Digital radiography is a type of X-ray imaging in which the images are transposed digitally onto computers or other devices rather than being developed onto film. Instead of using electromagnetic radiation and chemical processing to record an X-ray onto film, digital versions use digital sensors to record images onto an image capture device, which then creates a digital image file.

This file can then be used by medical staff members, and the file can be attached to a patient’s medical notes for future reference. It can be printed to paper or slide material so can be used the same as any standard X-ray, but without as much risk and usually at lower overall cost. The initial expenses with a digital system can be immense, but over time they usually pay for themselves. These sorts of imaging devices are most commonly seen in hospitals, specialist medical practices, and dental offices. Dental imaging requires a slightly different process but the technology and basic concept are the same.

Digital dental X-rays are used by your dentist to take images of your mouth, including tooth structure and your jaw bones. In order to take the digital images, your dentist – or a dental technician – will place a small sensor in your mouth, carefully positioned. This small sensor is connected to the processing computer by a very thin wire.

Your dentist or the dental tech inputs the command for the dental X-ray machine to send a X-ray through your teeth and into the sensor, effectively taking a photo of your tooth or teeth. The sensor captures the resulting image and sends it through the wire to the computer. Then your dentist will reposition the sensor and take additional digital X-rays until all of your teeth have been X-rayed.

With digital dental X-rays, your dentist or other dental professional is able to immediately see your teeth and jaw bones. This means that assessment and diagnosis is virtually instantaneous.

Digital Dental X-Rays – A Great Advance

Many dentists are now using digital dental X-rays, which have many benefits for you, as the patient. Among some of the many benefits for you, are:
1. A reduction in the amount of radiation you are exposed to during the X-ray process.
2. No need for dental film or processing chemicals in order for your dentist to be able to see the images.
3. An almost instantaneous ability to see the X-ray images, which means, if you’re in pain, you’re not waiting for the images to be processed and then viewed.
4. Your dentist is able to use color contrast in viewing and manipulating the X-ray image, in order to see all of the details in the image.