Once upon a time, dental X-rays were a cumbersome process that involved film, chemicals, and darkrooms. After taking the X-ray, dentists had to wait for the film to develop before they could examine it on a lightbox. Sharing these images with other professionals meant making physical copies of the films and sending them off.
With digital radiography, dentists can now capture high-quality images of your teeth and jaws electronically. Instead of film, sensors are used to convert X-ray energy into digital images. These sensors are more sensitive to X-rays than traditional film, which means patients get exposed to significantly less radiation during the procedure.
Digital radiography offers several benefits over traditional methods. Firstly, it provides greater clarity and detail in images, enabling dentists to spot potential issues like cavities or gum disease earlier and more accurately. Secondly, digital radiography streamlines the process of providing care. Unlike with traditional X-rays, there's no waiting for films to develop; instead, advanced software instantly integrates sensor information to generate a clear digital image for evaluation.
Another advantage of digital radiography is its eco-friendliness. Unlike traditional X-rays, which require individual film packets and harmful chemicals for processing, digital radiography produces no waste from disposing of old films. This makes it a win-win solution for both your oral health and the environment!
At the office of Steven R. Feigelson, DDS, we believe in providing the highest level of care to our patients. If you have any questions or concerns about digital radiography, don't hesitate to ask our friendly dental team—they're here to help!
