For any disease to be treated, it has to be diagnosed efficiently. Digital imaging is an essential part of diagnosis that provides improved accuracy and precision. Digital X-rays have been used in dentistry for centuries to detect oral diseases, pathologies, or trauma.
Digital X-rays recorded by the dentist in Aliso Viejo, CA, help provide a detailed diagnosis of a cascade of dental problems, helping dentists treat the conditions promptly.
What is a digital X-ray?
A digital X-ray, or radiograph, is an advanced form of imaging that makes use of advanced electronic sensors to record images. These sensors have greatly replaced the conventional photographic films that require tedious procedures.
The images that are captured are converted to digital data immediately and are available for review within seconds.
What does a digital X-ray involve?
Digital X-rays utilize advanced technology wherein bursts of radiation beams are targeted at the area of concern. These beams penetrate through different layers of the body and form an image on a photographic film using digital sensors.
These sensors usually come in the form of active matrix flat panels made up of a detection layer over an active matrix array of thin film transistors and photodiodes. These sensors can successfully convert the image into digital form in real-time. This allows the dentist to view the results on a computer screen immediately.
What is the prime goal of digital X-rays?
Digital X-rays are essential diagnostic tools providing valuable information that is not visible to the naked eye during routine dental exams.
- Digital X-rays can help evaluate the:
- Tooth structure
- Root morphology
- Bone thickness
- Outcome of procedures like dental implants, root canal treatment, and bone grafting
- Digital X-rays can detect the presence of:
- Problems inside a tooth or below the gumline
- Bone loss
- Abscesses, cysts, and tumors
- Benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) lesions
- Interdental tooth decay
- Developmental abnormalities
Do digital X-rays offer any benefits?
Digital X-rays are the most preferred over conventional radiographs due to the following benefits:
- Provide superior precision and accuracy
- The rate of exposure can be adjusted accordingly
- The results can be viewed immediately
- The use of chemicals for developing film is greatly avoided
- Less time-consuming
Wrapping up
Digital X-rays produce significantly lower levels of radiation when compared to conventional X-rays. Digital radiographs are safe, faster, and more comfortable, in addition to avoiding the risk of waste and chemical disposal into the environment.