Digital dental radiography is a major technological advancement that has transformed how we diagnose and treat dental problems. Unlike traditional film radiographs that used chemical development, digital radiographs capture the image directly on an electronic sensor. This innovation offers enormous advantages in terms of image clarity, radiation reduction, and clinical convenience. At Longchamp Dental Clinic, we have invested in the most modern digital radiography equipment to ensure the best diagnostics for our patients.
Digital radiographs offer several advantages over film radiographs. First, radiation exposure is reduced by approximately 80%, which is important protection particularly for children and pregnant women. Second, images are instantly available without need for chemical development, which accelerates diagnosis. Third, images can be enlarged, modified in contrast, and analyzed by computer for better diagnostic accuracy. Fourth, digital radiographs can be easily sent to specialists or archived digitally without taking physical space.
There are several types of digital dental radiographs. Periapical radiographs capture the entire tooth and surrounding bone. Bitewings show contact surfaces between teeth and are ideal for detecting interproximal cavities. Panoramic radiographs (orthopantomograms) capture entire jaws in a single image and are useful for overview. 3D scanners (cone-beam CT) provide complete three-dimensional reconstruction of the jaw and are particularly useful for implant planning.
Digital radiographs allow detection of many dental problems invisible on clinical examination alone. Cavities between teeth (interproximal) can only be seen on radiographs. Bone loss due to periodontitis is visible on radiographs and helps assess disease severity. Retained root tips after tooth extraction can be identified. Apical infections (abscesses) appear as dark areas around the root. For patients with implants, radiographs help evaluate bone integrity around the implant.
A common question is radiation safety. Dental radiographs use extremely low radiation levels. A digital periapical radiograph exposes the patient to approximately 0.5 microsieverts, which is equivalent to a fraction of radiation received daily from natural sources. Even panoramic radiographs (larger) expose to only 1-2 microsieverts. For comparison, a chest radiograph exposes to 20-100 microsieverts. The diagnostic benefits of dental radiography far outweigh the minimal risks of radiation, particularly with digital technology that reduces exposure by 80%.
For complex cases like implant planning, impacted tooth extraction, or pathology evaluation, we use CBCT scanner (cone-beam computed tomography). This equipment produces complete 3D reconstruction of the jaw, allowing precise visualization of bone density, anatomy, and critical structures like nerves. CBCT images allow more precise surgical planning and reduce potential complications.
All digital radiographs are securely stored in our digital archives with password protection. Images are shared with other professionals only with your consent. At Longchamp Dental, we strictly adhere to data privacy and security standards to protect your sensitive medical information.
At your first visit to Longchamp Dental or during complete evaluation, we generally perform panoramic radiographs for overview. Depending on your clinical situation, we may recommend periapical radiographs of specific regions. If you are considering implants, a CBCT scan may be recommended. Contact us at +212 5 22 36 13 24 or +212 6 61 41 95 95 (WhatsApp) to discuss your radiological needs.
Français