Scott Siegel MD DDS

Clock Tower Dental Associates

516-352-1000

110 New Hyde Park Road
 Franklin Square, NY 11010

Digital Imaging

Digital imaging, or digital radiography, is a valuable diagnostic tool frequently used in dentistry, as well as other disciplines. It is an innovative technique that uses a computer to efficiently manipulate and store X-ray images. Using this technology provides immediate results, readily available for sharing and discussion with patients and with other medical or dental professionals.

Uses of Digital Imaging

Since X-rays are always a part of comprehensive preventative and curative dental treatment, digital imaging is especially helpful in this field. As an objective means of delivering visual information, digital imaging assists in:

  • Detecting cavities
  • Implementing cosmetic treatments such as tooth whitening
  • Evaluating results of treatments for plaque and gingivitis
  • Measuring for endodontic procedures
  • Measuring for surgical implants

Digital imaging is also important and effective in tracking the progress of orthodontic treatment.

Benefits of Digital Imaging

X-rays have long been considered an important part of dental care. The new technology that enables dentists to use digital X-rays has several advantages over traditional X-rays. These include:

  • Immediate diagnostic results
  • Reduced radiation exposure
  • Electronic storage of data
  • High quality image production

While exposure to dental X-rays has generally been considered safe, digital X-rays reduce the patient's radiation exposure by more than 50 percent.

The accelerated speed of the digital process, in which the need for a darkroom and chemical processing is unnecessary, is especially important during surgical procedures when time is of the essence. When digital X-rays are taken, usable images are available within seconds, rather than minutes.

Additional Resources