An evaluation of periapical radiography with a charge-coupled device

OBJECTIVES: To compare the standards of periapical radiography with a CCD-image receptor with film. METHODS: Three radiography technicians exposed a total of fifty teeth from all areas of the jaws using either size 1 or size 2 film and the Sidexis (Siemens, Bensheim, Germany) direct digital dental radiography system with the appropriate film holders. Image quality was assessed by two dental radiologists for nine individual criteria and overall, on a three-point scale. RESULTS: There was a significant difference between film and sensor exposures (P < 0.014). Six per cent of dental films required retakes compared with 28% with the sensor. CONCLUSION: Periapical radiography with a CCD sensor leads to more errors and thus more retakes than conventional film.