The Wonderful World of X-Rays

The X-Ray was first discovered in 1895 by German physicist Wilhelm Roentgen. Despite technological advances, medical disasters leading to serious illness and injury, and the eventual discovery of the long-term effects of radiation, doctors and dentists have been using x-rays ever since. The word radiation tends to scare people, but without the use of x-rays, doctors and dentists would be unable to detect problem areas beneath the surface of our skin and teeth that we can’t see. Despite its intrinsic value in the world of dentistry, it’s about time this archaic technique got a face-lift!

X-Rays are Going Digital

While the dentistry world has largely resisted the peer pressure of going digital, the advantages of digital technology far outweigh the disadvantages, especially when it comes to digital radiography. As we approach the end of the second decade of this new century, there’s no denying that digital is the way of the future. The advantages of switching to digital radiography are:

• Reduced exposure to radiation: while traditional x-ray machines already have a low radiation output, digital x-rays produce significantly smaller levels, making it much healthier for the patient.
• Better comfort for the patient: digital x-rays are taken in a fraction of the time
• Safer on the environment: since the use of harsh film chemicals is eradicated, there is less harmful waste.
• Better and faster imaging: unlike x-ray films, digital images are instantly available and can be zoomed in for a better view of problem areas.

Digital X-Ray Machines We Like

• Carestream DR Systems: the company offers a wide range of products, many of which can be retrofitted to your existing machine.
• Fujifilm: This household brand sells different digital x-ray machines catered to private practices. Check out their wireless machine here.

Interested in learning more about our x-ray products or want to explore what digital solutions we have to offer? Visit Dental Brands today and take a look at our online catalog.

Sources:

http://www.dentalcenter-in.com/teeth-bones-history-x-rays/

http://www.morrisdentalclinic.com/advanced-technology/digital-x-rays/