Digital Dental X-Rays Provide Many Advantages for our Patients
If you had dental x-rays done in our office recently, you probably noticed that we are using digital radiography. This advancement in dental radiology produces less radiation than traditional film x-rays and has other advantages. Below you’ll learn why we are happy to have made the switch for our patients’ and staff’s safety and convenience.
What are Digital Dental X-Rays?
Digital radiography uses sensors instead of film to produce digital images. In dental digital radiography, small sensors are placed in the patient’s mouth. These sensors are connected to a computer that records a highly-detailed image of the teeth, gums, and jaw. We can instantly view the image and proceed with treatment faster than we could with standard x-rays.
Advantages of Digital X-Rays in Dentistry
There are several benefits to using digital x-rays in our dental practice.
- Comfort – the sensors are small and much more comfortable for our patients than the awkward paper tabs placed in the mouth during traditional dental x-rays.
- Short wait time – results are instantaneous, so diagnosis is faster
- High accuracy – digital imaging technology enables better contrast and improved visualization
- Less waste – digital x-rays produce no environmental waste
- Easily stored – your dental team can quickly access past digital x-ray files and transfer dental records easily
- Lower radiation – digital dental radiography requires a 90% lower dose of radiation than traditional film x-rays
How Much Radiation is in Digital Dental X-Rays?
Digital dental radiography is very safe. The dose of radiation in a digital dental x-ray is .005 Millisieverts, which is lower than the average radiation a person receives on a typical day. While the radiation exposure from digital x-rays is minimal, we still use a lead apron for added safety
Check out this infographic from Starbrite Dental to compare the radiation in dental digital x-rays with other common activities.
Image: Starbrite Dental
Digital Dental X-Rays and Pregnancy
During pregnancy, we advise that you continue your regular dental checkups. You may be concerned about your unborn child’s exposure to radiation. The low level of exposure during digital dental radiography is safe for the mother and baby.
Digital Dental X-Rays at Ultimate Smile Design
The team at Ultimate Smile Design is committed to your health and safety. Adding digital radiography to our diagnostic tools is just one way we keep advancing our treatment procedures to provide the best dental care to our patients. If you have any questions, please ask during your next visit. We look forward to seeing you soon!