The deal on digital: the status of radiographic imaging.

In the very near future, dentists will perform image acquisition, whether clinical or radiographic, using solid-state detectors or photostimulable phosphor plates. In addition, clinical still camera images, video camera images, and x-ray images will all be digital. At this time, medical imaging is almost completely digital and consumers are actively seeking digital products. Because information in a digital format can be stored, processed, and transmitted easily and efficiently by computers, traditional imaging receptors, such as conventional radiographic film, is slowly being replaced. This article will outline the various digital receptors and systems available for x-ray imaging, and discuss the impact of this paradigm shift on the dental professional.