitro evaluation of the influence of endodontic cements on bond strength on the dentin structure of the pulp chamber of teeth restored immediately and immediately after filling

Este estudo teve por finalidade avaliar a influência dos cimentos endodônticos com um protocolo de irrigação na resistência de união sobre a estrutura dentinária das paredes da câmara pulpar de dentes bovinos restaurados imediatamente e após 7 dias do tratamento endodôntico. Foram avaliados os cimentos endodônticos: Cimento à base de resina epoxy (AH Plus ­ Dentsply, DeTrey, Konstanz- Alemanha) e Cimento de óxido de zinco e eugenol (Endofill ­ Dentsply Ind.com. LTDA ­ Brasil). Para a realização das restaurações foi utilizado o sistema adesivo Single Bond 2® (3M/ESPE) e a resina composta Z 350TM (3M/ESPE). 60 faces vestibulares da câmara pulpar de dentes bovinos foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 4 grupos experimentais (G1-AHPlus Imediato; G2-AHPlus Mediato; G3-OZE Imediato; G4-OZE Mediato) e 2 controles (G5- NaOCl + EDTA Imediato e G6-NaOCl + EDTA Mediato). O protocolo de irrigação endodôntica deu-se através da imersão dos espécimes em solução de hipoclorito de sódio a 2.5% por 30 minutos e em EDTA 17% por 3 minutos. Os cimentos testados estiveram em contato com a parede dentinária pelo tempo de presa inicial, seguido de limpeza com algodão embebido em álcool 70% por 1 minuto. Os grupos experimentais de restauração mediata foram mantidos em estufa a 37ºC por 7 dias. Após o corte e a obtenção dos palitos de +/-1,0 mm² foi aplicado o teste de microtração na Máquina de Ensaios Universal e, em seguida, observados em microscópio óptico para classificação da fratura. Os valores da resistência de união foram submetidos ao teste não-paramétrico Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney comparando dois a dois grupos a um nível de significância de 5%. Os resultados mostraram que o grupo G5 obteve menor valor de resistência de união, com diferença estatisticamente significativa (p<0,05) para os demais. O padrão de fratura mais observado nos grupos foi a coesiva em camada híbrida. Conclui-se que a associação NaOCl + EDTA diminui a resistência de união nas restaurações imediatas e que os cimentos endodônticos não alteraram a resistência de união nos períodos testados (AU).

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of endodontic sealer with an irrigation protocol on the bond strength on the dentinal structure of the pulp chamber walls of bovine teeth restored immediately and after 7 days of endodontic treatment. Endodontic sealer were evaluated: epoxy resin-based sealer (AH Plus - Dentsply, DeTrey, Konstanz- Germany) and zinc oxide and eugenol sealer (Endofill - Dentsply Ind.com. LTDA - Brazil). To perform the restorations, the Single Bond 2® adhesive system (3M / ESPE) and the composite resin Z 350TM (3M / ESPE) were used. 60 vestibular faces of the pulp chamber of bovine teeth were randomly assigned to 4 experimental groups (G1-AHPlus Immediate; G2-AHPlus Mediato; G3-OZE Immediate; G4-OZE Mediato) and 2 controls (G5- NaOCl + EDTA Immediate and G6- NaOCl + EDTA Mediato). The endodontic irrigation protocol was carried out by immersing the specimens in 2.5% sodium hypochlorite solution for 30 minutes and in 17% EDTA for 3 minutes. The tested sealers were in contact with the dentin wall for the initial setting time, followed by cleaning with cotton soaked in 70% alcohol for 1 minute. The experimental groups of mediated restoration were kept in an oven at 37ºC for 7 days. After cutting and obtaining the +/- 1.0 mm² toothpicks, the microtensile test was applied to the Universal Testing Machine and then observed under an optical microscope to classify the fracture. The bond strength values were subjected to the non-parametric Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test comparing two to two groups at a significance level of 5%. The results showed that the G5 group had a lower bond strength value, with a statistically significant difference (p <0.05) for the others. The most observed fracture pattern in the groups was cohesive in a hybrid layer. It is concluded that the association NaOCl + EDTA decreases the bond strength in immediate restorations and that endodontic sealer did not change the bond strength in the tested periods (AU).

Análise de sistemas reciprocantes quanto a produção de desvios e remoção de material obturador em canais radiculares: estudo in vitro / Analysis of reciprocal systems regarding the production of deviations and removal of filling material in root canals: in vitro study

O retratamento endodôntico é um procedimento realizado quando o tratamento anterior tem insucesso e visa reverter os processos infecciosos, removendo completamente o material obturador permitindo uma nova limpeza, modelagem e reobturação dos canais radiculares. Com vistas a melhoria das taxas de sucesso e eficiência do retratamento, vários sistemas de níquel-titânio (NiTi) têm sido desenvolvidos com a utilização de apenas um instrumento por meio de um movimento reciprocante, levantado novas perspectivas para o preparo biomecânico do canal radicular, bem como, o retratamento. Portanto, este estudo teve por objetivo analisar a produção de desvio e capacidade de limpeza durante retratamento dos canais mesiais de molares inferiores com curvaturas severas (30° e 70°), obturados com BioC Sealer após utilização dos sistemas reciprocantes. Uma amostra de sessenta molares inferiores foi dividida em quatro grupos experimentais, assim distribuídos: G1- X1-Blue (25.06); G2- WaveOne Gold Primary (25.07); G3- Reciproc Blue (25.08); G4- WA1 (25.07). Cada grupo continha 15 molares, totalizando 120 canais mesiais, os quais passaram pela aquisição e processamento das imagens iniciais no Microtomográfo, para que posteriormente, fosse realizado o pareamento dos grupos. Todos os grupos foram instrumentados com o sistema de rotação continua Pro Taper Next. Após instrumentação, foram obturados com cone de guta percha ProTaper Universal, selados e colocados em estufa a 37 °C, 100% de umidade durante 72 horas. Para análise de desvio e remoção da obturação dos canais as amostras foram escaneadas por meio da Microtomografia (MicroCT). Por fim, foi avaliado e medido o desvio apical através da comparação das imagens dos canais obtidas pelas Micro-CT após o retratamento, bem como a remoção do material obturador, para posterior análise estatística. Os resultados quanto a produção de desvio após remoção do material obturador, entre grupos, demonstrou não haver diferença estatisticamente significante tanto para os canais radiculares mesio vestibulares como para os canais mesio linguais (p > 0,05). Na análise intra grupo, não houve diferença em relação aos grupos G1(X1 Blue), G2 (Wave one Gold) e G3 (Reciproc Blue) (p > 0,05), porém o grupo G4 (WA1) apresentou diferença significante, mostrando maior grau de desvio no canal mesio lingual do que no mesio vestibular (p < 0,05). Com relação a remoção do material obturado, na análise entre grupo, para o canal Mesio vestibular, pode-se observar que em todos os grupos houve uma diminuição no sentido cervical para apical, porém, no grupo G4 (WA1) observou-se uma maior remoção tanto no terço médio quanto no apical. No terço cervical a maior remoção do material obturador ocorreu no grupo G2 (Wave one Gold), seguido do G4 (WA1), G3 (Reciproc Blue) e G1(X1 Blue). Para o canal mesio lingual, o grupo G4 (WA1) demonstrou uma maior estabilidade de remoção do material obturador em todos os terços. No terço cervical houve uma maior remoção do material obturador no grupo G2, seguido do G4, G3 e G1, já no terço médio foi no grupo G2, seguido do G1, G4 e G3. No terço apical, o grupo G4 promoveu maior capacidade de remoção de material obturador, seguido de G1, G2 e G3. Para comparação entre médias intragrupos, não houve diferença estatisticamente significante quando se comparou os terços cervical/médio para os Grupos G1 e G4 (tanto no canal Mesio vestibular como no mesio lingual) e terços médio/apical (apenas no canal Mesio lingual), porém, o terço apical foi observado uma maior dificuldade na remoção do material obturador. Conclui-se que a maiorias dos sistemas reciprocantes testados no retratamento promoveram desvio apical, porém o sistema WA1 foi capaz de produzir menos desvio no canal Mesio vestibular. Os sistemas reciprocantes utilizados foram capazes de remove grande parte do material obturador, mas não em sua totalidade, o terço apical foi o que mais dificultou a remoção do material obturador, porém, o sistema WA1 foi o que apresentou maior desempenho neste terço (AU).

Endodontic retreatment is a procedure performed when the previous treatment is unsuccessful and aims to reverse infectious processes, completely removing the shutter material allowing a new cleaning, modeling and reobturation of root canals. With a view to improving success rates and retreatment efficiency, several nickel-titanium (NiTi) systems have been developed with the use of only one instrument through a reciprocal movement, raising new perspectives for biomechanical preparation of the root canal, as well as retreatment. Therefore, this study aimed to analyze the production of deviation and cleaning capacity during retreatment of the mesiaal channels of lower molars with severe curvatures (30° and 70°), obtained with BioC Sealer after using reciprocating systems. A sample of sixty lower molars was divided into four experimental groups, thus distributed: G1- X1-Blue (25.06); G2- WaveOne Gold Primary (25.07); G3- Reciproc Blue (25.08); G4- WA1 (25.07). Each group contained 15 molars, totaling 120 mesiaal channels, which passed through the acquisition and processing of the initial images in the Microtomográfo, so that later, the pairing of the groups was performed. All groups have been instrumented with the continuous Rotation System Pro Taper Next. After instrumentation, they were filled with protaper universal percha gutcone, sealed and placed in a greenhouse at 37 °C, 100% humidity for 72 hours. For analysis of deviation and removal of the filling of the channels, the samples were scanned by microtomography (Micro-CT). Finally, apical deviation was evaluated and measured by comparing the images of the channels obtained by micro-CT after retreatment, as well as removal of the shutter material, for further statistical analysis. The results regarding the production of deviation after removal of the shutter material between groups, showed no statistically significant difference both for vestibular mesium root canals and for lingual mesio channels (p > 0.05). In the intra-group analysis, there was no difference in relation to groups G1(X1 Blue), G2 (Wave one Gold) and G3 (Reciproc Blue) (p > 0.05), but group G4 (WA1) showed a significant difference, showing a higher degree of deviation in the lingual mesium channel than in the vestibular mesium (p < 0.05). Regarding the removal of the obtained material, in the analysis between group, for the vestibular Mesio canal, it can be observed that in all groups there was a decrease in the cervical direction to apical, however, in group G4 (WA1) there was a greater removal in both the middle and apical third. In the cervical third the highest removal of the shutter material occurred in group G2 (Wave one Gold), followed by G4 (WA1), G3 (Reciproc Blue) and G1 (X1 Blue). For the lingual mesio channel, group G4 (WA1) demonstrated greater shutter material removal stability across all thirds. In the cervical third, there was a higher removal of the shutter material in group G2, followed by G4, G3 and G1, already in the middle third it was in group G2, followed by G1, G4 and G3. In the apical third, group G4 promoted higher shutter material removal capacity, followed by G1, G2 and G3. For comparison between intragroup means, there was no statistically significant difference when comparing the cervical/middle thirds for Groups G1 and G4 (both in the vestibular mesio channel and in the lingual mesium) and middle/apical thirds (only in the lingual Mesio canal), however, the apical third was observed a greater difficulty in removing the shutter material. It was concluded that most of the reciprocal systems tested in the retreatment promoted apical deviation, but the WA1 system was able to produce less deviation in the vestibular Mesio canal. The reciprocal systems used were able to remove much of the shutter material, but not in its entirety, the apical third was the one that most difficult to remove the shutter material, however, the WA1 system was the one that performed higher in this third (AU).

Fish scale artefact on an intraoral imaging receptor.

OBJECTIVES: To describe an artefact, termed the fish scale artefact, present on an intraoral imaging receptor. METHODS: Thirty brand new DIGORA Optime photostimulable phosphor (PSP) plates (Soredex/Orion Corp., Helsinki, Finland) were imaged using the dental digital quality assurance radiographic phantom (Dental Imaging Consultants LLC, San Antonio, TX). All PSP plates were scanned at the same spatial resolution (dpi) using the high resolution mode. Two evaluators assessed all 30 plates. Each evaluator assessed the 30 PSP plates separately for purposes of establishing interrater reliability, and then together in order to obtain the gold standard result. RESULTS: The fish scale artefact was detected on 46.7% of the PSP plates. The kappa coefficient for interrater reliability was 0.86 [95% CI (0.69-1.00)], indicating excellent interrater reliability. For Evaluator 1, sensitivity was 0.85 [95% CI (0.55-0.98)]; specificity was 0.94 [CI (0.71-1.00)] and overall accuracy was 0.90 [95% CI (0.73-0.98)]. For Evaluator 2, sensitivity was 1.00 [95% CI (0.75-1.00)]; specificity was 0.94 [CI (0.71-1.00)] and overall accuracy was 0.97 [95% CI (0.83-1.00)]. These results indicate excellent agreement with the gold standard for both evaluators. CONCLUSIONS: Utilizing a comprehensive quality assurance protocol, we identified a fish scale artefact inherent to the image receptor. Additional research is needed to determine if the artefact remains static over time or if it increases over time. Likewise, research to determine the potential sources contributing to an increase in the artefact is needed.

Precision of guided scanning procedures for full-arch digital impressions in vivo.

PURPOSE: System-specific scanning strategies have been shown to influence the accuracy of full-arch digital impressions. Special guided scanning procedures have been implemented for specific intraoral scanning systems with special regard to the digital orthodontic workflow. The aim of this study was to evaluate the precision of guided scanning procedures compared to conventional impression techniques in vivo. METHOD: Two intraoral scanning systems with implemented full-arch guided scanning procedures (Cerec Omnicam Ortho; Ormco Lythos) were included along with one conventional impression technique with irreversible hydrocolloid material (alginate). Full-arch impressions were taken three times each from 5 participants (n = 15). Impressions were then compared within the test groups using a point-to-surface distance method after best-fit model matching (OraCheck). Precision was calculated using the (90-10%)/2 quantile and statistical analysis with one-way repeated measures ANOVA and post hoc Bonferroni test was performed. RESULTS: The conventional impression technique with alginate showed the lowest precision for full-arch impressions with 162.2 ± 71.3 µm. Both guided scanning procedures performed statistically significantly better than the conventional impression technique (p < 0.05). Mean values for group Cerec Omnicam Ortho were 74.5 ± 39.2 µm and for group Ormco Lythos 91.4 ± 48.8 µm. CONCLUSIONS: The in vivo precision of guided scanning procedures exceeds conventional impression techniques with the irreversible hydrocolloid material alginate. Guided scanning procedures may be highly promising for clinical applications, especially for digital orthodontic workflows.

The effect of image enhancements and dual observers on proximal caries detection.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to determine if the use of certain image enhancements and dual observers had an effect on the detection of caries, dentin extension, and cavitation. STUDY DESIGN: Seven observers viewed unenhanced and enhanced images taken on photostimulable phosphor plates (PSP) and Schick 33 sensors and were asked to determine whether proximal caries lesions, dentin extension, and cavitation were present. Pairs of observers also evaluated the unenhanced PSP images and recorded their confidence. Micro-computed tomography was used as the gold standard. RESULTS: For caries lesion detection, PSP outperformed Schick sensors, although the differences are most likely not clinically significant. Observers (single and dual) and filters had no effect on any of the diagnostic tasks. Schick sensors and unfiltered images were more specific for dentin extension. CONCLUSIONS: Caries detection was statistically greater with the PSP plate, but both detectors allowed for high accuracy. Expensive software or time-consuming consultations did not improve outcomes.

Imaging evaluating of the implant/bone interface-an in vitro radiographic study.

OBJECTIVES: To analyze the diagnostic accuracy of conventional and digital radiographic images and the impact of digital filters in evaluating the bone-implant interface. METHODS: Titanium implants were inserted into 74 fresh bovine ribs blocks, 37 fitting tight to the bone walls (simulating the existence of osseointegration) and 37 with a gap of 0.125 mm (simulating a failure in the osseointegration process). Periapical radiographs were taken with conventional film and two phosphor plate systems [VistaScan® (Dürr Dental, Bietigheim-Bissingen, Germany) and Express® (Instrumentarium, Tuusula, Finland)]. Digital radiographs were investigated with and without enhancement filters. Three blinded examiners assessed the images for the presence of juxtaposition in the bone-implant interface using a five-point Likert scale. Sensitivity, specificity and the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUC) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated for each variable. Intraexaminer and interexaminer agreements were analyzed using Kendall's concordance test. RESULTS: Intraexaminer and interexaminer agreements were >0.80 for both digital and conventional images. Conventional radiographs (AUC = 0.963/CI = 0.891 to 0.993) and digital images with high enhancement filters such as Caries2 (AUC = 0.964/CI = 0.892 to 0.993), Endo (AUC = 0.952/CI = 0.875 to 0.988) and Sharpen3 (AUC = 0.894/CI = 0.801 to 0.954) showed the greatest accuracy for evaluating the bone-implant interface. Original images from both digital systems and the further enhancement filters tested showed low sensitivity for the diagnosis task tested. CONCLUSIONS: Conventional radiographs or digital radiographs with high-pass filters could help enhance diagnosis on implant-bone interface.

Perception versus reality-findings from a phosphor plate quality assurance study.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate the image quality of a photostimulable phosphor (PSP) plate system to determine if image degradation has occurred after a number of clinical uses. STUDY DESIGN: Twenty DIGORA Optime PSP plates (Soredex Orion Corp., Helsinki, Finland) were imaged throughout clinical use. Image quality was assessed by using spatial and contrast resolution through the use of the dental radiographic phantom designed for the Nationwide Evaluation of X-Ray Trends surveys of 1993 and 1999. Spatial resolution was summarized in line pairs per millimeter. The paired t test was used to analyze the contrast wells. The contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) was calculated to determine the signal-to-noise ratio as another measure of contrast. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the CNR ratios. RESULTS: Spatial resolution decreased after 48 clinical uses. No significant differences were found for the pairwise comparisons of the contrast wells. No CNR varied by more than two-tenths' value difference. CONCLUSIONS: Digora Optime PSP plates displayed unaffected image quality up to 48 clinical uses. Additional studies are needed to confirm these results and to establish guidelines for appropriate replacement intervals for PSP plates.

RadioVisioGraphy: A Simplified Nasal Bone Radiographic Imaging Tool.

Nasal fractures account for approximately 50% of all facial fractures. Although nasal fractures are the most common facial fracture, they often go unnoticed by physicians and patients. A simple radiographic imaging of the isolated nasal bone can be done by RadioVisioGraphy dental imaging system with high resolution and less radiation.

Prevalence of Dental Developmental Anomalies in Patients Attending a Faculty of Dentistry in Ajman, United Arab Emirates

Objective: To determine the prevalence of dental developmental anomalies among patients visiting the dental clinics at Ajman University, United Arab Emirates. Material and Methods: This retrospective study consisted of 425 digital panoramic radiographs. The study sample included people in the United Arab Emirates who have visited the outpatient dental clinics at the Faculty of Dentistry, at Ajman University. These OPGs have been evaluated for the presence of dental anomalies such as: Macrodontia, Microdontia, Talon cusp, Taurodontism, Dilaceration, Ectopic Eruption, Supernumerary teeth or roots, Fusion, Gemination, and Concrescense. Results: 80.7% had at least 1 anomaly, with the maximum of 5 anomalies presented in 1.2% of the sample. Dilacerations were the most commonly identified anomaly (61.4%), followed by missing third molars (22.8%), and Ectopic Eruption (15.5%) where (12.9%) of this anomaly has affected the maxillary canines. Hypercementosis (10.2%) followed by Microdontia (4.6%), which was mostly seen in the Upper laterals. Taurodontism accounted for (4.1%), Macrodontia (2.3%) and Talon cusp (2.3%). Gemination, Dens Invaginatus, and Concrescence were separately present in 1.1%, each one, of the cases observed. Conclusion: Variations in data and results among different studies suggest the impact of racial, genetic and environmental factors. The high frequency of dental anomalies emphasize the need of early detection and diagnosis which can be achieved through radiographic imaging, this would aid in further awareness to minimize any means of complexity in dental problems.

Microbial contamination in intraoral phosphor storage plates: the dilemma.

OBJECTIVES: The aims of this study were to evaluate microbial contamination in phosphor storage plates in dental radiology services and discuss the possible origin of this contamination. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The sample comprised 50 phosphor plates: 14 plates from service A, 30 from service B, and 6 in the control group, consisting of plates never used. Damp sterile swabs were rubbed on the phosphor plates, and then transferred to tests tubes containing sterile saline solution. Serial dilutions were made, and then inoculated in triplicate on Mueller Hinton agar plates and incubated at 37 °C/48 h, before counting the colony-forming units (CFU). The samples were also seeded in brain-heart infusion medium to confirm contamination by turbidity of the culture medium. All solutions, turbid and clean, were seeded in selective and non-selective media. RESULTS: At service A and B, 50 and 73.3 % of the phosphor plates were contaminated, respectively. This contamination was mainly due to bacteria of the genus Staphylococcus. CFU counts ranged from 26.4 to 80.0 CFU/plate. CONCLUSIONS: Most of the phosphor plates evaluated shown to be contaminated, mainly by Staphylococcus ssp. Quantitatively, this contamination occurred at low levels, possibly arising from handling of the plates. The use of a second plastic barrier may have diminished contamination by microorganisms from the oral cavity. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: There is a risk of cross-contamination by phosphor storage plates used in dental radiology services.

Detection of Simulated Vertical Root Fractures: Which Cone-beam Computed Tomographic System Is the Most Accurate?

INTRODUCTION: We aimed to compare the diagnostic accuracy of 5 cone-beam computed tomographic (CBCT) systems in detecting vertical root fractures (VRFs) and to assess whether fracture identification is affected by the presence of root canal filling. METHODS: Eighty extracted posterior teeth were included in this study. They were grouped according to the presence/absence of VRFs and the presence/absence of endodontic treatment. The teeth were then inserted in 5 dry skull/mandible assemblies. CBCT scans were performed using 5 different commercially available systems. Two observers evaluated the resultant multiplanar images twice for VRFs using a 3-point scale. RESULTS: i-CAT (Imaging Sciences International, Hatfield, PA) showed the highest diagnostic accuracy in the detection of VRFs among the 5 investigated CBCT systems. The presence of root canal filling did not significantly decrease the ability to detect VRFs by all the studied systems. In the detection of VRFs in endodontically treated teeth, i-CAT was the most accurate, whereas 3D Accuitomo (J. Morita, Kyoto, Japan) was the least. Interobserver agreement was moderate for the i-CAT and fair for the rest of the studied modalities, whereas intraobserver agreement was good for the Scanora 3D (Soredex, Tuusula, Finland) and moderate for images from the other CBCT machines. CONCLUSIONS: At the specified exposure parameters in the detection of VRFs in non-root canal-filled teeth, i-CAT showed the highest diagnostic accuracy followed by Planmeca Promax 3D (Planmeca, Helsinki, Finland), Scanora 3D, Accuitomo 3D, and Galileos 3D (Sirona Dental Systems, Bensheim, Germany), respectively. In the detection of VRFs in root canal-filled teeth, i-CAT showed the highest diagnostic accuracy followed by Planmeca Promax 3D, Scanora 3D, Galileos Comfort (Sirona Dental Systems), and Accuitomo 3D.

Comparison of the performance of intraoral X-ray sensors using objective image quality assessment.

OBJECTIVES: The main aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of 10 individual sensors of the same make, using objective measures of key image quality parameters. A further aim was to compare 8 brands of sensors. STUDY DESIGN: Ten new sensors of 8 different models from 6 manufacturers (i.e., 80 sensors) were included in the study. All sensors were exposed in a standardized way using an X-ray tube voltage of 60 kVp and different exposure times. Sensor response, noise, low-contrast resolution, spatial resolution and uniformity were measured. RESULTS: Individual differences between sensors of the same brand were surprisingly large in some cases. There were clear differences in the characteristics of the different brands of sensors. The largest variations were found for individual sensor response for some of the brands studied. Also, noise level and low contrast resolution showed large variations between brands. CONCLUSIONS: Sensors, even of the same brand, vary significantly in their quality. It is thus valuable to establish action levels for the acceptance of newly delivered sensors and to use objective image quality control for commissioning purposes and periodic checks to ensure high performance of individual digital sensors.

Image quality evaluation of eight complementary metal-oxide semiconductor intraoral digital X-ray sensors.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the image quality generated by eight commercially available intraoral sensors. METHODS: Eighteen clinicians ranked the quality of a bitewing acquired from one subject using eight different intraoral sensors. Analytical methods used to evaluate clinical image quality included the Visual Grading Characteristics method, which helps to quantify subjective opinions to make them suitable for analysis. RESULTS: The Dexis sensor was ranked significantly better than Sirona and Carestream-Kodak sensors; and the image captured using the Carestream-Kodak sensor was ranked significantly worse than those captured using Dexis, Schick and Cyber Medical Imaging sensors. The Image Works sensor image was rated the lowest by all clinicians. Other comparisons resulted in non-significant results. CONCLUSIONS: None of the sensors was considered to generate images of significantly better quality than the other sensors tested. Further research should be directed towards determining the clinical significance of the differences in image quality reported in this study.