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  • Title: An evaluation of the diagnostic yield from bitewing radiographs of small approximal and occlusal carious lesions in a low prevalence sample in vitro using different film types and speeds.
    Author: Ricketts DN, Whaites EJ, Kidd EA, Brown JE, Wilson RF.
    Journal: Br Dent J; 1997 Jan 25; 182(2):51-8. PubMed ID: 9033139.
    Abstract:
    AIM: To compare diagnostic yield in caries diagnosis from D- and E-speed films. DESIGN: A laboratory study. SETTING: A UK dental school between 1992 and 1994. MATERIALS AND METHODS: 96 extracted teeth containing approximal and occlusal lesions, but representing a low caries prevalence sample, were set in occluding dental arches. Bitewing radiographs were taken and interpreted by 5 examiners for the presence or absence of caries. Each examiner was also asked which film image he or she subjectively liked best. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: The teeth were subsequently sectioned and histologically examined to validate diagnostic decisions. RESULTS: For all film types the percentage of lesions with caries histologically in dentine correctly identified radiologically (sensitivity) was low (approximal caries 8-22%; occlusal caries 0-30%). The number of sound dentine sites correctly identified (specificity) was high (approximal caries 98-100%; occlusal caries 79-100%). There were no significant differences between D- and E-speed films. Sensitivity was unaffected by each examiner's subjective preference for a particular film. The variation in sensitivity of diagnosis was due to differences between examiners. CONCLUSIONS: The reluctance of many GDPs to use E-speed film because they 'do not like the image' cannot be endorsed or supported. Both E-speed film types examined can be recommended for use in general practice.
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