Low radiation, increased diagnostic ability, instant viewing capability.
Digital X-rays: X-rays are necessary for a thorough dental examination because they allow our doctors to examine and identify dental conditions not readily visible to the naked eye. Bitewing x-rays are specifically used to see more detail between your teeth and below your gumline, while panoramic images allow your dentist to see more detail within your entire mouth and the surrounding bone. Once a digital x-ray is taken it can immediately be projected “larger than life” to a viewing monitor. Film x-rays, on the other hand, must be processed for 10 to 20 minutes in a chemical bath before they can be viewed on a 1×2-inch film.
At Crabtree Dental we utilize only digital radiography in our practice for the following reasons:
- The images are immediately available for viewing.
- Images are displayed in an enlarged format on a viewing monitor, so you can actively participate in your diagnosis.
- The contrast and density of a digital image can be adjusted for increased diagnostic ability.
- The quality of the digital image is reproducible, while traditional film image quality largely depends on the quality and strength of the processing chemicals used.
- A digital radiographic image can integrate with other technologies such as cavity detection software, which increases diagnostic ability.
- Digital images can be instantly delivered electronically to specialists involved in your dental care; film images, however, must be mailed. Should you need the care of a specialist this will speed up the delivery of your care.
- Images can be electronically submitted to your insurance company and will likely expedite your benefit payment.
- Digital images are environmentally friendly because harsh chemical solutions are not required for processing.
- Digital x-ray sensors require 80 to 90 percent less radiation than traditional film x-rays. A dental examination performed with digital x-rays is considered a “negligible dose” of radiation and should not be a source of concern to the patient.
3D X-ray and Imaging System: This x-ray system enables our staff to take three-dimensional (3D) x-ray images. While two-dimensional (2D) panoramic images are used to diagnose and treat many conditions including gum disease, impacted wisdom teeth, tooth and jaw development, and abnormal pathology, they lack viewable depth. With a 3D image, the dentist is able to see internal conditions that are hidden or distorted in a 2D view. This 3D imaging system also enables the dentist to rotate and view those images from any angle, which increases his diagnostic abilities. Having images in 3D is beneficial for nearly every dental procedure in which seeing all angles of the tooth and bone is important, but it is particularly beneficial when performing root canals and implants. Most general dental practices do not have the benefit of 3D technology in their offices and we are proud to offer this technology to our patients. It is another tool utilized in our practice to deliver exceptional dental care.
