While it’s true that digital x-rays have great picture quality – which is an important advantage – that’s not the only reason we choose to use digital x-rays for our patients at Wait Orthodontic Specialists. Digital x-rays have a number of advantages, all of which are aimed to make your experience better! Here’s what you need to know about how our orthodontists use digital x-rays and the advantages of modern x-rays:
 

What are x-rays used for?

Why are x-rays necessary in the first place? X-rays are taken so that our orthodontists can get a clear view of your teeth and the underlying bone structures. Without x-rays, we wouldn’t be able to see the roots of the teeth and structure of the jaw bones – which are fundamental in creating your personalized treatment plan. 
 

The Advantages of Digital X-rays 

1. Digital x-rays produce high-quality images. 

Digital x-ray images are clear, detailed and have great contrast. This aids your orthodontist in examining bone structures, teeth and gum tissue, spotting orthodontic problems and performing a comprehensive examination.  With digital x-ray images, our doctors can zoom in on images, zoom out or rotate the imaging if necessary to create a precise treatment plan. Traditional x-rays, on the other hand, are processed on film, which doesn’t allow for these image-enhancing tools.

2. Digital x-rays minimize radiation exposure.

Digital x-rays can reduce radiation exposure by more than 80% (compared to traditional radiography!) Digital x-ray machines are more sensitive than traditional x-ray machines, which requires significantly less radiation to create an image. It’s important that we minimize radiation exposure, as it can damage DNA in our cells and increase the risk of various cancers. Digital x-ray radiation dose is minimal and not considered dangerous to health. 

3. Digital x-rays allow for convenient electronic storage.

Digital x-rays are easy to store, access and transfer (if necessary.) Electronic storage is a lot more convenient than physical storage, and it reduces the chances of x-rays being lost or misplaced. If you ever need your x-rays sent to your dentist or other practitioner, we can deliver them electronically in only a few minutes!

4. Digital x-rays are environmentally friendly.

Digital imaging is kinder to the environment, because it eliminates unnecessary chemicals and waste from traditional x-rays film processing. To process the x-ray image, a number of chemicals are washed over the film. These chemicals then become toxic waste, which destroys habitats in the environment.  Digital x-rays don’t require chemicals or paper materials to process images. Instead, they’re downloaded to our database, stored electronically and printed only if necessary.

5. Staying modern and up-to-date is important to us.

We pride ourselves on being a modern practice with experienced orthodontists who use advanced techniques and technologies. We’re always looking for new ways to improve our patient experience and make the treatment process more comfortable and efficient! Throughout all of our treatments and technologies, we choose to use the best for our patients.   

Still have questions about digital x-rays?

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! We are an experienced family orthodontist, here to guide you through your treatment process – from your very first visit to your last appointment.  If you’re looking for a top orthodontist in Scottsdale or Fountain Hills, AZ, we’d love to meet you! Request a complimentary exam for you or your child today.