Evaluation of Accuracy of OPG in Determining Root Morphology of Lower Third Molar When Compared with Gross Examination
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15218/edj.2025.9Keywords:
Panoramic Radiography, Third Molar, Root Morphology, Radiographic accuracyAbstract
Dentists widely use Orthopantomogram (OPG). The accuracy of this device in providing information on root number and morphology has been the point of concern for many years.
Aim: to evaluate the accuracy of OPG in determining the root morphology of the lower third molar (LTM).
Patients and method: During 6 months, thirty-five cases of patients who needed surgery for LTM removal were included. A single machine OPG was used to take X-rays for all patients. On OPG and by gross examination after surgery, information about the number of roots, the relation of roots to each other, and the pattern of a single root was evaluated and put in the Excel sheet. Statistical analysis was carried out using accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity.
Results: OPG had an accuracy of 50.72% for one-rooted, 79.55% for two-rooted, and 50.00% for three- and four-rooted teeth. The relation of roots to each other had an accuracy of 55.56% for fused roots, 58.33% for convergent roots, 50.00% for divergent roots, and 58.33% for other forms. The mesial root pattern accuracy was 54.69% for straight, 77.73% for distally, and 50.00% for buccally and lingually curved. Distal root pattern accuracy was 100.00% for straight, 58.18% for mesially, 55.56% for distally, and 50.72% for buccally curved. The other roots' accuracy was 50.00% for mesially, distally, and buccally curved.
Conclusion: The OPG can be considered accurate in determining the number of roots only for two-rooted teeth and the mesial curvature of the mesial roots. Its accuracy is at a low level in all other morphological specifications of the lower third molar.
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