X-rays, photographs and scans are a vital aspect of dental diagnostic care. These records help track and determine effective care for dental longevity. The images expose the condition of the mouth – information a dentist cannot detect in a visual examination. Whether there is hidden tooth decay, abscesses, tumors or bone loss, X-rays can better determine the state of the tooth. They are a necessity one should get every six months to a year depending, on their overall health.
Digital dental X-rays, also called digital radiographs, have proven to be a fast, affordable alternative to traditional X-rays. Patients are often concerned about the amount of radiation received in a dental visit, especially for children, cancer patients or pregnant women. The benefit of digital X-rays is that they offer an 80 percent reduction in radiation. The production of the image is nearly instantaneous on a computer in the exam room, offering patients a time-efficient visit. Patients are covered with a lead shield to deflect the radiation scatter, although it is almost non-existent in new machines.
Compared with the large plastic film a technician puts inside your mouth for X-rays, the new digital radiographs are quite small and relatively comfortable.
Digital imaging offers a magnified view of what would otherwise be a small image in a traditional X-ray. These images are the most valuable tool for dentists to make effective diagnoses. The larger, clearer images of the tooth in digital radiographs allow dentists to better involve patients in diagnosis and treatment planning.
The acquisition of a digital imaging system for dentists is quite costly, but they will end up saving on the chemicals and film used in traditional X-rays. Digital radiographs make it easier for patients to send the pictures to an oral surgeon or their insurance for an electronic claim. Patients can also use these images in an electronic health vault (link to other blog post?) for their safekeeping in tracking health records.
When reviewing your dental insurance provider network, you might want to consider checking with various dentists in your local area to see if they offer digital imaging options.