A dental radiography system is a device that uses electromagnetic radiation to capture images of the mouth for diagnostic and treatment purposes. There are several types of dental radiography systems, including:
- Dental X-ray generators: Can take X-rays of one or more teeth, such as bitewing X-rays
- Panoramic X-ray systems: Provide a complete view of the entire dental structure
- Cephalometric X-ray systems: A type of dental radiography system
- CBCT scanners: Cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) imaging is becoming the standard of care for many dental practices
Dental radiography systems can be traditional (film) or digital (digital sensors and a computer). Digital dental X-rays use less radiation than traditional X-rays and are more eco-friendly because they don't require chemicals or film to process images.
Here are some other things to know about dental radiography:
Digital imaging
The same image can be used for different diagnostic purposes. For example, lighter images are used to detect marginal bone loss, while darker images are used to detect caries.
DICOM standards
These standards provide a common method for transmitting medical radiographic images.
Canary system
This optical to thermal energy conversion technology uses infrared laser light to transmit information about tooth densities.

