Document Type : Original Articles

Abstract

Introduction: Considering the diverse uses of panoramic radiographs in dentistry, precise measurement of dimensional changes in each region of the radiograph can be effective in their clinical application. The aim of the present study was to examine the horizontal and vertical magnification of different areas of the jaws on analog panoramic radiographs. Materials and Methods: In this descriptive analytical study, 10 dry human skulls were marked by gutta-percha in different horizontal and vertical dental areas (central, lateral, canine, first and second premolar and first and second molar areas) and radiographs were then prepared from each skull using two analog panoramic machines (Planmeca XC and Soredex Cranex-Tome). Measurement on the skulls and radiographs were independently carried out by two observers. Data were analyzed by SPSS 18 software. Horizontal and vertical magnifications were computed in each region and compared with the values reported by the manufacturer at a significance level of 95%. Inter-class correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated for each observer and between observers. Results: The magnification means in transverse and vertical dimensions with Planmeca XC were 1.04 ± 0.15 and 1.15 ± 0.08, respectively, yielding differences of -0.046 and -0.15 from the values reported by the manufacturer. The magnification means in transverse and vertical dimensions with Soredex Cranex-Tome were 1.05 ± 0.15 and 1.17 ± 0.08, respectively, yielding differences of -0.12 and -0.24 from the values reported by the manufacturer. The intra-observer and inter-observer ICCs were 98% and 95%, respectively. Conclusion: Under the limitations of the present study, the magnification means in vertical and horizontal dimensions in various regions of the jaws, reported by manufactures, are reliable.   Key words: Dry human skull, Panoramic radiography, Radiographic magnification