Dose exposure from analog and digital full mouth radiography and panoramic radiography

: The present study investigated the dose exposition in the head and neck region by use of analog and digital radiographic dental systems. Four radiographic devices were tested: panoramic radiography (analog and digital) and 14-image full-mouth-survey (FMS, analog and digital). Organ doses were measured on a Rando-phantom by use of CaF2-dosimeters according to the IRCP-guidelines and the effective doses calculated. The results were the following: the value of E was lowest in digital FMS (41 microSv) and highest in analog FMS (78 microSv), i.e. dose was reduced by 47% by using a digital device. In panoramic radiography, doses were 17% lower using digital technique (digital 45 microSv vs. analog 54 pSv). Thus, FMS is no longer associated with higher doses than orthopantomography when conventional films are replaced by digital techniques.