Objective and subjective analysis of the image quality of two E-speed dental X-ray films

The image quality of two brands of E-speed intra-oral film (Ektaspeed EP-21, Kodak and Dentus M4, Agfa Gevaert) was compared after exposure at 70 and 90kV and development in four different processing solutions. An aluminium stepwedge and a quality assurance phantom were used for objective and subjective evaluation. Both brands of E-speed film were found to be of almost equal image quality regardless of exposure or processing conditions. Minor differences were found in the objective tests; Dentus M4 film showed slightly higher relative speed and contrast and lower base plus fog values than Ektaspeed EP-21 film. In the subjective assessment, there was a slight tendency for the examiners to prefer the Ektaspeed EP-21 film. The best combination was Dentus M4 film exposed at 70kV and automatically processed with Periomat (Durr) solutions. Both film brands appear to be adequate for clinical use.