Do digital x-rays use as much radiation as traditional x-rays?

Spoiler alert: No, digital x-rays can reduce radiation exposure by over 80%! This is one of the many reasons we choose to use digital x-rays in our Seminole and St. Petersburg orthodontist offices. 

Digital x-rays have a number of advantages – some of which may surprise you. They use less radiation and produce more accurate x-ray images, but they’re also kinder to the environment and kinder to human bodies.

Here’s everything you need to know about the advantages of digital x-rays and how Dr. Insoft and Dr. Hurst use them to bring our patients’ smiles to life:

What are x-rays used for?

X-rays are taken so that your orthodontist can get a clear view of your teeth and the underlying bone structures. Without x-rays, we wouldn’t be able to see the roots of the teeth and structure of the jaw bones – which is fundamental in creating your personalized treatment plan. 

The Advantages of Digital X-rays (Vs. Traditional)

1. Digital x-rays minimize radiation exposure.

Digital x-ray machines reduce radiation exposure by more than 80%, compared to traditional radiographs! Digital x-ray machines are more sensitive than traditional x-ray machines, which requires significantly less radiation to produce an image.

Radiation exposure can damage DNA in our cells and increase the risk of various cancers, which is why it’s important to minimize exposure when possible. Digital x-ray radiation dose is minimal and not considered dangerous to your health. 

2. Digital x-rays produce high-quality images and are more accurate than traditional radiography.

Digital x-rays generate clear images with high resolution and great contrast. High-quality images help your orthodontist examine bone structures, teeth and gum tissue, spot orthodontic problems and complete a comprehensive exam.

Your orthodontist can magnify images, zoom out, rotate or adjust the contrast if necessary to create a precise treatment plan that considers all aspects of your smile. 

Digital images have powerful digital sensors that produce high-resolution images.

Traditional x-rays, on the other hand, are processed on film, which doesn’t allow for these image-enhancing tools or level of precision.

3. Digital x-rays allow for convenient electronic storage.

Digital x-rays are easy to store, access and transfer (if necessary.) Electronic storage is a lot more convenient than physical storage, and it reduces the chances of x-rays being damaged, lost or misplaced. If you ever need your x-rays sent to your dentist or other practitioner, we can deliver them electronically in only a few minutes!

4. Digital x-rays are environmentally friendly.

Digital imaging is kinder to the environment, because it eliminates unnecessary chemicals and waste from traditional x-ray film processing. To process an x-ray image, a number of chemicals are washed over the film. These chemicals then become toxic waste, which is notorious for destroying habitats in the environment. 

Digital x-rays don’t require chemicals or paper materials to process images. Instead, they’re downloaded to our database, stored electronically and printed only if necessary.

5. Staying modern and up-to-date is important to us.

At Insoft & Hurst Orthodontics, we pride ourselves on being a modern practice with experienced orthodontists who use advanced techniques and technologies. We’re always looking for new ways to improve our patient experience and make your treatment process more comfortable and efficient!

Throughout all of our treatments and technologies, we choose to use the best for our patients.

Still have questions about digital x-rays?

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions! Our orthodontists are some of the most experienced in the area. We’re more than happy to discuss any of our treatments or technologies.

If you’re looking for a top orthodontist in St Petersburg, or Seminole, we’d love to meet you! Request a complimentary exam for you or your child today.