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Digital Imaging
Just like the digital cameras many people use to take their photos, we
have converted (in 1999) to state-of-the-art digital imaging. Radiographs
(pictures made with x-rays) and photographs have always been diagnostic
tools of a dental practice and now they have greatly improved in more ways
than one. Here are some of the advantages we have noted during our
use of digital imaging:
- In the case of digital radiography, there is an 85 to 90% reduction in the
amount of radiation required to expose conventional films.
- A digital panoramic radiograph can actually be taken with about the
same radiation as two of the smaller films.
- The diagnostic quality of the radiographs (x-ray pictures) has improved
greatly due to the ability to modify, enhance and/or magnify any aspect of the images. Having
a better diagnosis allows us to make better treatment decisions.
- Storage (archiving) is much easier, loss is unheard of and back up
allows off-site storage of all the data.
- Both radiographs and photographs can easily be emailed to specialists,
making consultations (on your behalf) much more effective.
- Increased communication and understanding between dentist and patient
as the images are enlarged on operatory monitors.
- There are no chemicals
used to process the film. The result is that the clinic does not
have the acidic (vinegar-like) smell and there are no heavy metal (silver
processing salts) developing and processing solutions poured into the
sewage system. This
is a huge benefit for the environment.
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