Endodonti av Lars Polhagen
High Tech Endodontics - Digital
X-Ray
Through my career as an endodontist I have often felt I had a need for finding and
developing new ways in order to achieve a better, quicker and more rational performance
within endodontics. However, using various High Tech facilities has turned out very
challinging and fruitful.Gradually I will bring up for discussion other High Tech concepts
like, e.g., the use of microscop in surgical - and traditionel endodontics, ultrasound,
apex locators, laser etc. As to digital X-ray there is now on the market several makes and
concepts. Most people are using a CCD-plate (sensor) which is connected to the computer
with a cable. This means that you get the X-ray image on your screen - in the very moment
it is exposed ! An alternative to these systems is using a image plate which may be
regarded as an "electronical" X-ray film. After exposing it is developed/scanned
and shown in 30 seconds on your screen.
Since 3-4 years I am using a system with a CCD-plate. This has the decisive advantage of
showing the image directly on the screen, the promtness is important to me. However, it
might be considered a disadvantage that the CCD plate so far is not as large as the normal
X-ray film, and this goes for most of the makes. Larger sensors are now appearing on the
market and in some cases they are available already.
Advantages
Improved and more effecient diagnostic technique Essential prerequisite for the
development of new therapeutic and methodological alternatives Time saving at treatment of
patients and within administration. The nurses can thus take on more qualified tasks.
Better contact with the patient - informative. Easier, quicker and more fruitful
communication with colleagues. IT in various forms becomes easier to use. Economically
advantageous. Better radiation hygiene - environmental aspects.
Disadvantages, difficulties
A period of learning and adjustment It takes time to adjust yourself to "digitally
thinking" - but this might be of good use in other situations. The sensor cable is no
disadvantage; to start with it might be considered a difficulty but in the long run it may
turn out an advantage. The smaller sensor size has meant a challange to work with the
greatest precision and to be accurate about the setting etc. - quite pedagogic! On
spending too long exposing time, the CCD plate becomes satiated and cannot be modified any
longer blckness and contrast.
Conclusion
Digital X-ray is an excellent tool within High Tech Endodontics.
