Prevalence of Soft Tissue Calcifications in 5000 Digital Panoramic Radiographs

The interpretation of dental images extends beyond the evaluation of teeth and bone structures, allowing the identification of incidental findings with potential clinical relevance to patients' overall health. This study was conducted to investigate the prevalence of soft tissue calcifications in digital panoramic radiographs.

A retrospective, observational, epidemiological study was conducted using 5,000 digital panoramic radiographs of patients aged over 18. The study investigated the presence of tonsilloliths, sialoliths, carotid artery calcification, and ossified stylohyoid complex alterations. Associations with age, sex, and affected side were analysed. Four evaluators performed the assessments in three stages to enhance diagnostic accuracy. Statistical analysis included Student's t -test for independent samples (numerical variables) and Chi-square or Fisher's exact tests (categorical variables). A significance level of 5% ( P < 0.05) was adopted.

2202 ossified stylohyoid complex alterations (44.0%), 297 images (5.9%) suggestive of carotid artery calcification, 74 sialoliths (1.5%), and 28 tonsilloliths (0.6%) were observed, resulting in 2,601 changes. Multiple regression analysis was applied to patients presenting a positive condition for the studied variables; however, no statistical significance was revealed.

The high prevalence of incidental findings on panoramic radiographs highlights the importance of careful image interpretation for the early detection of conditions with potential local and systemic implications, reinforcing the need for integrated clinical management and appropriate referrals.