Digital Radiography – a Must in Dentistry
February 4, 2010 by Skype Record
Digital Radiography – a Must in Dentistry
Dr. Steve Thompson DDS
Paper x-rays and digital x-rays effectively provide diagnostic information. Though paper x-rays have been used traditionally, developments in recent times see dental professionals using the modern technology of ‘digital radiography’.
‘Digital Radiography’ involves the use of a small sensor, which is briefly placed in the mouth during the x-ray process. This sensor is like a tiny camera which is more sensitive to x-ray light than normal light.
The immediate benefits of Digi Images over conventional X-Rays:
- The captured image is displayed on the computer screen, saving time over the traditional paper x-rays.
- Digi radiographs also do not need any chemicals for developing, rendering them environmental friendly as well.
- Digi Radiographs also provide larger and far detailed images, comparatively. Modern computing software also permits extensive handling of the image – magnification, rotation, contrast adjustment and even color coding of the various element of the tooth for educational purposes.
- Due to the quick result & easy manipulation of the image, the patient-doctor communication is enhanced.
- Also these digital images make for easy and uncluttered filing – making accessing these digital records a breeze.
- Obviously, they also are free from wear or tear.
Patients worry about the radiation exposure they may face with every x-ray. Dentists are no different in this worry, and follow the ALARA principle to ensure minimal radiation as well. ALARA is an acronym for ‘As Low As Reasonably Achievable.’
Though digital radiography is a quick and easy method of diagnosis, the dentist does keep its use to the minimal to comply with ALARA & reduce the radiation exposure.
Over time with scientific developments, radiation exposure though xray has been reducing, let’s say 10 or 20 or even 30 years ago. This has been possible primarily because the amount of exposure per radiograph has decreased hugely over the last few decades.
Newer digital radiography is now available and it offers dentists excellent diagnostic results. It has also decreased radiation exposure by up to eighty percent.
The digital images are stored in the patient’s computer file and these can be easily printed or emailed for communication with the patients, specialists or even insurance companies. It is also easier to compare images from one appointment to the next to allow the dentist to notice changes that may occur over a period of time.
To summarize:
- Digital radiography improves diagnostic ability
- It is faster
- It decreases radiation exposure
- Improves communication between the dental professional and the patient
- Images can be easily stored and also easily accessible
- Software enables the images to be enhanced
In today’s modern age, most dental offices have begun using digital radiography in order to take advantage of all the features available with the newer technology. Do ensure that your dentist uses digital radiography too.
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About Author
I attended A&M, then graduated from Baylor College of Dentistry with honors in 1994. Dentistry has been a great fit for me, and I really enjoy being a dentist. I have a real passion for cosmetic and implant dentistry plus I enjoy helping people with TMJ pain, bad bites and age worn smiles. My goal for Imagecare Dental is to educate our patients, and for all our patients to receive expert dental care combined with outstanding customer service. We want to help you achieve optimal oral health!
* DDS, Received Doctor of Dental Surgery degree in 1994
* FAGD, Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry
* OBI Level 4 Certified
* Sustaining Member AACD
* Invisalign Certified
* Enteral Sedation Certified
* ZOOM2 Certified
* Completed over 50,000 Cosmetic Restorations
* Custom Smile Designer
* American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry
* Texas Dental Association
* International Association of Orthodontics
* Academy of Bioesthetic Dentistry
* American Dental Association
