What are the benefits of digital x-rays?

Radiographs, or x-rays, are important tools in dentistry. X-rays offer the dentist a birds-eye view of tooth surfaces that might otherwise be inaccessible. As a result, x-rays are frequently used in diagnosing dental problems.

Although dentists use x-rays to identify concerns such as tooth decay, abscesses or malocclusions, patients sometimes have concerns about exposure to radiation. New technology that facilitates digital x-rays helps to address those concerns. With digital x-rays, lower levels of radiation can produce the same quality of image. Therefore, the patient has less radiation exposure.

Efficiency is another advantage offered by digital x-rays. The images are available as soon as they are downloaded to the computer, so the dentist does not need to wait for film to develop in order to view the x-rays.

Digital x-rays are stored as computer files, so there’s no need to haul clunky films along when your dentist refers you to a specialist. You can take the files on a thumb drive, or your dentist may even be able to email them to another dental practitioner.

Dentists and their staff members also benefit from digital radiography, as it eliminates the need for them to be exposed to the harmful chemicals involved in developing x-rays.

Digital x-rays can be used to capture the bitewing x-rays that patients often get on an annual basis, as well as panoramic x-rays that provide a view of the entire jaw. Although earlier versions of digital x-rays did not have the same resolution as traditional x-rays, technological advances have corrected that problem. Now, digital x-rays can take the place of the traditional process in virtually any dentist’s office that has the necessary hardware and software.

Many dentists in Dallas County have upgraded the technology in their offices and are now providing digital x-rays. In fact, a significant portion of the best dentists in DFW are offering digital radiography, so you may be able to take advantage of the technology at your next appointment.