Digital Radiography

Digital radiography (digital x-ray) is the latest technology used to take dental radiographs. This technique uses an electronic sensor (instead of x-ray film) that captures and stores the digital image on a computer. This image can be instantly viewed and enlarged helping the dentist and dental hygienists detect problems easier. Digital x-rays reduce radiation 80-90% compared to the already low exposure of traditional dental radiographs.

Dental radiographs are essential, preventative, diagnostic tools that provide valuable information not visible during a regular dental exam. Dentists and dental hygienists use this information to safely and accurately detect hidden dental abnormalities and complete an accurate treatment plan. Without radiographs, problem areas may go undetected.

Dental technology has advanced over the years to deliver patients with care that is comfortable, painless and less time-consuming. Previously, while old traditional X-ray techniques were being used, there used to crop many issues related to waiting time, preparation time (wait time for the film to be developed), environmental concerns and so on. Digital radiography has therefore truly revolutionized the technique of dental X-rays and also the practice of professional dentists.

Other Technologies

CEREC
Invisalign
CBCT (3D X-Rays)
3D Guided Implant Surgery
Laser Dentistry
3D Printing
Digital Radiography
Sterilization

How does Digital Radiography Work?

The process of digital radiography is quite similar to that of traditional dental X-rays. In digital radiography, a sensor is inserted into your mouth which aids in capturing the images of your teeth. Here lies the difference between old school X-rays and digital X-rays. Although it looks like the film used for traditional X-rays, the digital sensor is an electronic device connected to a computer. The device captures the images and then projects them on a screen instantly for both you and your dentist to view.

Digital X-rays have a lot of virtues to harp upon. Some of them have been listed in this article. Next time you walk in for a dental X-Ray, you need not really panic about its consequences as these are completely safe and without health hazards.

7 Remarkable Benefits of Digital Dental X-Rays

Lesser Radiation – Digital X-Rays are known to use 90% less radiation than traditional X-Rays
Easier Dental Appointments – No amount of preparation time is needed.
Much higher Quality Images – The images can be blown up to any size for your dentist to accurately look for issues if any.
Transferring Dental Records Immediately – Since in the digitized form, therefore, they can be instantly sent to any other specialty office for further reference, within seconds.
Environmental Friendly – Digital radiography does not have to use any chemicals for developing the film.
The Complete Picture is Available – This feature typically ensures that you obtain the best diagnosis possible.
Immediate Viewing – Digital radiography allows real-time viewing of your oral cavity. With much lesser radiation exposure, this is a unique advantage.

In short, Film x-rays were invented as early as 1895 which is over 125 years ago. Technology has come a very long way since that era and film x-rays are now quite an antique practice.

Although Film x-ray technology costs less than digital x-ray technology, yet, long-term exposure to film x-rays can be harmful. It affects the patient’s overall dental health due to the increased amounts of radiation that are needed to expose these types of films. Most modern dental offices have by now switched over to this digitized form as it ensures –

A more than 90% less radiation
Less discomfort
Detecting problems sooner
Less time in the chair

The qualities of service, shorter time consumed, and better access to the information concerned with their own dental health, are some of the factors that matter a lot to patients!

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"I have been a patient of Dr. Yates at Norwich Aesthetic Dentistry for about a year. My experience up until today had been for cleanings. When I found out I needed a crown I was initially a bit apprehensive. I don't know why I was worried. Dr. Yates and his assistant Valerie were fabulous. Dr. Yates really took the time to look at the tooth that needed work and expertly fashioned an impressive crown. He was meticulous in its crafting as well as its fitting and made sure that my bite felt as natural as it had always felt. I walked out of the office feeling like a million bucks.

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