Technique for linear measurement on panoramic and periapical radiographs: a pilot study.

Objective: This study was conducted to compare vertical and horizontal periodontal measurements of posterior teeth on standardized panoramic and intraoral radiographs.

Methods And Materials: Standardized panoramic and periapical radiographs were made of 16 human skulls using ball bearings placed on the maxillary first molars to allow adjustment for horizontal and vertical magnification.

Results: At 14 of 19 measurement sites there was no significant difference between measurements on the 2 radiographic film types.