Imaging Sci Dent.  2013 Sep;43(3):191-196. 10.5624/isd.2013.43.3.191.

Evaluation of the accuracy of linear and angular measurements on panoramic radiographs taken at different positions

• Nikneshan
• Sharafi M
• Emadi N

• KMID: 2167457
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.5624/isd.2013.43.3.191

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study assessed the accuracy of linear and angular measurements on panoramic radiographs taken at different positions in vitro.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Two acrylic models were fabricated from a cast with normal occlusion. Straight and 75degrees mesially and lingually angulated pins were placed, and standardized panoramic radiographs were taken at standard position, at an 8degrees downward tilt of the occlusal plane compared to the standard position, at an 8degrees upward tilt of the anterior occlusal plane, and at a 10degrees downward tilt of the right and left sides of the model. On the radiographs, the length of the pins above (crown) and below (root) the occlusal plane, total pin length, crown-to-root ratio, and angulation of pins relative to the occlusal plane were calculated. The data were subjected to repeated measures ANOVA and LSD multiple comparisons tests.
RESULTS
Significant differences were noted between the radiographic measurements and true values in different positions on both models with linear (P<0.001) and those with angulated pins (P<0.005). No statistically significant differences were observed between the angular measurements and baselines of the natural head posture at different positions for the linear and angulated pins.
CONCLUSION
Angular measurements on panoramic radiographs were sufficiently accurate and changes in the position of the occlusal plane equal to or less than 10degrees had no significant effect on them. Some variations could exist in the pin positioning (head positioning), and they were tolerable while taking panoramic radiographs. Linear measurements showed the least errors in the standard position and 8degrees upward tilt of the anterior part of the occlusal plane compared to other positions.

Keyword

Radiography, Panoramic; Dimensional Measurement Accuracy

MeSH Terms

Dental Occlusion
Dimensional Measurement Accuracy
Head
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide
Posture
Radiography, Panoramic
Lysergic Acid Diethylamide

Figure

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  Fig. 1 Perforating the acrylic model.

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  Fig. 2 Acrylic model along with the inserted pins.

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  Fig. 3 A. Acrylic model along with the inserted pins in the panoramic machine; B. Panoramic image of the inserted pins in the acrylic model.

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