The aim of this study was to evaluate, subjectively, the image quality of two CCD digital systems, a digital storage phosphor system, a digitized film and an E-speed film. Five objects were radiographed with 50, 60 and 70 kVp, with exposure times of 0.08, 0.13, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.8 s. In order to maximize the fidelity of the results, the dental X-ray unit employed was submitted to an evaluation so that the relation between exposure time and dose could be established. A good reproducibility was obtained. Six evaluators analyzed 375 images, using a scoring scale which ranged from 0 to 4. The results revealed different responses, indicating that the storage phosphor system had the best performance, in the various exposures employed. However, it was possible to conclude that all systems studied, except for the Sens-A-Ray, can offer images in ideal conditions for the diagnosis, as long as their latitudes are respected.
Radiography, dental; Radiographic image enhancement
