In recent years, there have been various advancements in technology made within the field of dentistry. One of these advancements has been in improving x-ray diagnostics using digital technology. Digital x-rays use digital sensors to capture images of the teeth and roots, replacing the traditional photographic film that had previously been used.
How Digital X-Rays Work
Digital x-rays work by using a flat electronic pad or sensor that is placed in a patient’s mouth to capture the x-ray image. The sensor is connected to the xray machine with a thin wire. An x-ray beam is sent directly to the sensor, which records a highly detailed image of your teeth. The digital image is electronically sent to a computer where the image instantly appears on the screen. The image can then be either stored as an archive in a patients file and/or printed out.
Advantages of Digital X-Rays
Digital x-rays are much more time efficient than older forms of x-ray technology. Gone are the days where the patient and dentist had to sit and wait for chemical processing of film to view the results. After a digital x-ray is taken, the image is available almost instantly on a computer screen in the room.
This innovative digital technology makes transferring and sharing the x-ray images with other dental offices/doctors much easier and more time efficient. Instead of making copies of film and waiting a few days for the x-rays to arrive in the mail, a simple email with an attachment of the digital x-ray images can be sent within seconds. This allows for easier collaboration with specialized dentists, if necessary.
It is also much easier to enhance an x-ray image using the digital x-ray technology. The more detailed imagery allows both dentist and patient to get a closer, more in-depth look at details. This allows the dentist to make more accurate diagnosis and treat patients in a more efficient manner.
Are Digital X-Rays Safe?
Digital x-ray technology is among the safest technology for capturing oral x-ray imagery. The process requires significantly less radiation than traditional filmbased x-ray technology. If you have specific questions about the safety of digital x-rays, our Methuen dentists will be happy to answer your questions.
Of the various technological advancements in dental care, digital x-ray technology is perhaps one of the most exciting and beneficial to both dentist and patients alike.
