A comparative study on the dentin thickness under proximal ‌carious in bitewing radiographs and tooth structure

Dr. F. Ezedini Ardekani*- Dr. A. Davari** - Dr. M. Fatehi***

*-Assistant professor of Radiology Dept.- Faculty of Dentistry-Yazd University of Medical Sciences.

**-Assistant professor of Operative Dentistry Dept.-Faculty of Dentistry-Yazd University of Medical Sciences.

*** - Dentist.

Background and aim: Carious lesions are generally found by dentists, using bite wing(B.W) radiographs and according to the observed depth of lesions, the treatment plan is designed. Although this technique is presently the most accepted and common one, due to the use of new high speed films with broad density and high voltages, there are some errors in determining the depth of proximal carious lesions. The goal of this study was to compare dentin thickness under proximal caries in bitewing radiography and tooth structure.

Materials and Methods: Twenty - five tooth samples, consisting of 20 proximal carious lesions, were selected. Prior to and after caries removal, B.W radiographs were taken. Then, radiographs were investigated by two specialists, (Radiology and Operative Dentistry) and dentin thickness under caries were measured using a probe. Each tooth was then sectioned occluso gingivally and the thickness of dentin under proximal caries, on B.W radiographs and tooth stucture were measured by computer. Five healthy teeth were used as controls and 2 bitewing radiographs, before and , after cavity preparation,were taken and dentin thickness were also measured. The data were subjected to t-test.

Results: Mean dentin thickness in tooth structure was % 57 of its mean thickness in bitewing. radiography, showing a %42 reduction.

Conclusion: More care should be paid while applying bitewing standard technique and its interpretation. Clinical examinations should also be performed under ideal conditions.

Key Words: Bitewing radiograph - Interproximal caries - Dentin thickness.