Diagnostic imaging has undergone an explosion in technology with the advent of computerized imaging, and the production of digital radiographic images is rapidly replacing film/screen radiography.

Digital Dental Radiography offers early detection and preventive services. Advanced image manipulation and analysis, for example, allows us to detect early stages of periodontal (gum) disease through recognition of minimal bone level changes, or use digital subtraction to evaluate results of a previously rendered treatment (either therapeutic or restorative).

In the area of restorative and cosmetic dentistry, digital radiography is mostly effective in detection and diagnosis of decay recurring below existing restorations or evaluation of faulty crown and filling margins. Additionally, its image manipulation features allows us to examine dental structures (such as length of the root, health of the periodontal support, periapical pathology or even position of the maxillary sinus) before designing, fabricating and placing a functional dental restoration.

The need for computer-assisted diagnosis is gaining importance due to continuing demand for higher quality of care. The main goal of CADx (or “pattern recognition”) is to use computer analysis to clarify complex mechanisms of decision-making. Digital imaging already offers numerous benefits to dental providers. The ongoing improvement and widespread availability will further advance image acquisition and manipulation, allow for a tree-dimensional reconstruction (instead of two dimensional display) of dental structures, which is impossible with traditional radiography. Digital radiography, by providing a variety of decision support systems and computer-assisted diagnosis, enhances decision-making process. Future technology will enable automatic feature recognition that may be characteristic of a certain condition, thus aid a doctor in diagnosis and treatment.