Year : 2024

Volume : Volume 16

Issue : Issue 6

Address for correspondence :
Dr Dhaval Mehta
drdhaval80@gmail.com

Abstract

Background: Panoramic radiography is commonly used in dentistry and often reveals incidental findings unrelated to the patient’s main complaint. These findings may have clinical significance and require careful interpretation. Aim of this study is to assess the prevalence of incidental findings in routine orthopantomographs (OPGs) and analyze their distribution by age and gender. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 subjects aged 18–80 years undergoing digital panoramic radiography at Narsinhbhai Patel Dental College and Hospital, Visnagar. Images were evaluated using CS Imaging V8 software. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 20 with chi-square and frequency tests. A p-value < 0.05 was considered significant. Results: Incidental findings appeared in 40% of radiographs. The most common dental anomaly was impacted teeth (38.04%), followed by root dilacerations (17.4%). Bony anomalies included elongated styloid processes (18.47%) and idiopathic osteosclerosis (15.21%). Soft tissue calcifications like tonsilloliths were found in 2.17% of cases. No significant gender-based differences were observed (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Incidental findings are frequent in panoramic radiographs and are not significantly influenced by age or gender. Comprehensive evaluation of OPGs is essential for all patients, regardless of their presenting complaint. Keywords: Dental anomalies, Incidental findings, Maxillofacial imaging, Orthopantomograph, Panoramic radiograph.