Getting X-rays done at the dentist used to be kind of scary — you know — the lead apron, the way the technician stepped about a mile away, that big lens in your face and biting on those sharp plastic film sleeves. Getting an X-ray with new digital technology is not only safer, easier and faster now, but it’s also kind of cool.
The new digital X-ray technology allows for nearly instant feedback. In a blink, the image appears on the monitor, looking just like an X-ray, but better and brighter. The technician can capture virtually any angle inside your mouth (without gagging you). The software allows the techs to improve the X-ray’s contrast and brightness to spot any evidence of tooth decay, cracked or weakened fillings, gum disease, improper alignment, and in children, the progress and position of emerging permanent teeth.
Many dentists are positioning the computer monitors so that they can review the image with their patients. Sitting in the chair, you can’t help but be a little fascinated by the high-tech view of your fillings, gums, or even how that bicuspid that always feels misplaced is actually out of alignment.
Digital X-rays are “green;” that is, they require no darkroom space or chemicals to process the image. Better, digital X-rays also emit 80 to 90 percent less radiation than conventional dental X-rays. The Health Physics Society says that most digital dental X-rays have among the lowest radiation dose of any radiologic procedure in the healing arts. In other words, you get more radiation in an afternoon at the beach.
However, not every independent dentist has made the conversion, which can be prohibitively pricey. Some companies have committed to the state-of-the-art technology, such as Western Dental Services. The California-based dental HMO converted all of its 260-plus offices to digital. The company’s chief dental director, Dr. Louis Amendola, D.D.S., says patients appreciate the speed and safety of the new technology.
“The immediate feedback that’s now possible has helped our patients to become more involved in their own dental health,” Dr. Amendola said. The dentists like it, too, he said, because digital radiology gives dentists more diagnostic tools and multiple options for displaying, sharing and storing X-rays between computers and networks. Now patients don’t have to wait for an X-ray to arrive by mail or messenger if they need a second opinion or must transfer their records.
Digital X-rays make dental exams faster, safer and greener. And though the exposure to radiation is minimal, don’t be surprised if most dentists still still cover you with the lead-filled apron and step outside the room. Old habits die hard.
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