Abstract :

  Background and Aim: Early diagnosis of bone pathologic lesions is of paramount importance in enabling the clinician to provide immediate and appropriate dental treatment. Conventional radiographs have always been used as the primary and fundamental means of diagnosis, treatment and follow up of endodontic lesions. In recent years, digital imaging has gained high popularity for diagnostic purposes. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of digital radiographic imaging compared to conventional radiography in detecting mechanically created jaw bone lesions.

  Materials and Methods : This experimental study was conducted on the lower jaw of a cow cadaver. Mechanical lesions with different depths (0.5, 1, 1.5, 2, 2.5, 3, 4,5mm)were drilled into the jaw with a surgical bur (021). A digital radiograph followed by a conventional image with E-speed film were obtained and the images were evaluated by five examiners. Wilcoxon Signed-Ranks test was used for statistical analysis.

  Results: According to the results of this study, examiners were more successful in detecting lesions with DDR than with conventional radiography.The mean value and standard deviation of detection score were 1/25 ± 0/98 for conventional and 1/85 ± 0/53 for digital methods. This difference was statistically significant. (P< 0.001)

  Conclusion : The adequacy of digital radiography in detection of bone lesions is much higher than conventional radiography. Digital images are recommended for diagnostic purposes.