Akademik Veri Yönetim Sistemi
DENTOMAXILLOFACIAL RADIOLOGY, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
Objective: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of different rubber dam thicknesses on image quality in two exposure protocols. Methods: For the study, three rubber dam thicknesses were used: thin (0.14 mm), medium (0.18 mm), and heavy (0.22 mm). To mimic clinical conditions, a rubber dam was used in two layers. Exposure was performed using two different protocols: Protocol 1: 0.080 s exposure time, 65 kV, 7 mA, and Protocol 2: 0.160 s exposure time, 65 kV, 7 mA. For each thickness and protocol, 47 measurements were taken (n = 47). Radiographic images were exported in TIFF and analyzed using ImageJ software. The region of interest was determined, and signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), Michelson, and Weber contrast values were obtained. One-way ANOVA, post hoc Tukey, and intra-class correlation were used for statistical analysis. Results: No statistical difference was detected for protocol 1 between rubber dam thicknesses in SNR, CNR, Michelson, and Weber contrasts (p > 0.05). For protocol 2 (longer exposure time), heavy and medium thickness had lower SNR and CNR values than the thin one (p < 0.05). Michelson and Weber contrasts were statistically changed in different thicknesses of rubber dam (p < 0.05). ICC values were good and excellent. Conclusions: The thick rubber dam reduced SNR and CNR values; likewise, Michelson and Weber contrasts were changed, which pointed a reduced image quality and negatively affected object visibility. Short exposure times are recommended to maintain image quality in clinical situations requiring the use of a thick rubber dam.