Evaluation of Diagnostic Efficacy of Digital Subtraction Radiography in the Diagnosis of Simulated External Root Resorption: An in Vitro Study

External root resorption can induce the degeneration of dental cementum and dentine and may extend towards the pulp reductive. Digital subtraction radiography can function as a useful tool in diagnosing degenerative carious lesions. This study investigated the diagnostic value of digital subtraction radiography in detecting external root resorption. This was a descriptive study conducted using the lab trial method. Artificially-induced external root resorption was created in different sizes at the coronal and apical aspects of 20 premolar teeth. Digital radiographs were obtained of each tooth under standard conditions and these radiographs were subtracted by imaging devices. The subtracted images and the digital radiographs were observed by three radiologists. Chi-square, Kappa test, and Z-test were used to analyze the data. The mean of general sensitivity of digital subtraction radiography and direct digital radiography was low in diagnosing 0.05 mm lesions (Sen = 35%), yet, the accuracy index was good for all lesions (Acc ≥ 65%). Other diagnostic parameters were also acceptable. Both types of radiography worked better in diagnosing coronal than apical lesions (P > 0.05). The interpreters (observers) showed a better performance in diagnosing external root resorption using digital subtraction radiography compared to digital radiography. Both modalities were exact and accurate in detecting 0.05 mm lesions as well as other lesions. However, the results of digital subtraction radiography were not significantly different from those of direct digital radiography.