Digital X-Rays
At Smile Center Silicon Valley, we use X-rays as a tool to diagnose conditions that are not visible to the naked eye. They help us detect tooth decay, infections, bone loss, and other hidden issues. In the past, obtaining an X-ray required sitting in a small, dark room while the imaging machine took a picture of your mouth. It often involved biting down on a piece of plastic or cardboard to help position the film correctly.
Today, this process is simpler and faster thanks to digital X-rays. The pictures are taken with a specialized sensor and transmitted directly to a computer screen. We can then view the image instantly. We can zoom in for a more detailed look and adjust the contrast and color of the image as needed. We can also store the digital images in our computer system for future reference. Instead of just telling you what the problem is, we can show you the problem using digital technology.
The Advantages of Digital X-Rays
Traditional film X-rays require chemicals to develop and must be stored in a dark room until they’re ready to be viewed. This delay can sometimes compromise treatment. With digital X-rays, the images are available immediately. Additionally, patients are exposed to less radiation when compared to traditional film X-ray technologies. Finally, digital X-rays can be enlarged and enhanced to show a clearer image of the tooth’s structure, giving the dentist a better view of your condition.
When our dentist uses digital radiography, they can display images on a monitor screen beside you in the exam chair. That way, you can see for yourself what the problem is and the extent of the damage. The images can be easily stored for future reference and shared with other dental professionals as needed.
Are Digital X-Rays Safe?
Yes, digital X-rays are considered safe for patients. They are a modern advancement in dental imaging that offers several benefits compared to traditional film-based X-rays. Digital X-rays require significantly less radiation compared to traditional film X-rays. The digital imaging sensors in digital X-ray systems produce high-quality images with a fraction of the radiation dose. This reduced radiation exposure contributes to the safety of patients, especially when multiple X-rays are needed during a dental visit or over time.
With traditional film X-rays, retakes may be necessary if the image quality is compromised due to underexposure or other factors. This could result in additional radiation exposure. However, digital X-rays allow the dentist to review the image on the computer screen immediately. They can retake the image without additional radiation exposure if any issues are detected.
Digital X-rays are safe and valuable diagnostic toolsused in dentistry that provide high-quality images, reduced radiation exposure, and faster processing times. For the best dental care, visit Smile Center Silicon Valley at 877 W. FREMONT AVE, SUITE L3, Sunnyvale, CA 94087, or call (408) 245-7500.