Digital Sensors - Not All Are Created Equal

By John P. James, DDS

When I switched from traditional film to digital radiographs, I looked forward to all of the benefits of digital imaging. I didn’t realize then that not all digital imaging systems are created equal.

My first digital sensors were a popular brand, which we upgraded to their newer version. None of the sensors seemed to produce the sharp images I was accustomed to with well-made film. After that, I switched to cheaper sensors. Unfortunately, my patients reported discomfort because of the sensor’s edges, and the image quality was not improved. After a few months, still unsatisfied, I thought back to the DEXIS™ images I had received from my referring colleagues. That was when I purchased a DEXIS™ Platinum system.

My staff and I have finally achieved the superior image quality I had admired from my DEXIS-using colleagues. This translates to better diagnostics. For example, when I saw interproximal decay on the occlusal surface, many times, I could not see it on the radiograph. I would re-appoint the patient, numb them up, open the cavity, and take a photograph to document the decay that was through the enamel. With my sharper DEXIS images, I can see this, and I have the opportunity to catch dental issues sooner. I also can use ClearVu™ to make these excellent images even sharper.

DEXIS Platinum is a single-size sensor. This very interesting size works in all situations and with all patients.

The Platinum sensor has several other advantages, in my opinion. In the past, we had to juggle several sensor sizes. DEXIS Platinum is a single-size sensor. This very interesting size works in all situations and with all patients.

Our patients report less discomfort now. My staff and I have had our images taken and have felt the difference. This is helpful, especially in difficult- to-reach areas, such as for endodontics on a first bicuspid or a cuspid. We also have fewer retakes than with the other systems. The holder system is very sensible, logical and easy to use.

Organization is easy, fast and efficient. I had no problems importing images from my previous systems to my DEXIS software. Now the X-rays are situated next to the chart, and I can choose to display any of the images I want on one screen. I can see all of a patient’s bitewings for several years in a row with one click on one screen. With my older imaging software, I had to click bitewings first and then search down a long list. I could only look at one set at a time or click back and forth.

I am hoping that dentists who are conservative and cautious, but also frustrated with their present system, will make the change. I predict they will be delighted. It is a huge improvement in diagnostic imaging quality, which is a big deal for any dental practice.

About the Author: Dr. James graduated from the University of California, San Francisco with his Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 1990. He runs a state-of-the-art private practice, Klondike Dental Care, in West Lafayette, Indiana, where his focus is to provide comfortable care that help patients maintain healthy and attractive smiles.