The evaluation of digital panoramic radiographs taken for implant dentistry in the daily practice

Objectives: This study was conducted 1/ to find out the effects of anatomical sites and implant types on the magnification and 2/ to evaluate the inter-observer variability on the evaluation using the digital panoramas taken at daily practices. Study design: Panoramic radiographs from 156 patients treated with implants were evaluated by three observers. The length was measured on the lateral aspect of the implant in 1: 1 mode using image measurement program and the percent magnification was calculated. The inter-observer correlation coefficient was measured to express inter-observer variability using reliability analysis-scale. Results: The average magnification factor in the panoramic radiograph was 126.8% in the vertical plane. Location within the anatomic arch showed different magnification by a minimum of 119.4% to a maximum of 130.8%. The measurements among three examiners were well correlated showing correlation coefficient of 0.81. The differences between one side and the contralateral side were evaluated and it was shown that the differences were observed only in maxillary anterior and maxillary premolar regions. Additionally, the external non-submerged group had the highest magnification value. Conclusions: It can be concluded that digital panoramic radiographs showed sufficient accuracy and good inter-examiner agreement. The radiographic magnification of implant length may be influenced by anatomical sites and implant types.