Why are Digital Dental X-rays Better Than Film?

I came across answer.yahoo and found out some answers related to this question, "Why are Digital Dental X-rays Better Than Film?" Here are some of the inputs from professional dentists and registered dental hygienist. Check this:

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X-rays allow us to see the spaces in between teeth, underneath crowns and fillings, and to check the bone levels underneath the gum line. Occasionally a specific tooth needs to be investigated for decay or infections with another X-ray. Our clinicians will determine how often your X-rays need to be taken.

The digital dental X-ray system is more sensitive than conventional X-ray film systems, so your exposure to X-rays is cut by as much as 90 percent. The large, colour-enhanced image is displayed on a computer which gives both our clinicians and patients a clearer picture of teeth, bone and surrounding oral structures.

Digital X-rays have less of an impact on the environment. There are no used photo chemicals or lead films to dispose of. Because there's no time wasted waiting for films to be developed, your appointments take less time and it's fun to watch this system work! Most of our patients are amazed at how quick and easy the process is.

With better resolution, dramatically reduced radiation to the patient and the ability to zoom into parts of the image, digital dental X-ray is friendlier to our patients, and to the clinician. In addition to this, digital X-rays provide the ability to archive in original excellent quality, meaning that we can compare current X-rays to previous X-rays, and to send a perfect digital copy to specialists if the need arises.

Source: Greg Dougall Dental gdougalldental.com.au

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You get less radiation and they are able to see the film more clearly. Because it's linked to a computer system they can change the contrast, measure bone level, clarify the image, diagnose more accurately, the list is endless. Digital x-rays are much better for you and them. You should be proud that your office is technologically advancing

Source: RDH, B.S (Registered Dental Hygienist

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Digital xrays will expose the patient to less radiation and will allow the person taking the xrays to see them immediatly.

Source: Ronswife (Certified dental assistant)

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There are five major reasons (in order of importance)

1.) *Less radiation exposure for the patient*,

2.) Better images for diagnosing,

3.) Earth friendly: no more hazardous chemicals generated during processing.

4.) Faster imaging,

5.) Real time worldwide electronic portability and accessibility with no degradation of image.

Glad your dentist made this commitment. It's a big deal to change over the office. Obviously s/he feels patient safety and health is important.

Source: Rayen | Another digital dentist

Source: answers.yahoo.com

Why Most of the Dentist in Bangalore are asking to adopt Digital X-rays?

Here's a news I got from dnaindia.com. One of the dentist in Bangalore said “One such practice is that we are asking them to adopt digital X-rays. Many chemicals are used in developing traditional X-rays, and even the plastic sheets on which those X-rays are printed, are non-degradable. Digital X-rays can be transferred to a computer and later to a CD for future use. They can also be e-mailed,”

Read the complete story below:


Dentists vow to go green to keep your teeth white

Dentists in Bangalore city have vowed to go green. They have started a go-green campaign to make dental clinics eco-friendly.

“We are aiming to promote the concept of green dentistry. There are many practices in this profession that need to be changed to achieve this goal. The theme of the campaign is ‘good for you and for the earth’,” said Dr Asish Shetty, professor, Bangalore Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital. He was talking on the sidelines of Rotary Marathon 2010, a workshop organised by the Bangalore Dental Association on Tuesday. The green dentist concept will touch all fields of the profession —from conserving water and electricity to avoiding use of chemicals that are harmful to the environment.

“The amount of water wasted by a person while brushing will come up to 90 glasses, approximately. We need to bring down such losses. If we replace spotlights we use in clinics with CLF bulbs we can save lots of energy. We also need to stop practices like silver filling of root canals. The chemicals used in silver filling are also damaging to the environment. We are using the technology as the alternatives are highly expensive. If we can do without such practices, it will do lots of good for humanity,” he said.

Dentists across the city are being made aware of the need to adopt eco-friendly methods as part of the campaign. “One such practice is that we are asking them to adopt digital X-rays. Many chemicals are used in developing traditional X-rays, and even the plastic sheets on which those X-rays are printed, are non-degradable. Digital X-rays can be transferred to a computer and later to a CD for future use. They can also be e-mailed,” said Swaria Rao, director, Bangalore Institute of Dental Sciences and Hospital.

Dentists participating in the go-green campaign will be given badges. “The concept behind the badges is that they will help promote the idea even among the patients. When they go to hospitals wearing the badges, patient will enquire about them, which will further spread our message,” said Dr Rao.

“Patients also play a vital role in such ventures. A toothbrush which can be used for four months is thrown away by people in just three weeks. Such practices should also be changed,” she added.

Published: Wednesday, Sep 15, 2010, 10:01 IST |By Arun Dev | Place: Bangalore | Agency: DNA

source: http://www.dnaindia.com

Digital X-Ray Technology - An Owner's Perspective

By Terry L. Myers, DDS, FAGD

In 2006, 735 Dental Economics® subscribers were polled about various aspects of dental practice, including their aspirations for new technology. Dentists rated radiography equipment as the highest priority in the basic equipment investment technology category. At the time, 29% of the respondents were planning to add a digital system in the next two years, and a surprising 41% responded that they had already implemented a digital radiography system.

Since that time, other surveys have echoed these statistics, with technology taking an even more important role in the dental practice. Additionally, research and development in digital radiography continues to make this a technology that counts both clinically and financially. In the past, I have been an outspoken advocate for imaging, but with so many dentists yet to adopt the digital-office lifestyle, it's worth sharing again.

While every office has its own priorities, these are the top three benefits of digital X-ray technology that have enriched life around the office for me, my staff, and my patients.

More than meets the eye » Digital X-rays are as clear and detailed as any conventional film, and the digital format offers choices. There's really not much chance for education to occur with a 1" by 1½" piece of film. However, education with digital X-rays is phenomenal. Images are the size of the computer monitor. If I want to see different perspectives, I can magnify, zoom in, change color and contrast, draw on, and point out my concerns with a mouse click until I am absolutely sure that the patient sees the situation from my viewpoint and is confident in my assessment. Innovations in digital technology just keep getting better. Images taken with the DEXIS Platinum sensor that I recently obtained combine all sorts of technology to bring out clarity in even hard-to-see details.

More time for patients » Digital X-rays are faster than film. For example, my system can capture vertical or horizontal bitewings and periapicals with a single sensor – without changing film or sensors. My assistant can take an FMX in about five minutes. When my assistants are on the move, the sensor moves with them; the direct USB connection allows quick and easy transport between treatment rooms. With digital X-rays literally at my fingertips from any office computer or even from home, I can securely pull up images and records for an informed decision. Try doing that with film.

What's best for diagnosis and patient education?


It's just more practical » With all the attributes of digital radiography, clinicians often forget the more practical side of producing X-rays – the equipment that produces the X-rays. The processor is a high-maintenance piece of equipment. Mechanical parts break down or start slipping, and then it has to be sent out for repair, so you have to get a spare or a loaner. Besides, it is not practical for assistants to spend time developing film or cleaning the processor when they could be caring for patients.

While these are my top three benefits, digital radiography also brings a sense of cohesiveness to all of the office processes. When integrated with a digital practice-management system, digital image files can be stored with treatment notes and records, appointments, and insurance information – all in one organized, uncluttered space.

While technology can touch every aspect of the office these days, keep in mind that the X-ray is the first image that patients see, and as such can establish your image as a technology-savvy dentist.

For more on this topic, go to www.dentaleconomics.com and search using the following key words: dental technology, digital imaging, X-ray, dental radiography, diagnosis, Dr. Terry L. Myers.

Dr. Terry L. Myers is a fellow in the Academy of General Dentistry and a member of the Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry and the Dental Sleep Disorder Society. He has a private practice in Belton, Mo.

Source: http://www.dentaleconomics.com

Introducing the Gendex GXCB-500 Cone Beam 3-D Imaging System

Another innovation of Cone Beam 3D Imaging System. Introducing the Gendex Dental Systems: GXCB-500 Cone Beam 3-D Imaging System.




Video source: http://www.dentalcompare.com/video_view.asp?videoid=242


Video Source: http://dentalcompare.com/details/9106/GXCB-500-Cone-Beam-3-D-Imaging-System.html

General Information

Vendor		Gendex Dental Systems
Item		GXCB-500 Cone Beam 3-D Imaging System
Product Number		GXCB500
Warranty		Inquire
Focal Spot		0.5
Footprint		48 inches wide x 46 inches deep
Scan Time		8.9 sec (.3 and .4 voxel, Standard/EDS Mode) 23 sec (.125, .2 and .25 voxel, Standard Mode)
Installation Included		Yes
Patient Positioning		Seated
Primary Reconstruction Time		<>
Volume Reconstruction		Yes
Panoramic Reconstruction		Yes
Cephalo Reconstruction		Inquire
DICOM Export		Yes (DICOM 3 Compatible)
Plate Dimensions		13 x 13 cm
Image Detector		Amorphous Silicon Flat Panel
Software OS		Inquire
Included Software		i-CAT Vision™
Gray Scale		14 bit
Voxel Size (Slice Thickness)		.4, .3, .25, .2, .125
Other Included Items		Traditional Pan imaging plus Cone Beam 3-D
Additional Options		Inquire
Training Included		Inquire

Gendex offers the GXCB-500, an affordable Cone Beam 3-D imaging system powered by industry-leading i-CAT technology. Unique to the GXCB-500 is a ‘medium’ scan area of one or both arches that can extend to encompass the TMJ area, making the system a powerful diagnostic and treatment-planning tool for implant planning, TMJ analysis, and a variety of surgical procedures. The GXCB-500’s Amorphous Silicon Flat Panel sensor yields accurate, highly detailed images at one of the fastest scan and reconstruction rates in the industry. Adding to its value, the system also serves as a traditional 2-D digital panoramic without changing sensors.

Source: HERE

Digital Dental Radiography Review: The DEXIS Digital Diagnostic System

Here's an article by Andrew W. Chin, DDS about digital radiography.

The DEXIS Digital Diagnostic System
By Andrew W. Chin, DDS

Digital radiography is not new to dentistry. It has been in use for over 10 years, and is only becoming more popular and mainstream. There are many companies to choose from. I believe that the DEXIS system is one of the better digital radiography systems on the market today. In general, all digital radiographic systems will reduce the radiation exposure to your patients by about 30-40%. They also reduce the chemicals and raw material waste that go along with traditional radiographs. The quality of digital radiography was always the question, as with traditional photography and digital photography. However, as with digital photographs, digital radiography is getting better (if not surpassing) the traditional films, as our technology improves.

The DEXIS Digital Diagnostic system has been on the market since nearly the beginning of digital radiography. In those years it became the first company to have its digital radiography system receive the American Dental Association Seal of Approval when it was admitted into the ADA Acceptance Program. Recently, DEXIS received the Reality Magazines five-star award for outstanding quality in a digital radiography system. These awards only confirm what I have known through the years working with the system.

The DEXIS hardware is very unique. Most other systems have multiple-sized sensors. The DEXIS system has only one size and the corners are rounded for comfort. Although it is one of the thicker sensors on the market, the rounded corners, which other systems do not have, make a significant difference in patient comfort. Many gaggers have even said that the sensors are much more comfortable and create less of a gag reflex. The sensor and its hardware are easily transferred to adjacent rooms and computers. If your operatories are not networked, the unit can be used on a laptop. The sensor is the weakness of all digital radiograph systems due to its mobility and small fragile size. DEXIS is no different in this respect.

The sensor costs around $6,000 to replace, and about half that if you buy the insurance program and software support. This will run you a yearly fee of about $1,300-$1,800. You can weigh the costs and benefits of not buying the maintenance program. Regardless of what you choose, your assistants will need to treat the sensor with great care.

The entire office will go through a training program provided by the company. The learning curve is fairly fast and not too complex, especially if you are familiar with computers. The DEXIS radiographic system has some excellent clinical features that will improve your clinical diagnosis and efficiency. The actual radiograph will be instantaneous after the radiation has been detected. This image can then be enlarged to fill your monitor, magnified at specific areas, or the resolution can be adjusted at the click of a mouse. There are many other bells and whistles that I do not use, but the most useful feature is something they called ClearVu. This feature will greatly enhance your clinical diagnosis and be more accurate in finding decay or other pathology. Lastly, the DEXIS system has very convenient measuring tools for your endodontic and implant procedures. With so many features, the DEXIS system will help educate your patients and you will see your treatment plans increase in acceptance.

Cost will always be a factor in these types of high tech equipment. The entire system will run over $10,000, and don’t forget those yearly maintenance costs. The DEXIS system will have other costs in bridging software if you want/need to integrate it with your practice management software. I have integrated it with mine and have had no complications. Even with these costs the system will save you time and will make you much more efficient. Ultimately you will produce more because of the increased efficiency and the ease of presenting your treatment plan by educating patients with the DEXIS system.

DEXIS is the most highly awarded digital X-ray system, well-known for unique features like "One-Click FMS” and ClearVU™ image enhancement. The new DEXIS Platinum Sensor with PureImage™ technology has three distinct advantages:

1. A smart design that places the electronics on the sensor’s back so the active imaging area is almost 100% of the total sensor size.
2. An advanced ergonomic design featuring four rounded corners, a slim profile, and a seamless casing, allowing precise sensor placement while assuring optimal patient comfort.
3. A patented cord placement that allows for vertical AND horizontal bitewings and all peripherals with a single sensor, thus eliminating the cost and inconvenience of multiple sensors of different sizes.

DEXIS features a direct USB connection, with no controllers or docking stations. DEXIS also offers easy integration with practice management programs, digital pan systems, cameras, and scanners allowing the clinician to capture, store, and access all X-ray and camera images through one convenient Imaging Hub.

For more information about DEXIS product check here

Article Source: http://www.dentalcompare.com/review.asp?rid=10