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Lorne
Lavine, DMD has practiced periodontics and implant dentistry since 1992.
He is an A+ Certified Computer Repair Technician as well as Network+
certified. He is president of Dental Technology Consultants, which assists
dentists in all phases of technology integration in the dental practice.
He has written for Dentistry Today and is a frequent contributor to
New Dentist magazine. He can be reached via his web site at www.dtc4u.com,
by email at dtc@dtc4u.com or toll
free at 877-851-0297.
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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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