What Are The Main Dental X-ray Imaging Systems?

What Are The Main Dental X-ray Imaging Systems?

There are four main types of dental radiography systems: dental x-ray generators, panoramic x-ray systems, cranial x-ray systems, and CBCT scanners.

Intraoral x-ray systems: Dental x-ray generators take x-rays of one or more teeth. 

There are different types of radiographs or x-rays:

1.Bitewing x-rays: Very common and often done as a preventative exam. They can be used to identify cavities between teeth or below the gum line, as well as sources of potential dental discomfort.

2.Periapical radiographs: Periapical radiographs take x-rays of the entire tooth (rather than just part of the tooth as with bitewing radiographs), and can even go slightly beyond the root. This type of radiograph is used when a problem with the root tip or the jawbone is suspected.

3.Occlusal radiographs: Occlusal radiographs allow us to see a small portion of the tooth. This allows the dentist to see the full development and position of the tooth, understand why certain teeth have not yet erupted, or identify abnormal teeth. This type of radiograph can also detect cysts, abscesses, cleft palates, or fractures.

Panoramic X-ray Systems: Panoramic X-rays take 2D images of the entire tooth (front view).

Cephalometric X-ray Systems: Cephalometric X-rays take 2D images of the entire side of the head (side view).

CBCT (or Cone Beam) Scanners: CBCT scanners take digital images of the bone structure and 3D reconstructions. Depending on the model, the device can capture larger or smaller teeth and surrounding bone. It is important to note that this device uses a much lower radiation dose than a conventional CT scan, which uses a fan-shaped radiation beam, also called a “fan beam”.

Today, there are many hybrid devices that are capable of performing more than one type of extraoral radiography:

Panoramic and Cephalometry

Panoramic and CBCT

Panoramic, Cephalometry, and CBCT

What features should I look for when choosing a dental X-ray generator?

There are several aspects to consider when choosing a dental power supply unit, such as size and configuration, power, and collimator size.

Size and configuration: Depending on the available space in the office, there are three different sizes and configurations to choose from:

Wall-mounted X-ray units: When using these machines, it is important to check the arm length.

Wheeled X-ray units: Sometimes a chair can also be integrated.

Portable X-ray units: It is important to know their weight.

Power: The power of the device determines the type of image (digital, analog, or both) and the exposure time required. Dental X-ray generators are high-powered, ranging from 30 kW to 100 kW, which can produce images quickly. The average power used is between 50 kW and 70 kW.

Collimator size and adjustability: The collimator limits the size of the X-ray incident field and the maximum image size generated.