The team at Janz Family Dental is happy to announce that we will be making the change from film to digital X-ray imaging technology at our dental clinic in Edmonton.
In the past, the impression technique was uncomfortable where the patient had to sit with a large rubber-like material in the mouth for 2-5 minutes. Digital moulds provide a smooth technique that produces a high-quality product. The process is safer, healthier, and more pleasant for the patient and dental staff. Let our experts take a moment to walk you through some of the many benefits that come with making the switch to digital radiography.
What is digital radiography?
Digital radiography equipment allows dentists to perform imaging functions without the use of any analog materials. This means that there’s no need for chemical film processing: digital X-rays can be viewed and evaluated by your dentist as soon as they’re taken. This streamlines the process and allows for multiple storage options for your scans. We’ll finally be able to do away with entire rooms filled with hard copies of patient scans.
The digital technique is more comfortable since it scans the teeth, which only requires a few minutes of the patient’s time. It also allows for the possibility to show the patient a 3D-impression of their teeth on a screen, right after the impression has been made. These digital records can be taken yearly to show patients changes that are happening in the mouth such as progression of gum recession, movement of teeth, etc.
How will it benefit the clinic?
Our new digital imaging equipment will allow our team to take all different types of dental X-rays with minimal changes to the daily workflow of our clinic. The main difference is that digital saves time. Common types of dental X-rays include:
- Intraoral X-rays: an image of the inside of the patient’s mouth. This gives dentists a clear picture of one portion of the teeth.
- Panoramic X-rays: provide the dentist with completeimage of a patient’s mouth. It’s great for mapping out implants and detecting future wisdom teeth.
- Cephalometric projections: a side view of the patient’s entire skull. Helps dentists examine the placement of teeth relative to the jaw and is often used when planning orthodontic treatments.
Digital radiography has numerous benefits over film radiography:
- Patients are exposed to significantly less radiation (up to 80% less!)
- Images can be viewed instantly on any computer screen, without any need for film processing
- Digital radiographs can easily be transferred to any other health care professional for referrals, second opinions, etc.
- A number of image enhancing options, such as brightness and contrast adjustment, are available to make X-rays clearer and easier to interpret.
If you’re looking for a children’s dentist in West Edmonton, give us a call at Janz Family Dental. Our friendly staff will ensure that all your dental work is taken care of quickly and comfortably. Call us today to schedule your next check-up.
