Correlation between Mesio-Distal Angulation and Bucco.-Lingual Inclination of First and Second Maxillary Premolars Evaluated with Panoramic Radiography and Cone-Beam Computed Tomography

Background: Panoramic radiography creates distortion in teeth position and inclination especially in lateral areas of the arches due to acquisition and curved shape of dental arch. The aim of this study was to evaluate panoramic distortion compared to cone-beam computed tomography. Methods: Mesiodistal angulations were measured on panoramic radiography. Mesiodistal angulations and buccolingual inclinations of the teeth were determined on cone-beam computed tomography scans. The previous measurements were then compared through Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: The results showed higher correlation between mesiodistal 2D angulation and buccolingual 3D inclination, especially for first premolars, rather than between mesiodistal angulations measured in 2D and 3D. Conclusion: Especially for the lateral areas of the dental arches, root mesiodistal angulation measured on panoramic radiography is not reliable; in fact, it is greatly influenced by buccolingual inclination. Therefore, clinical evaluation is highly recommended with panoramic radiography to provide correct diagnosis and the most satisfactory results.