Recent advances in digital technologies have improved the way we take our x-rays (radiographs) at the dental office. Traditional x-rays were taken using film, much like the old style cameras. The new x-ray systems use either a thin sensor which is then processed using a special machine, or are connected directly to a computer and processed by software. These new systems offer benefits over the more traditional technologies.
A step forward for your safety
Everyone is much more health conscious these days. We're paying more attention to the foods we eat and the treatments we receive from health care providers. Dr. Bowes and Dr. Kiri recognize that people are worried about their yearly dental x-rays and the amount of radiation it exposes them to. While the traditional film x-rays have been shown to be quite safe, the newer digital x-rays reduce the amount of radiation required to approximately half that used by film.
A step forward in diagnostic ability
While traditional film still offers excellent picture resolution, it's overall size is quite small. That presents a problem as it makes early cavities harder to see. Digital x-rays are displayed on screen in a much larger size and can be enlarged considerably while maintaining their clarity. This is a significant benefit as early, hard to see cavities are now easily visualized. Anyone familiar with a smart phone knows that their photographs can be improved and edited to provide a better picture. The digital x-ray software allows us to alter the brightness, contrast and allow us to apply filters which all provide a more easily read x-ray so the need for re-takes of x-rays are minimized. This also aids the dentist is using as little radiation as possible by minimizing the overall number of x-rays we may need for you.
A step forward in comfort
While the original film x-rays were always fairly comfortable, everyone has experienced an x-ray that pinched the roof of your mouth or rubbed against your gums. The new x-ray systems either have a soft plastic disposable barrier sleeve, or are moulded in a rounded plastic which are significantly more comfortable in your mouth and kinder to your tissues.