Oral exams are an important part of maintaining the health of your mouth. However, there is only so much that can be seen with a visual inspection. At Ford Dental Group, we use X-rays to get a complete picture of a mouth. X-rays give us the ability to see between your teeth and under your gums. We utilize the latest X-ray technology – digital X-rays.
What Are Digital X-Rays?
Digital X-rays utilize electronics to capture your image and develop them. This is a major advancement over traditional X-ray technology, which relies on radiation for image capture. Taking your images is simple. We place an electronic sensor, which is hooked up to a computer, in your mouth. We then click a button on our computer to capture the picture. Within seconds of taking the image, it is displayed on the monitor.
Digital Storage
For years, all of your information, X-rays, and other images were stored in a physical file. As time went on, your file could become quite large. The risk of pages and images getting lost or damaged would increase. Today, all of your information, including your X-ray images, is stored in a digital folder. When we need to access an older X-ray image, all we have to do is click a few buttons, and it will appear on the screen.
Image Enhancement
With traditional X-rays, we were limited in what we could do with your images. Thanks to specialized software, we can manipulate your digital image in a variety of different ways. We pick out suspect areas and zoom in on them, and enhance them in the process. We can also change the display of the image from negative to black and white to color. All of these features allow us to see the smallest details of your mouth. We can diagnose issues in their earliest stages, and take action before the issues become something more serious.
Reduced Radiation
Traditional X-rays require radiation to capture images. For many dental patients, radiation exposure has raised concerns. Digital X-rays, on the other hand, capture images using electronic technology. With digital X-rays, your radiation exposure is reduced by up to 95%.
More Environmentally Friendly
Images taken with traditional X-ray technology need to be developed. To do this, special chemicals are needed. These chemicals are harmful to the environment. With digital X-rays, the images appear almost instantly on our computer screen. There is no need for development and no need for harsh chemical use. Our impact on the environment is greatly reduced.
Getting The Most Out Of Your Appointment
Developing images taken with traditional X-ray technology required us to go to a separate dark room, leaving you alone in the exam room for long periods of time. Your valuable appointment time was wasted. When we were able to get back to you with the developed images, the remainder of your appointment might feel rushed.
With digital X-rays, your images appear almost right away on our computer screen. We don’t have to leave the room at all. Your entire appointment is spent with you. We can help you to understand the image, your diagnosis, and what your treatment options are. We can also take the time to answer any questions you have. This way, you can get the most out of your appointment time.
With digital X-rays, we can provide you with a higher quality of care. For more information, call Ford Dental Group at (714) 409-6161 today.
