RESUMO
The combination of different processing solutions and dental film types can affect sensitometric properties [density and contrast]. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of 4 currently used Iranian processing solutions on the image quality of 2 types of dental films. In this experimental-laboratory study, a casted mandibular 2nd premolar along with a step wedge was used, to obtain 248 periapical radiographs during 10 working-days. All films were processed in four Iranian processing solutions: Teifsaz, Jahan, Farhan and Champion. Endodontic files were used to assess the diagnostic accuracy, Densitometric evaluation of the lead wedge radiographs was done at the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran using an Iranian digital software densitometry. Data were analyzed using the ANOVA test. The mean density and contrast of the Kodak images was significantly higher than the Agfa images [P=0.001], Films processed with Champion solution revealed the highest radiographic contrast [P=0.001]. No significant difference was found between the Agfa and Kodak films in determining the position of the endodontic file [P>0.05]. This study showed that the type of processing solution and film can significantly affect radiographic density and, contrast. Kodak films processed in Champion solution revealed the highest radiographic density among the studied materials