Comparison of Subjective Image Quality of Digital and Printed Dental Radiographs

Abstract

Background: To assess if there is loss of diagnostic information in radiographs when printed on various mediums compared to on-screen digital image and to determine which medium is better for printing radiographs when needed.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at Public Sector Medical University, Karachi from June 2023 to November 2023. This study examined the diagnostic quality of digital panoramic radiographs (OPGs). According to the inclusion and exclusion criteria for dental radiographs, an OPG was selected from the database of patients reporting to the daily OPD of the University. This image was presented on a monitor and printed on various mediums, including conventional film, glossy paper, and plain matte paper.  75 dental professionals from Karachi, Pakistan, evaluated the clarity of anatomical components and analyzed media outcomes for diagnostic accuracy.

Results: The panoramic image displayed on monitor (image a) had the highest subjective image quality followed by (in descending order) image printed on radiographic film (image b), inkjet images printed on glossy paper (image c) and plain paper (image d) (p value= 0.00). However, the differences among the nominal variables with the radiographic images were non-significant (p value > 0.05)

Conclusion: Digital monitors are the preferred method for viewing radiographic images due to their superior image quality. When digital display is unavailable, radiographic film is essential for maintaining diagnostic clarity. If paper printing is required, glossy inkjet paper is recommended.