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By
Lorne Lavine, DMD
For dentists who are contemplating adding new technology to their
practice, the choices can be overwhelming. It’s impossible to pick
up a dental journal today without being bombarded with ads and articles
about the latest practice management software, digital imaging or
intraoral photography advances. In the past few years, technology
has exploded, especially in the field of digital radiography. While
the advantages of this new technology are clear, dentists who are
contemplating this expensive investment should also be aware of
the potential shortcomings as well.
The
Pros:
1. Reduced radiation - While
not a concern for many dentists, this is certainly a selling point
for patients. Most digital radiography systems require just a small
fraction of the exposure time needed for traditional film.
2. Faster - For the direct sensor
systems, images appear on the screen instantaneously. Even the slower
phosphor plate systems can develop a periapical radiograph in about
one minute, which is still significantly faster than the five minutes
it takes to develop traditional film. For routine hygiene patients,
timesaving is not necessarily important, but the advantages for
endodontic and other procedures can be quite significant.
3. Co-Diagnosis - By placing
a large image of the x-ray in front of patients, they are now included
in the diagnosis of their own dental problems. Most dentists who
are using the technology in this manner will see an increase in
treatment plan acceptance.
4. No chemicals - Few dentists
will be upset about no longer needing to deal with messy chemicals,
jammed processors, lost films, MSDS sheets, etc.
5. Image manipulation - Most digital
x-ray systems come with software that allows the user to manipulate
the image through the use of color, 3-D enhancement and other techniques
that will aid the dentist in diagnosing problems - often at an earlier
stage than film would allow.
The
Cons:
1. Cost - There is no way around
it, these digital systems are expensive! The overall cost will depend
on several factors: whether the dentist opts for direct sensor versus
phosphor plate, number of operatories to equip, and whether the
system is networked, making it accessible from other points in the
office. In addition, it will require computers in the operatories,
interface cards, computer monitors for patient viewing and a host
of other minor accessories. Furthermore, the sensors for direct
sensor systems are very costly and do not come with guarantees for
replacement.
2. Comfort - This applies more
to direct sensors than the phosphor plate sensors, but the average
direct sensor is quite a bit thicker than a traditional film x-ray.
Some patients will have trouble tolerating these larger devices
and it will require the dentist and staff to learn the proper way
to position the sensor for maximum comfort.
3. Network requirements - As
with most new technologies, once the office becomes accustomed to
it, everyone will want access. There is nothing wrong with a dentist
choosing to start slowly by having a digital x-ray in just one operatory.
But in a busy office, having access to the images from multiple
locations will be a huge advantage. It will enable the front office
staff access to the x-rays for insurance claims while allowing the
doctor access to images from the operatory. This will require proper
set-up of a computer network, not to mention the daily backup of
sensitive data.
4. Learning curve - Many dentists
who purchase these systems fail to recognize the importance of training
for themselves and their staffs on proper usage. Allowing the staff
to feel comfortable with the new system is crucial to full acceptance
and this learning curve can take some time to overcome.
Overall,
digital x-rays can be a benefit to almost any dental practice. However,
dentists should be aware of the cost, time and energy necessary
to properly use these systems before they make this investment.
In general, the advantages of installing new technology in your
practice are definitely important (but expensive) choices. Researching,
getting feedback and obtaining an overall idea of potential investments
will make your decision easier.
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