Abstract
Clinical evaluation of the orthopantomography is done in this study comparing it with the intraoral periapical radiography and the Waters' projection. The results obtained are as follows : 1. Lesions at the mandibular molar region are often overlooked in the intraoral periapical radiography, and lesions at the maxillary anterior region are also overlooked in the orthopantomography. Two radiographic techniques should be employed to increase detection of high incidences of pathologic conditions. 2. Orthopantomography is superior to the Waters' projection for the detection of cyst-like radiopacity but not for detection of other abnormal changes associated with maxillary sinusitis. 3. Missing teeth increase in number in proportion to aging, and more missing teeth are seen in the maxilla than in the mandible. 4. Periapical lesions increase in number in proportion to aging, and the most common periapical lesions appear radiolucent. The radiolucent lesions are predominantly seen in the mandibular molar region. 5. Widening of the periodontal membrane space increase in number in proportion to aging, and it sometimes accompanies a diffuse osteosclerosis of the surrounding bone. 6. Most of the lesions located apart from the root apex appeared as radiopaque, and radiopaque lesions are predominantly seen in the mandible.
