The importance of linear measurements made using panoramic radiography in pre-implant site assessment: actual vs. measured

Background: In order to reduce post-operative failure and ensure successful rehabilitation, patients scheduled for dental implant treatment are often evaluated pre-operatively using radiographic images in addition to clinical examination. This study aimed to investigate the reliability of digital panoramic radiography in the pre-implant site assessment. Methods: Panoramic images of 150 patients with the total of the 396 implants placed in the maxilla (n=165) and mandible (n=231), were examined in the study. Radiographic measurements (vertical and horizontal) were recorded on the computer using the automatic calibration tab for each radiograph and compared with the actual implant dimensions. Moreover, the effects of location, gender, and change in dimensions on magnification rate (MR) were also investigated. The measurements were made by two experienced observers. Results: Panoramic vertical measurements were significantly higher in both the maxilla and mandible compared to the actual implant lengths (p