COMPARISON BETWEEN DIFFERENT IMAGING MODALITIES

Question 1

BW: 3 indications compared with panoramic (Summative, 2019)

Answer 1

1. For detecting interproximal caries in the early stages of development before it becomes clinically
   apparent.
    Because of the horizontal angle of the x-ray beam, these radiographs also may reveal secondary
   caries below restorations that may escape recognition in the periapical views.
2. For evaluating the periodontal condition.
    They provide a good perspective of the alveolar bone crest, and changes in bone height can be assessed accurately through comparison with the adjacent teeth. In addition,
3. For detecting calculus deposits in interproximal areas.
    Because of its relatively low radio density, calculus is better visualized on images made with
   reduced exposure
4. Monitoring the progression of dental caries
5. Assessment of existing restorations
6. Assessment of the periodontal status.

Question 2

BW: 2 advantages compared with panoramic (Summative, 2019)

Answer 2

Advantages over panoramic:
 Higher resolution than panoramic
 Panoramic imaging may produce possible overlapping

Question 3

Advantages of panoramic radiograph

Answer 3

• Single exposure, relative convenience compared with multiple films
• Whole dentition shown
• Apices shown
• Greater patient tolerance
• Often a lower radiation exposure

Question 4

Advantages of full-mouth intraoral periapical

Answer 4

• Long cone paralleling technique gives high quality image and reproducibility (Representation of alveolar bone destruction is more accurate)
• Apices shown

Question 5

Disadvantages of panoramic radiograph compared to full-mouth intraoral radiographic examination

Answer 5

- Image quality poorer than intra-oral films
o Overlapping of teeth
o Anterior teeth may be less
well visualized
o Cement-enamel junction
often not clear
- Less accurate than intra-oral
radiographs

Question 6

Disadvantages of Full-mouth intraoral periapical

Answer 6

• Multiple films

- Time consuming

Question 7

What limitation of radiograph regarding to the examination of periodontal health

Answer 7

 Using radiographs the amount of bony destruction can be underestimated in patients with early
periodontal disease and overestimated in patients with advanced disease
 Some calculus may not be able to be detected
 Detection of furcation depends on the radiographic view used, some furcation may be detected in clinical
setting but not in radiographs

(alternative answer available on page 25)