Flexible Phosphor Sensors: The Apex of Digital Radiography
Exceptional clarity with the convenience of a digital workflow
In 2006, it became clear that it was time to replace my film radiography. Insurance companies were no longer returning my film x-rays, which meant I was having to take an extra set and expose my patients to extra radiation. Going digital had become a no-brainer.
The question was, what type of digital radiography to use? To many dentists, going with rigid sensors was also a no-brainer, but not to me. As I had looked at periapical radiographs sent to me over the years by referring dentists who used rigid sensors, I was appalled at how often the apex was not on the x-ray. As someone who has served as an expert witness for 27 years, developing a treatment plan without accurate periapical images is a clear violation of the standard of care. Moreover, as a patient I found rigid sensors to be extremely uncomfortable.
I went to my alma mater, New York University, and asked the chairman of radiology for his advice. He suggested that I go to the Air Techniques booth at the upcoming Greater New York Dental Meeting and check out their ScanX® PSP system, also known as flexible phosphor sensors. Once there, I first stopped at the booth of a major rigid sensor manufacturer and asked to see periapical radiographs. I looked at hundreds, and not one showed the apex.
I then went to the Air Techniques booth. I asked if I could place a sheathed ScanX flexible phosphor sensor in my mouth, and I found it to be exceptionally comfortable. I then asked to see samples of periapical radiographs, and the apex was clearly visible in every one. I ordered a ScanX unit on the spot, and I have been using it without a single problem ever since. Beyond that, I love not having to store films in file cabinets or deal with the mess, cost, and storage of chemicals.
I recently added the new, ultra-compact ScanX Swift, which is ideal for chairside use. As with my ScanX Classic unit, the exceptional clarity and the ability to digitally adjust the radiographs make it easy to obtain “informed consent” from my patients. They appreciate seeing exactly what the problem is, and why treatment is being recommended. And I appreciate the superior image size, the ease of placement, and the fact that an image is on my monitor within seconds of exposing the radiograph.
Flexible phosphor sensor technology was clearly the best option for me to go digital. If you do your due diligence, you might well find the same is true for you.
About the Author
Dr. James G. Kouzoukian received his DDS degree from New York University College of Dentistry in 1984 and is in private practice in Forest Hills, New York. He has more than 27 years experience as an expert witness and consultant to the legal profession in all dentistry-related matters, such as personal injury, worker and crime victim compensation, and professional liability cases. Dr. Kouzoukian is an early adopter of flexible phosphor sensor technology and will be giving seminars on digital imaging this year in multiple locations throughout the United States.
* Data from an independent, non-profit, dental education and product testing foundation
For more information, contact:
Air Techniques Corporation
1-800-AIR-TECH
www.airtechniques.com
key takeaways
• Excellent digital radiography. Get 100% of the images you want, even for patients with small mouths, large tori, or gag reflexes
• Exceptional diagnostic clarity. Up to 38%* more image area—capture every root tip (even on maxillary canines)
• Unmatched patient comfort. Flexible, cordless phosphor sensors for easy, comfortable placement, even for third molars
• Convenient chairside workflow. Easy for your assistant; efficient for you
• Smart investment. Less expensive than rigid sensors (and no insurance needed)
