Detection of Natural and Simulated Periodontal Defects Using Cone-Beam Computed Tomography and Digital Intraoral Radiography

Objectives: In this study, it was aimed to compare the diagnostic value of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and digital intraoral periapical imaging methods in the diagnosis of periodontal defects, and the comparison of observers practicing dentistry in the field of periodontology and 3 other observers specialized in various branches was evaluated. Methods: 7 dry mandible and 5 dry maxilla were used in this study. A total of 111 artificial and natural defects (dehiscence, furca, fenestration, vertical defects) on the anterior, premolar and molar region were imaged with digital imaging techniques using different exposure parameters and scanned with CBCT. Results: According to the results of this study, CBCT is a more reliable method in the evaluation of all periodontal defects compared to CCD and PSP. 60 and 70 kVp with 0.01 irradiation time in CCD and 70 kVp 0.25 irradiation time in PSP is not suitable for detecting defects owing to high contrast. In the evaluation of periodontal defects, there was no single observer who had good results, different imaging methods and varying results were obtained in different defects. Conclusion: This study showed that the CBCT method has some diagnostic value for detecting all natural and simulated periodontal defects but it should only be used in cases where clinical evaluation and conventional radiographic imaging do not provide the information necessary for an adequate diagnosis and proper periodontal treatment planning.