The Advancements of X-rays
EAGAN MINNESOTA- Traditional X-rays may eventually become a thing of the past, now that 3D imaging is being used more often in conjunction with several types of orthodontic treatment.
X-rays are a great tool for diagnosing problems with the teeth and jaws, says Dr. Jennifer Eisenhuth, an Eagan pediatric orthodontist.
Your teeth and the bone surrounding them are dense, meaning X-rays are easily absorbed. However, the gums and cheeks aren’t as dense, so the X-ray passes through and makes them appear dark on film. Teeth show up lighter on film and fillings, which are denser than the teeth, show up as a solid white color. Cavities show up as dark patches in a light tooth, according to the Colgate website.
Advancements in X-rays have not only made it easier for the orthodontist, but also children going through treatment.
The risk of overexposure to radiation is lowered by reducing the radiation that strays from the machine and also by limiting the beam to a small area. This process is called collimation, which means the X-ray machine directs the beam through a column lined with lead and out a tiny opening, according to the Colgate website.
Other advancements include the introduction of digital X-rays. Studies have shown that this form of technology reduces the risk of radiation by at least 80 percent. Digital X-rays use sensors instead of the traditional film, which can be bulky and uncomfortable for a child.
The developing time is immediate compared to hand developing X-ray film, which could take a minimum of 5 minutes to fully process. Taking away the harsh chemicals used to develop traditional film also is better for the environment, since they have to be disposed of appropriately after use.
“Our pediatric orthodontics office uses the digital X-ray technology because of its many benefits, and we want our patients to be comfortable through this process,” says Dr. Eisenhuth.
3D imaging is becoming a fast favorite among orthodontic labs that specialize in the treatment process of Invisalign and Incognito braces. This imaging allows the lab and orthodontist to picture the entire alignment process from beginning to end.
3D imaging enables orthodontists to add depth and give their diagnostic images the power and accuracy they need, according to the OrthoDent 3D Imaging website.
What is 3D Imaging?
The 3D ConeBeam Imaging system is a digital X-ray scanner mounted on a rotating arm. I’s called “ConeBeam” because the scanner projects X-rays in a carefully controlled, cone-shaped beam, according to University of Connecticut Health Center website.
For practices that have the 3D imaging in-house, the patient sits in a chair while the scanner moves in a complete circle around the head. Usually this takes about 10 seconds, and immediately transfers to the computer. This differs significantly from a traditional X-ray that must be developed by hand.
“Our office benefits greatly from this type of imaging because we are able to ship the impressions and digital X-rays to our lab and they send us a 3D computerized image, which lets us see the end results,” says Dr. Eisenhuth.
The office also benefits from this type of X-ray with other forms of orthodontics. Braces, such as the Incognito lingual brackets, include 3D imaging in the treatment planning process.
“For treatment planning purposes, this type of imaging gives us a clear idea of how teeth will move and fit together during and after the treatment,” says Dr. Eisenhuth.
Most children’s orthodontists would agree that 3D imaging and digital X-rays help keep orthodontic treatment running smoothly.
“While working on our Invisalign and Incognito cases, the 3D imaging has helped our treatment plans tremendously,” says Dr. Eisenhuth. “When the patients are able to see their end result before treatment even begins, it encourages them to stick with the plan.”
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