Digital vs Film Dental X-Rays: What Changed and Why It Matters
dentaltechnology
How digital dental X-rays differ from older film X-rays, from lower radiation and instant images to easier sharing with insurers and specialists.
Many people remember dental X-rays as bulky film squares and a wait for development. Digital X-rays have changed that experience in several practical ways.
How film X-rays worked
Film X-rays used small pieces of film that had to be processed in a darkroom or developer. That meant waiting, and sometimes retaking an image that didn't come out clearly.
How digital X-rays work
A small digital sensor captures the image, and it appears on a screen within moments. Because the system is more sensitive, modern digital X-rays need less radiation than older film methods.
What's different for you
- Lower radiation: one digital image is about 0.001 mSv, though figures vary with equipment and technique.
- Instant results: we can review images right away.
- Bigger view: images can be enlarged so we can show you exactly what we see.
- Easy sharing: files can be sent securely to your insurer or a specialist.
- Less waste: no chemical processing is needed.
Do digital X-rays replace every other type?
Digital sensors are used for common images such as bitewings. For specific needs like implant planning, we may use Cone Beam 3D imaging, only when it's needed.
See more about the equipment we use on our technology page, and compare doses in are dental X-rays safe.