Optical effects on dental X-rays can be mistaken for decay
A small evidence base suggests that image patterns can lead to false-positive diagnoses. The review rated the evidence as low to very low certainty.
Based on the published abstract. The full paper may contain additional methods, results and limitations.
The 30-second takeaway
The meta-analysis reported false-positive diagnoses of decay or fractures in approximately 13% of observations (60/464) involving optical effects. This is a result from the included studies, not a person's risk of a mistaken dental diagnosis. Large differences between studies and low evidence certainty make the estimate difficult to generalize.
Only a small group of studies qualified, and results varied substantially. Evidence certainty was low to very low; the abstract does not provide the populations and reading conditions needed to judge how closely the estimate matches routine care.
What the researchers examined
The review assessed triangular-shaped dark areas and the Mach band effect, optical patterns that may be mistaken for disease on dental radiographs. Eligible studies included clinical research and studies conducted in laboratory or specimen settings.
How the authors interpret the finding
The authors emphasize checking radiographic findings against a clinical examination. Their conclusion concerns interpreting images carefully; the abstract does not test whether a particular checking strategy reduces mistaken diagnoses or prevents unnecessary treatment.
The original publication
Radiographic artifacts in the diagnosis of dental caries: systematic review with meta-analysis.
Dioguardi M, Guerra C, Sovereto D et al.
Oral Radiol · 2026
- PubMed ID
- 41331196
- Record checked
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