The Revolution in Endodontic Imaging: Extraoral Periapical Radiography

Abstract

Aim To evaluate the accuracy of extraoral periapical radiography in all phases of endodontic therapy and to determine the magnification error by comparing it with the radiographs obtained from the standard intraoral approach using intraoral films and sensors.

Introduction Good quality radiographs help the dentist to verify the appropriate working length, gutta-percha points adjustment and presence of voids in the root canal filling in endodontic therapy. Conventional intraoral periapical radiography is widely used in all the phases of endodontic therapy. Although this technique is advantageous, it is very difficult to be used in patients with severe gag reflex, pediatric patients, patients with restricted mouth opening, mentally retarded and dental phobia. An alternative is an extraoral periapical radiographic technique that can be utilized while performing endodontic therapy for such compromised patients.

Materials and Methods This is an in vitro, comparative study in which premolars and molars was included on a standard phantom head. The tooth specimens were divided into four groups on which radiation is exposed using the following radiographic technique,

Group A - Intraoral radiography using intraoral films; Group B - Intraoral radiography using sensors; Group C - Extraoral radiography using intraoral films; Group D - Extraoral radiography using sensors.
The accuracy of extraoral periapical radiography in all phases of endodontic therapy was determined and magnification error was compared using scale function of measuring tool.

Results No statistically significant difference between the four experimental groups was observed (P > 0.05).

Conclusion In conclusion, this technique is not meant for replacing conventional intraoral radiography, however, it can be used for replacing intraoral periapical radiography when intraoral film is difficult to place in patient’s mouth.