Digital X-rays: why are they better?

Digital technology has changed the way we take and store pictures and much more. Digital technology has also revolutionized the arena of dental x-rays, and digital dental x–rays that use a technology known as radiovisiography (RVG) are fast becoming the norm in dental practice. They offer a host of advantages when compared to the conventional film-based x-rays.

Digital x-rays are very time-efficient, not requiring any lengthy processing for developing the image, which means no waiting before the x ray is ready to be assessed. The time gap from image capture to electronic display occurs within a few seconds, saving valuable chair time for dentists and their patients. This allows your local dentist the ease of evaluating and recording multiple images, if needed, within a short time. The magnified image projected on the display often helps patients “see” their radiographic status, which can help them appreciate that a tooth has deep decay. A better understanding of the problem helps patients become more able to participate in their treatment.

Another important benefit is that digital x-rays require significantly less radiation to be transferred, making them more healthy. Additionally, image characteristics can be modified for better analysis. This allows the dentist to magnify or angle images to see a specific area better, a definite aid in procedures that need a high level of accuracy, like dental implant placement or root canal treatment. They also allow much better comparison of subtle changes in images taken over time, such as in bone loss and density, which is crucial in assessing periodontal disease. Digital image storage is electronic, so is less cumbersome with quick accessing of previous images that have been archived systematically. Finally, digital x-rays don’t require any processing chemicals, which are hazardous and an environmental problem.