Dental Imaging

There are many benefits to using dental imaging systems or digital dental X-ray machines. They allow dentists and patients to instantly view images on the computer with high resolution. Specialized tools allow you to filter, zoom, plan treatment, and predict outcomes more efficiently and effectively. With all this data available to patients as well, they can make better, more well-informed decisions about their dental health.

Digital images can be easily shared with other dental practitioners and insurance companies. They use less radiation than film images, which makes the imaging process safer for both patients and clinicians. They are also a more eco-friendly option because they do not use the processing chemicals of film images. Without a dark room, that space can be used for more productive exam and treatment areas.

We surprised at the number of dental practices still using film-based or analog dental imaging technology. There has never been a better time to make the move to digital as digital imaging requires less patient contact, manual processing, and risk of infection from cross-contamination than film systems.

Let’s take a quick look at some of the differing imaging technologies available today as well as what to consider when purchasing a digital dental X-ray machine.

Intraoral X-ray Sensors

These devices have replaced film X-rays in many modern dental practices. They are faster and easier for capturing bitewings, FMX series, and other intraoral images and require much less radiation than their film counterparts.

Digital Panoramic X-rays

Many of today’s digital dental X-ray machines for panoramic imaging include additional features like extraoral bitewings and TMJ projections. Today’s digital panoramic X-ray machines are designed to enhance practice efficiency and streamline diagnoses. Some digital panoramic models are upgradeable to cephalometric and cone beam imaging as well.

Dental Cone Beam Systems

Cone beam computed tomography, or CBCT imaging, is quickly becoming the standard of care for many dental and dental specialty practices. It allows practitioners and their patients to have the most comprehensive view of the anatomy with 3D imaging to aid in diagnoses, treatment planning, and communicating with the patient.

Phosphor Plate X-ray Systems

These allow for practices to use film equipment without upgrading to digital dental X-ray machines. Instead, they use re-usable plates to capture images, feed the plates into a machine that makes them digital, then wipe the plate clean to be used on the next scan. Due to their multiple touch points, these aren’t as easy to maintain infection control as compared to direct-digital imaging devices.

Consider Digital Dental X-Ray Machines

If your practice is still using traditional film or phosphor plate X-ray systems, we encourage you to consider the direct digital options. Search for a system that makes your existing imaging tasks more efficient but also allows you to add new options for diagnostics, patient education, and treatment planning. Calculate how often you will use the technology to determine your true return on investment.