What Is The Optimal Threshold For The Minimum Detectable Difference In Radiopacity Between Dentin And Enamel Using CBCT Scans With A Voxel Size Of ≤ 150 Μm, And How Does This Threshold Impact The Diagnostic Accuracy Of Proximal Caries Lesions In Permanent Molars?

by ADMIN 264 views

The optimal threshold for the minimum detectable difference (MDD) in radiopacity between dentin and enamel using CBCT scans with a voxel size of ≤150 μm is estimated to be around 50-100 Hounsfield Units (HU). This threshold is crucial for diagnostic accuracy in detecting proximal caries lesions in permanent molars, as it balances the need for sensitivity in early detection with specificity to minimize false positives.

Key Points:

  1. MDD Threshold: The optimal MDD is approximately 50-100 HU. This range allows for the detection of subtle differences in radiopacity, which is essential for identifying early stages of caries where changes in tissue density are minimal.

  2. Impact on Diagnostic Accuracy:

    • Sensitivity: A lower threshold (around 50 HU) enhances the ability to detect early caries lesions, which is critical for timely intervention.
    • Specificity: While a lower threshold may slightly increase false positives, the overall balance favors early detection, which is a priority in dental care.

  3. Factors Influencing MDD: The voxel size of ≤150 μm contributes to higher resolution images, supporting the detection of smaller differences in radiopacity. However, other factors such as the CBCT machine's specifications and observer expertise also play roles in diagnostic accuracy.

In conclusion, setting the MDD threshold at 50-100 HU optimizes the detection of proximal caries, supporting effective and early diagnosis in dental practice.