This study aims to determine the best light intensity in displaying tooth radiographs taken using a smartphone and monitor screen

Oct 13, 2025 by talynt.org 28 views

The Difference Between the Appearance of Tooth Radiographs with Endodontic Treatments Photographed Using Smartphones and Monitor Screens at Different Light Intensity

Introduction

In the field of endodontics, accurate diagnosis through radiography is crucial for the success of treatment. However, dentists often face challenges in distinguishing various elements in radiographic images, including turbidity, apical anatomical tissue, root canal fillers, and resorption due to the inflammatory process. This is often exacerbated by the use of uncalibrated image display devices and inconsistent lighting conditions in the clinic. The use of smartphones and monitor screens to display tooth radiographs has become increasingly common, but the impact of light intensity on the appearance of these images has not been fully explored. This study aims to determine the best light intensity in displaying tooth radiographs taken using a smartphone and monitor screen.

The Importance of Accurate Diagnosis in Endodontic Practice

Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful endodontic treatment. Radiography plays a critical role in this process, allowing dentists to visualize the internal structure of teeth and diagnose conditions such as root canal infections, tooth resorption, and apical periodontitis. However, the accuracy of radiographic diagnosis can be compromised by a range of factors, including the quality of the radiographic image, the skill of the dentist, and the lighting conditions in the clinic. Inconsistent lighting conditions can lead to variations in image display, making it difficult for dentists to distinguish between different elements in the radiograph.

The Impact of Light Intensity on Radiographic Display

Light intensity is a critical factor in radiographic display, and its impact on the appearance of tooth radiographs has been the subject of much research. Studies have shown that light intensity can affect the visibility of radiographic details, with very low or high light levels resulting in clearer images and moderate light levels leading to confusion and reduced accuracy. This study aims to build on this research by investigating the impact of light intensity on the appearance of tooth radiographs taken using a smartphone and monitor screen.

Research Methodology

This study adopted an analytical descriptive approach with a cross-sectional design. Sampling was carried out using a non-probability sampling method with purposive sampling technique, with tooth radiograph images obtained from endodontic treatment being analyzed at three different levels of light intensity: light 1, light 5, and light 9. The results of the analysis were obtained through the Wilcoxon test to compare differences in radiographic display between the use of the smartphone and the monitor screen on every level of light.

Research Results

The results of this study indicate a significant difference in the radiograph display at certain light intensities. In light 1, the P value obtained is 0,000 (<0.05), showing a very significant difference between the display on the smartphone and the monitor screen. Conversely, in light 5, the P value of 0.083 (> 0.05) shows the absence of a significant difference. However, in light 9, the P value obtained is 0.020 (<0.05), indicating a significant difference between the two devices. The conclusion of this study is that the appearance of tooth radiographs taken using a smartphone and monitor screen is significantly different at the light levels 1 and 9, while there are no significant differences at the light level 5.

Analysis and Discussion

From the results of this study, it is clear that the selection of light intensity greatly affects the quality and accuracy of radiographic diagnosis. In very low or high light, the display can be clearer and help the dentist to make a better interpretation of radiographs. Conversely, in moderate light, which seems more commonly used in practice, display can cause confusion and reduce the accuracy of diagnosis. The use of smartphones as a tool to take pictures of tooth radiographs is increasing, and this research provides valuable insight into how lighting factors can affect results. Therefore, it is essential for dentists to realize and adjust the lighting conditions according to the device used to get the optimal radiograph display.

Conclusion

In endodontic practices, understanding the difference in radiographic appearance based on light intensity is crucial. This study provides evidence that the right intensity of light can contribute to improving the quality of diagnosis. By adopting appropriate lighting techniques, the dentist can be more effective in conducting radiographic analysis and optimizing the results of endodontic treatment for patients. The findings of this study have significant implications for the practice of endodontics, highlighting the importance of considering light intensity when displaying tooth radiographs.
Frequently Asked Questions: The Difference Between the Appearance of Tooth Radiographs with Endodontic Treatments Photographed Using Smartphones and Monitor Screens at Different Light Intensity

Q: What is the significance of accurate diagnosis in endodontic practice?

A: Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful endodontic treatment. Radiography plays a critical role in this process, allowing dentists to visualize the internal structure of teeth and diagnose conditions such as root canal infections, tooth resorption, and apical periodontitis.

Q: How does light intensity affect the appearance of tooth radiographs?

A: Light intensity can affect the visibility of radiographic details, with very low or high light levels resulting in clearer images and moderate light levels leading to confusion and reduced accuracy.

Q: What is the impact of using smartphones to take pictures of tooth radiographs?

A: The use of smartphones as a tool to take pictures of tooth radiographs is increasing, and this research provides valuable insight into how lighting factors can affect results. Therefore, it is essential for dentists to realize and adjust the lighting conditions according to the device used to get the optimal radiograph display.

Q: What are the key findings of this study?

A: The results of this study indicate a significant difference in the radiograph display at certain light intensities. In light 1, the P value obtained is 0,000 (<0.05), showing a very significant difference between the display on the smartphone and the monitor screen. Conversely, in light 5, the P value of 0.083 (> 0.05) shows the absence of a significant difference. However, in light 9, the P value obtained is 0.020 (<0.05), indicating a significant difference between the two devices.

Q: What are the implications of this study for the practice of endodontics?

A: The findings of this study have significant implications for the practice of endodontics, highlighting the importance of considering light intensity when displaying tooth radiographs. By adopting appropriate lighting techniques, the dentist can be more effective in conducting radiographic analysis and optimizing the results of endodontic treatment for patients.

Q: How can dentists adjust their lighting conditions to get the optimal radiograph display?

A: Dentists can adjust their lighting conditions by using a light meter to measure the light intensity and adjusting the lighting accordingly. They can also use a calibrated image display device to ensure that the radiographic images are displayed accurately.

Q: What are the limitations of this study?

A: The limitations of this study include the use of a non-probability sampling method with purposive sampling technique, which may not be representative of the entire population. Additionally, the study only investigated the impact of light intensity on the appearance of tooth radiographs taken using a smartphone and monitor screen, and did not consider other factors that may affect radiographic display.

Q: What are the future directions for research in this area?

A: Future research could investigate the impact of other factors on radiographic display, such as the type of image display device used, the skill of the dentist, and the quality of the radiographic image. Additionally, research could explore the development of new technologies to improve radiographic display and diagnosis.