Digital Radiography in Dentistry- A reform for Better

A common myth, that is time involved and  fear associated with accepting dental treatment, are days of the past with changes in technology. Modern technology has changed the dentistry to a much smoother and comfortable procedure. Dentistry without proper and advanced technology is tiresome, painful and less efficient both for patient and dentist.  

There are numerous metamorphoses in dentistry, one which is most frequently and a useful aid in diagnosing is radiography. We all have come across dental issues and might have come across the conventional film based radiography/X-rays, but presently the conventional films are being replaced by digitized images.

Digital radiography are one of the newest X-ray techniques. Standard X-ray film is replaced with a flat electronic pad or sensor. The image goes into a computer, where it can be viewed on a screen, stored or printed out.

Comfort and time conservation- These digital radiography procedure are not only comfortable but also help in a more clearer picture with better visualization of minute details and, it also conserves time of both dentist and patient.

Approach towards preventive aspect- Tiny changes therefore can be caught earlier with required necessary measures.

Radiation exposure- In fact, digital X-rays use up to 90 percent less radiation than film X-rays. While conventional dental X-rays are relatively safe, digital radiography is an excellent option. 

Diagnostic proficiency- Unlike film, digital X-ray images can be enhanced to assist in making a precise diagnosis. Images can be magnified, sharpened, colorized, or displayed as a negative. These software-controlled enhancements optimize the image but do not alter the data - you can always “go back” to view the original image. Digital tools such as these are built right into the software that drives the digital radiography system.

Easy Storage- Digitized data also can be preserved lifelong so changes can be better compared and appreciated, thereby helping in precision in the treatment rendered.

Green dentistry- A step towards green dentistry, acceptance of this newer technique is also increased as they are environment friendly, because digital radiography is without the use of harmful, chemicals like developer and fixer used in processing the film.

Transferring records- The advantages are many but the comfort is also when a second opinion is required digital image can be transferred quickly and without any distortion.

Patients perceive the acquisition and incorporation of new technologies as dentists caring enough to provide them with the best diagnostic treatment available. 

Dental sealant - A Caries Fighter

Dental caries should be managed as an infectious disease by assessing risk factors; avoiding operative intervention as far as possible. 

The chewing surfaces of the teeth have tiny grooves, known as fissures where food can get stuck and where it is hard to clean. Thorough brushing and flossing helps remove food particles and plaque from the smooth surfaces of teeth, but toothbrushes can't reach all the way into the depressions and grooves to extract all food and plaque. While fluoride helps prevent decay and helps protect all the surfaces of the teeth, dental sealants add extra protection for the grooved and pitted areas. 

Sealants act like raincoats for your teeth. When the cavity-causing bacteria that live in everyone’s mouth meet leftover food particles, they produce acids that can create holes in teeth. These holes are cavities. After sealant has been applied it keeps those bits of food out and stops bacteria and acid from settling on your teeth—just like a raincoat keeps you clean and dry during a storm. The decay will not spread, because it is sealed off from its food and germ supply.

 

There are several benefits to using sealants, including that they:

·         take a few minutes to apply

·         do not cause pain

·         do not need injections

·         do not need to be drilled

·         do not dissolve in saliva and are safe.

Having sealants put on teeth before they decay will also save time and money in the long run by avoiding fillings, crowns, or caps used to fix decayed teeth.

Dental sealants are a quick, easy, and relatively cheap (as opposed to the dentist bills you’ll accumulate for root canals) solution for preventing cavities.  Kids are notoriously bad brushers and tend to ignore the problem areas in the back of the mouth that lead to cavities and decay, making them ideal recipient for sealants. Dental sealants can be clear, white or have a slight tint depending upon the dental sealant used. Dental sealants can last many years. If necessary, it is also possible to place a new dental sealant on the tooth. Dental sealants only protect the surface area that they are placed on. Sealants can also be used over areas of early decay to prevent further damage to your tooth.