X-rays are one of the most important tools a dentist has. They can reveal many problems with the teeth that are not visible to the naked eye, and can track the development of teeth in children that have not yet emerged. Decay on the inside of the tooth, or in a place that is difficult to see, can be easily spotted on an X-ray. X-rays can also look at the bone structure of the face and jaw to determine if there are problems with joint alignment or other issues with the bones of the face.
A New X-Ray Technique: Digital X-Rays
Digital X-rays are becoming more and more common due to numerous advantages over traditional X-rays. Digital X-rays use the same type of radiation as traditional X-rays, but instead of creating an image that must be developed on X-ray film, digital X-ray machines create the image on a special pad that is instantly translated into a digital file. This file is then saved onto a computer where it can be looked at in detail, enlarged, enhanced, or even compared to older pictures.
Advantages of Digital X-Ray
Digital X-rays provide several advantages over traditional X-rays that can help your dentist more accurately diagnose problems with your teeth. The dentist can also more easily and accurately compare current X-rays with older ones so that he or she can spot any irregularities or unexpected changes. Digital X-rays are compared with a digital process called subtraction radiography. In this process, elements that are the same between pictures is subtracted, leaving only the differing elements behind. This makes irregularities, changes or problems stand out clearly for easy evaluation.
Other advantages include overall portability. Instead of having to make expensive copies of X-ray films, records can be sent digitally to another doctor, dentist, or oral surgeon. This can greatly speed up the process of diagnosis and treatment.
If you would like to find out more about how digital X-rays can help you maintain your dental health, please contact a dentist in Las Colinas.