Comparison of the diagnostic matching in panoramic images for identification of edentulous patients by general dentists and Oral and maxillofacial radiologts

Abstract

Introduction In edentulous persons, it is important to use views that can help determine the identity of the persons in forensic dentistry. The aim of this study was to compare the diagnostic compatibility of panoramic images in determining the identity of edentulous persons by general dentists and maxillofacial radiologists.

Materials and methods In this descriptive and analytical study, 150 panoramic images of patients (30 to 80 years old) referred to the radiology department of the Faculty of Dentistry in Tabriz and a private center, who met the conditions for entering the study, were examined. Demographic features were removed to avoid reviewer bias. Each image was numbered and then the images were placed in two PowerPoint presentations. Two general dentists and two radiologists examined the compatibility of images separately. The similarity between the images was described by three items "certain", "likely" and possible". Reviewers were asked to mention landmarks or items that made the match. SPSS.21 statistical software and chi-square test were used for data analysis.

Results The rate of correct diagnosis (matching images) of radiologists (98.66%) was significantly higher than that of general dentists (80%). The level of confidence of radiologists (93.33%) in their answers was significantly higher than that of general dentists (73.33%). Mandible was the most effective in matching panoramic images (82%). The use of this landmark was 74.67% in general dentists and 89.3% in radiologists.

Conclusion It is possible to match panoramic images of edentulous persons in two time periods.