Digital Dental Radiography

Radiographs can help evaluate and diagnose oral diseases and conditions and support treatment planning. A clinical examination, patient history and review of prior images should come before deciding whether an image is needed.

Digital imaging still uses X-rays, and exposure accumulates from multiple sources over time. Image quality also cannot be improved safely by simply increasing the dose to hide image noise, a problem known as exposure creep.

Digital radiography replaces chemical film processing with electronic capture. It enables efficient sharing and avoids the silver and processing chemicals associated with film development.

A digital image can be viewed and shared efficiently, but taking one is still justified by a clinical question. The purpose is to support diagnosis, planning or management, rather than to perform routine screening before a clinical examination.

Dental imaging contributes a minor amount to total exposure, yet the benefit of an image should be weighed against X-ray exposure. Updated selection recommendations emphasise choosing imaging after examination and according to the patient’s needs.