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Digital Radiography Reveals Root Issues

Wouldn't it be nice if a dentist could somehow look painlessly into your mouth, clearly identify every external and internal anatomical structure, and accurately diagnose your dental problems…all within seconds and with minimal radiation exposure? And what if that information could be immediately translated into a large, clear, accurate image, allowing you and your dentist to discuss it together? This may sound too good to be true, but thanks to a relatively new dental imaging process called digital radiography, it’s real. Digital radiography’s technology improves and simplifies the way we care for our patients’ teeth, resulting in better dental evaluations and treatment decisions.

Reduced Radiation, Radical Results

Traditionally, dentists find out what’s going on inside your mouth by taking a series of x-rays, developing them in a darkroom full of chemicals, and then examining the resulting films on a special light board. This cumbersome process is entirely outmoded by digital radiography. Now, you simply relax in the dental chair while a tiny ‘sensor’ is positioned briefly inside your mouth. The sensor acts like a miniature VCR camera, except that its chip is sensitive to x-rays, not light. The result? For one, our patients are exposed to 50%-90% less radiation than with traditional x-ray techniques.

What’s more, a highly detailed image is almost instantaneously translated onto our computer screen, carrying with it all the conveniences of other digitized images: it can be rotated, magnified, adjusted for contrast, and even color-coded for educational purposes. Further, we can store it easily and efficiently in our computer files, eliminating paper files as well as image wear and tear. For insurance purposes, referrals, or patient education, it can be easily, inexpensively and faithfully reproduced any number of times.

Better Understanding, Better Decisions, Better Care

We’re convinced that digital radiography makes for fast and easy evaluation of even the most complex dental conditions. The instantaneous, clear computer screen image allows us to immediately discuss the findings with our patients. Together, we can examine the outer and inner structures and tissues of each tooth, as well as the surrounding roots, root canals, and gums. What may have previously been mysterious and frightening is suddenly rendered reasonable and non-threatening. On the spot, we’re able to clearly and simply explain all the steps of any recommended restoration procedures. And because it helps our patients clearly understand the root issues behind their dental health, we’re able to work together to determine the very best treatment options for each case.