Image-In This
~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.
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